Let’s move on to the motor installation. The Genetic uses a clamping cam-type motor mount. To install the motor, the first thing we have to do is take it apart.

I removed the cam and clamp.

Here’s the Novak Club system with 17.5 motor. This was also generously provided by Novak for the cause. I’ve never seen one of these in person before this, but the concept was always promising. It’s an entry level brushless combo geared at spec racing (no esc boost, etc). The complete system as shown retails for around $120.

Upon opening, it has a note that it includes a FREE glitch buster! The value just keeps getting better with this little guy.

And yes, it is LITTLE. I couldn’t believe how small it was when I opened it up. The battery connector is almost bigger.

Glitch Buster as promised.

The motor ships in a plastic tube.

Then of course you have the support stuff, double sided tape, decals, zip ties etc.

The whole deal is now unboxed ready to install.

First I figured out which side of the cam went up, and mounted it to the motor so that the motor wires were also facing upwards.

Line it up and insert the included motor screws.

I then slid on the pinion gear and the installed the cam. This style motor mount, the gear mesh is adjusted by slightly rotating the angle of the cam in the mount. I got the mesh to where I felt comfortable with it and reinstalled the top part of the mount.

All buttoned up. Now we have power and steering.

The Genetic comes with foam inserts that you have to glue together.

I pulled them all out and glued them up and let them dry.

While those were drying I moved on. Time to install the Novak Club esc.

I first attached the sensor wire and zip tied it out of the way.

I then connected the 3 motor wires.

Then zip tied those out of the way. On a car this small, wire management is hugely important, so having somewhat of a plan on where you want to put stuff is ideal.

I then secured the capacitor to the sensor wire so it wasn’t flopping around. I also mounted the on/off switch to the servo.