VFD Hurtz Dig: How It Works and Installation Basics
By Vanquish Products - Premium RC Crawler Kits & Accessories | Published: 2026-10-17
Category: How-to Guides
Learn how the Vanquish VFD Hurtz Dig works and follow step-by-step installation basics to add a reliable 3-position dig to your RC crawler.
Quick answer
The VFD Hurtz Dig is a 3-position dig unit for Vanquish VFD transmissions that locks the rear output independently, letting you pivot the rear axle on tight turns. Installation requires removing the transmission skid plate, swapping the rear output housing, and connecting a servo. The included servo mount simplifies the process, but you must set your transmitter endpoints correctly to avoid binding.
What the VFD Hurtz Dig Does
The VFD Hurtz Dig replaces the standard rear output cover on your Vanquish VFD transmission with a servo-actuated shifter. When engaged, it locks the rear driveshaft so the rear wheels drag while the front wheels pull, effectively shortening your turning radius on tight lines. The three positions are: unlocked (normal 4WD), front dig (rear locked), and full brake (both axles locked). Unlike some dig units, the rear output does not slide in and out, which keeps driveshaft length consistent and reduces binding.
Because the servo mount is already included in VS4-10 Pro and VS4-10 Chassis Kits, you may not need to purchase one separately. If you are building from a kit that lacks the mount, the unit still works with a standard servo horn and a suitable servo.
Tools and Parts You Will Need
You will need the VFD Hurtz Dig unit (available in multiple colors), a standard-size servo (metal gear recommended), a servo horn, a 1.5 mm hex driver, a 2.0 mm hex driver, thread locker (blue), and a receiver with an open channel. If your chassis does not include the servo mount, you will need to source one separately. The unit is compatible only with the Vanquish VFD transmission; it does not fit other transmissions.
Installation steps
- Remove the transmission skid plate and rear cover: Support the vehicle on a clean work surface. Remove the screws holding the transmission skid plate, then take off the stock rear output cover. Keep the screws organized—they are often different lengths. Checkpoint: Note the orientation of any gasket or O-ring before removal to avoid leaks.
- Install the dig housing and shifter mechanism: Place the VFD Hurtz Dig housing onto the transmission, aligning the shift fork with the internal shift collar. Use the supplied screws and apply a small drop of blue thread locker. Tighten evenly in a cross pattern to avoid warping the aluminum housing. Common mistake: Overtightening can strip the threads in the aluminum housing. Snug plus a quarter turn is sufficient.
- Mount and connect the servo: Attach the servo to the included mount (or your own) and connect the servo horn. Center the servo electronically before installing the horn. Adjust the linkage so the shifter moves smoothly through all three positions without binding. Set your transmitter endpoints to prevent over-travel. Checkpoint: With the servo powered, cycle through all three positions while rotating the rear driveshaft by hand. If you feel resistance, adjust the endpoints or horn position.
- Reinstall the skid plate and test: Replace the transmission skid plate and all chassis screws. Lower the vehicle to the ground and test the dig function in a controlled area. Engage front dig and verify that the rear wheels lock while the front wheels pull. Test full brake to confirm both axles lock. Final step: If the dig engages only partially, recheck servo endpoints and linkage geometry. A small adjustment often resolves the issue.
Product fact
- VFD Hurtz Dig: Vanquish Products Aluminum Hurtz Shifter 3 Position Dig for Vanquish Products VFD Transmission. Designed to increase the capability of your vehicle while maintaining maximum strength. Compatible with the Vanquish Products VFD Transmission. Rear output does not slide in and out, so driveshaft length is easier to manage. Servo mount is included in the Vanquish Products VS4-10 Pro kit and VS4-10 Chassis Kit. The fixed rear output simplifies driveshaft setup and reduces maintenance, while the included servo mount (in select kits) saves you from buying extra hardware.
