Traxxas TRX-4m detailed review with indoor and outdoor test - Almost perfect but with a flaw

[@RCReviewChannel]

Finally available at Amainhobbies - alnk.to/6IBGrWy

[@GNX157]

Francis, concerning your cons, you didn’t mention or discuss that this model has 3 different modes of operation. These may have changed your feeling on how it crawls. Sport Mode is for all-around driving, or Trail Mode for smooth drag braking on steep descents. Lastly, for a smooth scale look while creeping over technical terrain, Crawl Mode applies full brakes the instant the throttle is released and allows drivers to continue through to reverse without a second push on the trigger. Hope this helps and please let us know your input after you reevaluate using this new info.

[@lifer86]

The more I see of the TRX-4m the more I want one. It looks like a lot of vehicle for a little money. These are going to make amazing Christmas gifts, and should hopefully get a lot of new people into the hobby.

[@RCReviewChannel]

Can't go wrong for sure.

[@sloanketteringgg]

You can't go wrong with these, I've had mine for nearly a week, and I've ran it every single day since I bought it. I can't say that about 90% of the rc's I have.😂

[@Mikey186971]

I started with this model.. and I felt in love with this that I bought the TRX6x6 I can wait to start using this !!

[@me-rn7jx]

@@Mikey186971 dang i got the traxxas new bronco 1/10th scale and then just got this videos lil bronco haha i think i like broncos maybe ill get the old ones too

[@rcjungle7645]

100 percent, these things are beautiful. I bought a Defender a month ago i was so impressed had to buy the Black Bronco, still waiting. 😉👍. Details are beatiful

[@V8chump]

Damn you’re good Francis. Finding issues I haven’t yet seen, weighing it on the corner scale, and overall honest pros and cons. Great video

[@ethanh3421]

He’s always been one of the most professional ones out there!

[@johnfaustus1]

Well, I'm pretty sure Traxxas (and Horizon) have most 'reviewers' on their payroll - so they will likely not talk about it. Another reason I appreciate this channel.

[@microrigs]

After having modified several SCX24s and FMSs, I think this is the ultimate Mini Crawler. I can't imagine where will we bring it with all the upgrades that the big brands will develop... Overdrive, brushless, brass, carbon... I'm having two for sure.

[@jmackinterests7809]

Got one yesterday. At first loved it. Everything he pointed out is on point. Especially the binding issue. Mine didn't at first, but has increased greatly. Hopefully find a fix this afternoon and share later. Update: Took it apart. Tiniest bit of grit in cvd, it will lock up at full turn or less like mine. Little bit of Blaster in the cvd,,, boom!! Smoothest it's been. Now to figure out how to keep grit out. Will keep the Blaster spray in the field.

[@johne8941]

Excuse me what is the CVD?

[@F103Pro10S]

What is blaster spray? Oil like wd40?

[@richieschmidt6225]

@@F103Pro10S He is talking about PB Blaster penetrating spray I believe.

[@DJCJ999]

Very few RC's are perfect out of the box but given the con's this scaler could have had? it's a win in my opinion.. the fact that it has some challenges means the mod community will be happy. I can't wait to see the hopped-up versions and belly draggers with custom body shells and crawler motors :D

[@owenisaacson724]

It binding while it turns is a deal breaker for me that shouldn’t be like that out of the box imo

[@meegssan5716]

Damn I thought traxxas woulda been the one out of the box that i wouldnt have to worry about upgrading too much

[@christianrodriguez8740]

⬆️😂😂😂

[@Vocuhhhloid]

So I have one and mine doesn’t bind, maybe it was an early edition issue, or maybe it’s a hit or miss thing

[@chaseparmentier5237]

​@@Vocuhhhloid same thing for me. I just bought one today and it doesn't bind

[@429supercj]

Mine only started binding after being in mud, I cleaned it and lubed it and it's perfect now

[@DadsRCGaragePNW]

Out of the box it’s super capable. Factory settings has walking speed. Hold esc for 2 flashes has trail mode with 50%drag break and hold for 3 flashes and you have crawl mode. Super cool. My only grip is the pro scale light kit don’t do turns when your turning. But will flash hazards on a light setting.

[@RCReviewChannel]

Much appreciated tips!

[@ML-cz8td]

Very nice little truck! I'm really hoping they release a 1979 Bronco body for this, that would really seal the deal for me!

[@RCReviewChannel]

Good point there. That would be legit.

[@parismerriam1090]

I got the Bronco and the Defender. The light kit is awesome and easy to install. Thanks for the video.

[@NANNIRC]

How mani times in my comments I told that small scale vehicles need oil dampers! And now here they are from stock. Great Traxxas!! Ciao

[@adrian15041994]

About the shocks: I recently got oil shocks for my scx24 bronco(highly modded: Komodo, mostly brass or aluminum, all metal gears) and they're pretty amazing once tuned right. Just wanted to point out that oil shocks for the scx24 do exist and can be had for less than $20. I'm really excited to see if there is real competition between the TRX4m and the SCX24s. Cheers!

[@Backyard_KLX]

Powerhobby, injora, hotracing, rcawd! So many options!

[@smcarmel]

Can always trust your channel to shoot us straight, and give us the pros and cons. Love the unbiased content keep it up! Looking forward to what you come up with for the fix for the binding. Hopefully we’ll see a vid on that!

[@michaeldorich4485]

You did another excellent review. I think this truck will be making a lot of appearances under Christmas trees next month. It appears to be a very good trail truck and for the price it's a bargain compared to other things out there. Many of the smaller scale trucks are priced higher and are not waterproof. I could see families taking these to a local park and having a great time. What a great little truck to have on vacation.

[@DMarko22]

First one to Adress the binding issue, at least for me after watching half dozen videos. Thanks for that!

[@Arturito2017]

I saw one and preordered without even watching vids. At that price it’s a gem.

[@pampoenne]

Bought the Defender in Dec 2023 and it has no binding issues at all.

[@thisishowiedewitt76]

I’ve been a big fan of your MTBR channel and videos. It’s kind of been exciting to see this channel surpass the other one. I’m very happy for you and I really enjoy the r/c content as well.

[@RCReviewChannel]

So cool huh? I have a new channel and it's gonna be even bigger than this one. kzbin.info/door/L6C8KA9FXxEuVa22Fkjh2Q I'm losing sleep though :)

[@Paul-wz1tm]

Our group started having comps set up for minis. Lots of fun.

[@80SWoods]

If the wheel bind at full turn is an issue, I can see Traxxas making a slightly shorter steering rod or shorter servo horn to reduce steering to from 45 to 42 degrees or whatever point it starts to bind.

[@paulclancy2404]

Or in trail mode don't have the grunt to turn at low throttle . All my crawlers need more throttle at full angle turn

[@80SWoods]

@@paulclancy2404 Maybe it frees up over time too as the steering knuckle wears in from use.

[@chrisredden3072]

Just ordered my first Trx4m tonight. They arrive Thursday. I got the Bronco (A51) for myself and the Defender (Orange) for my wife. She is new to the hobby and I’ve been out of it for several years.

[@RCReviewChannel]

His and hers TRX4m. You are a lucky man!

[@rcjungle7645]

New Defender added to the santa list, great review 👍

[@BUILTLIGHTWOUNDTIGHT]

Awesome video man! I finally cave'd and bought the black F-150 high lift. And a bearing kit, I don't have anything binding on it. I am in the process of removing the lift kit, so it will be a mini me to my TRX-4 F-150. Seriously considering buying a few more of these, for some testing 🤔

[@dustinnwallander6223]

I wasn't prepared for the 🔥 beat drop nice touch 👌

[@CookieManCookies]

The binding axle issue is a mechanical problem, but you could limit the servo range to prevent it from binding. I would take apart the axle and look at the slots, sometimes they put it into the hole instead of the slots on the wheel bearing.

[@netcruzer]

Oooh! I think you might have just shown why these have been delayed. 45 degree steering angle is awesome, but not if you can't move at full lock!

[@johndeere2510]

I've been looking into this a lot after I saw it announced. Fantastic video

[@Enfieldriderlongisland]

Great video. So we opened the shocks on 3 vehicles that are new and the shocks barely had any oil. All of 12 had just a few drops in each. We put 40 weight shock oil in the shocks and it is so much better.

[@phuongtran-oi8jz]

Sir I can tell you love your job. You’re the definition of “when you love your job you’re not even working”

[@RCReviewChannel]

You got that right. Much appreciated!

[@blackking7443]

There is 3 setting on the esc regular trail and crawl hold the button on the esc until the light blinks 1 for regular 2 for trail 3 for crawl modes

[@fishnrc294]

It’s interesting that you are the only one so far that has brought this major fault in the binding that should’ve been caught & fixed during testing. But I’m guessing something can be done about it. A trail truck or Crawler is not a move in a straight line RC wheels are very often turned all the way to navigate ruff terrain. Mine has been ordered had I seen this flaw I probably would’ve got the 1:18 scale Capra instead. It’s more $ & has flaws but nothing like this binding!

[@lesdmess845]

Great concise review as always. My grandkids will drive them in water & mud so this plastic and bushings design is perfect! I also understand the tires aren't glued so that makes it easier. I'm most bummed that my local hobby shops have had them but can't sell them till tomorrow!

[@user.is.loading]

Francis, concerning your cons, you didn’t mention or discuss that this model has 3 different modes of operation. These may have changed your feeling on how it crawls. Sport Mode is for all-around driving, or Trail Mode for smooth drag braking on steep descents. Lastly, for a smooth scale look while creeping over technical terrain, Crawl Mode applies full brakes the instant the throttle is released and allows drivers to continue through to reverse without a second push on the trigger. Hope this helps and please let us know your input after you reevaluate using this new info. Happy to Help ! ! !

[@TheAmericanUhate]

Maybe some aftermarket front drive shafts and a stronger motor/esc combo could held the steering binding, as well as the crawler gearing

[@lsear2905]

You can bind the vehicle to a standard Traxxas TQi remote, and then change DR and EPA settings. Hold down the SET button on the ESC as you plug in the battery to enter bind mode, and then turn on the TQI transmitter while holding the red SET button. Then you can do all the adjustments you want to avoid the binding issue. With that done, I'm really curious about the ability to use the 3rd channel switch to turn the lights on and off. I've done that with my Bandit, MST CMX and even my TT01, using a cheap $5 eBay lead plugged into the receiver before the lights.

[@keepingitonehundred]

Great Review! Can't wait to see your thoughts on the 1/18 Baby Capra

[@priceks]

At 9:51 the Traxxas Canyon Trail tires are shown, but I believe the Bronco comes with BFG’s (same size). Not a big deal for most, but I wish both the Bronco and Defender had the BFG’s.

[@jdsrcs8061]

Awe YEA Fran!!! Heading tomorrow morning when my local opens to pick up 2 of these and a ton of accessories!!!👍👍👍

[@AnthonySvt_]

The 150 for this vehicle is a steal! Especially for a traxxas product!! Going to pick up two of them up soon!!

[@valuerc2664]

It's a really competitive price, especially because lipo battery and charger are included

[@walterbryan1798]

Looks like a fantastic truck! Bigger and better than the more expensive Axial 1/24.

[@deathevokation1017]

I bought two TRX-4m for my kids, but I might be more excited than them. Great info in this video, and others I've watched on your channel. Thank you.

[@RCReviewChannel]

Glad I could help!

[@amatuloo]

Good review!….thanks. I’ll get one in the new year when they’ll be more readily available.

[@agray1980ag]

Adjusting steering end points is an easy fix to prevent binding in the steering.

[@DelightedCuttz]

Thanks for always giving full detailed honest reviews with demonstration!! YesYes!!

[@nursinggerm2009]

I think that the binding was already solved by the optional low transmission? My thought is that Binding exists in all off road applications when turning, but is usually 'hidden' by an off road rigs torque. If you dont think of this truck as the $150 truck advertised, but instead as a $180 truck with 2 swappable transmissions, then it still is a good value, and solves one, if not both, of the problems that you found. Thanks for the review, i have 2 on order.

[@MN_XJ_Mike]

Looking forward to this little rig. Thanks for the awesome review dude! Your videos are always my favorite

[@Fatt_Tony]

I've had one on order and I almost didn't get it. Thankfully a cancelation allowed me to still get one. Be warned, the traxxas upgrades are in just as much demand as the car is. Not much out there for some hobby shops just yet. I was told my light kit could take till January to get. We'll see. I can't wait to really try it out though now that I have the car.

[@nicka.9073]

Great review as always. Curious as to why the Panda Hobby 1/18 line wasn’t mentioned as a comparison. Panda has been offering oil filled shocks (stock) and (maybe?) better gearing for about two years now. Not a hardbody, but lexan body with switchable lights. Of course the parts support would go to Traxxas given their retail presence. Would love to hear your thoughts!

[@carloscabrera2838]

My panna hobby had the same issue in turning added ball-bearing kit big time Improvement . This truck is very similar to a panda hobby

[@DDRDK]

There is no balance plug to use your standard charger but the charger that is included does in fact balance charge the battery.

[@ronrichardson5653]

Upgrade the radio and receiver and then adjust steering endpoints to cure the binding.

[@frobs]

have been looking forward to your video, always a plessure to watch!

[@RCReviewChannel]

Much appreciated. I did not sleep and gave it a good test and edit effort

[@novass01]

Thanks for giving a honest and upfront review 👍🏾

[@falcondragonslayer]

I’m probably gonna get one of these for my first crawler. I don’t want to buy a $500 TRX-4 or anything nor do I need a 1/10 scale crawler. Although I do think Traxxas should make a middle-ground crawler. Maybe 1/14 scale, and around the $250-300 price range? Just to have more choices other than the 1/10 scale, $370-500+ TRX-4 & TRX-6 models and the 1/18 scale, $150 TRX-4M models.

[@BenSuzi1980]

why dont u compare it to a WPL C24-1 for example? I got plenty of WPL Trucks and they perform the same out of the box if not better. good video tho

[@robgoffroad]

The gearing isn't a huge deal esp since the low gear kit is $5. BUT... the binding of the axles IS a big deal since there's no fix yet, and I have a feeling it'll get (relatively) costly. Maybe somebody will find an easy fix... but for me, that kills it. I'll stick to my 1/10 stuff and the couple of SCX24's I already have.

[@RCReviewChannel]

Yeah, gearing is now ordered. Binding will have a solution hopefully.

[@bensnipes7288]

Yeah the binding sucks. Can you do servo EPA on the TX?

[@706Rocks]

We’ve had our two for a week and the binding isn’t nearly as bad as his was in the video. Both broncos. It does bind but my SCX24’s do also. I think that maybe the endpoints weren’t adjusted the same on all of them from the factory. I don’t know if there’s a way to manually adjust it. But don’t let that stop you from getting one. They’re worth the money 100%. The ESC is a little noisy but not as bad as version one of the SCX24 esc’s.

[@DadsRCGaragePNW]

I have the blue upgraded shocks running 50w oil and it seems to handle very nicely

[@RCReviewChannel]

50weight oil, nice. Do you iknow what the stock oil is?

[@DadsRCGaragePNW]

@@RCReviewChannel I’m going to assume and guess 20w being the tracxas shock upgrade kit came with that to put in. I just figured I’d try it. Truck is more planted feeling then with the stock shocks. Super happy with it so far.

[@winksley1981]

Man it looks like the fms 24 kick that into touch......wouldn't swap mine for that! Thanks for giving us the info

[@RCReviewChannel]

You bet

[@andrewrichey7374]

Appreciate you sharing as always, I think I’ll wait to get one till I see what happens about the steering . Will watch for the next one

[@nielsjuhr594]

Curious if it's down to their servo that isn't that good and a new one would help or if it's something in their esc? As mentioned, I'm waiting to see their next lineup of bodies. A Blazer, K10 or the older Bronco. Appreciate your review.

[@petejones6827]

nope its the fact that they designed the steering realllly close it may only be the bronco cause the wider square tires but at full steering angle the tires rub on the linkage so it binds it with some exstensions this will be gone but then you need to take off fender flares cause it barely misses them stock lol

[@dragonbrownies517]

I mentioned something about this on Traxxas' video on this little 1/18th scale. That it is going to sell like hotcakes and suggested they immediately start putting aftermarket bodies out. Blazer, c10, F150/100, Ram, Ramcharger, Comanche, Gladiator, XJ.

[@spoiler42ify]

Good review, thanks Francis. Man, that binding really sucks specially that it's a crawler/trail truck and you would need that 45deg steering to get you out of tight spots. Guessing EPA not adjustable w traxxas electronics? That's really a deal-breaker for me ....at least until someone comes up w a (simple) fix. Replacing the electronics to have EPA just makes this truck not worth it anymore....

[@RCReviewChannel]

EPA not adjustable as far as I know. Replacing the radio means the ESC has to be replaced as well and one loses the light module. Maybe bearings on the axles will help. It really needs a universal instead of CVD. Stonger motor and lower gearing will help.

[@valuerc2664]

​@@RCReviewChannel that radio on the outside looks identical to tq radio. I think Mark Santa Maria binded trx4m to another tqi radio. If factory radio is identical to tq, then I am sure it has epa, it's just difficult to adjust with one set button and led flashing

[@andrewleonberger7477]

I pre ordered a defender. I should have it this week. I m planning on chopping and modifying the body. I would like to see a review or private reply on the metal X braces and drive train. You have the most informative videos. Maybe a little more driving video. Just constructive criticism. Keep the knowledge coming.

[@donald2818]

No balance lead eh. How are we going to monitor our cells? The steering bind is a major blunder by Traxxas. I'm curious as to why it doesn't bind in your radius test early in the video.

[@classicrcheli9264]

as good as this might be, i still think the axial is better

[@funkafize]

Really hope they release as a kit to build like the TRX-4 Sport Kit. Want to build one together with my son. The bigger 1/10th just too serious a commitment for some father/son fun. Also US $150 is great if it were the $210 Australian at current exchange. Unfortunately they are $330 here (US $235).

[@dennisbuckley9569]

I am surprised Traxxas released this with the binding problem. Hopefully there is a easy fix.

[@kishascape]

I’m too into crawling so I like it can be used for regular off-road trailing with the stock gears.

[@petejones6827]

ive had mine for a min now got it super early give the tires a chance ive worn them in a little bit and the bronco stock tires work beter than my injora mud crawler tires. they grip raock really well only issue is in mud they clog up and dont clean out well but on dry THEY ARE AMAZING they are soft and conform to rocks and roots realllllllly well and dont sidewall almost at all being a squared tire ther is no foams but with the traxxas brass and beadlocks they feel and look like a really low PSI tire

[@Diamondbac]

Awesome review. Very candid and comprehensive.

[@scalebuildersguild]

Hey Francis, I believe your endpoints might need resetting. I've tested three different TRX4-M's and none of them do that. The binding you're seeing is from the servo going beyond the mechanical limit of the CVD. Here's how to reset it to factory settings: kzbin.info/www/bejne/q2arYWZjiKmBrbc

[@mfbengs1]

Yep mine does not have the locking issue.

[@RCReviewChannel]

Tire is hitting. Cvd is bone dry, brass bushing is binding and gearing delivers very little torque at low speed. The binding is very obvious on the rocks. I addressed these issues in another video and improvement is dramatic. Steering diameter is now smooth at 14 inches. Used to be jerky 18-in

[@mypassionrc-studioxd40lous66]

Excellent review, I think I'll be checking reviews on the FMS bronco First since I'm going to have to spend money anyway to fix the issues. I'll be looking forward to comparison reviews of the 2🙏✝️☮️

[@fishnrc294]

PLEASE get the new Element I’ve seen a few reviews but I’d love to see your review on it. I just ordered the New M Land Rover or Defender. I have the 1:10 scale Bronco so the other one will be a nice edition I love the look & scale items on the back of it. The new Element is very interesting & maybe a better platform then the Basecamp or Deadbolt.

[@hazysativa3045]

Despite all the pros the binding up is a major issue. There's no way to keep predictable throttle under steering.

[@moneymanjoe9639]

Im going in to buy some paint later for a VS-4 im building. Hope it's not in stock as I for sure will be getting one.

[@KnightsOutdoorAdventures]

Never been a big fan of traxxas electronics and motors those will be replaced eventually hopefully. that fixes the binding. Just picked up mine today with the trailer. Pulls the trailer well. One thing that bugged, was when I pulled it out the box I had to flip the motor wires in the connector as the polarity was wrong. Forward went backwards and backwards went Forward. Easy fix but shouldn't have needed fixing.

[@classicrcheli9264]

this channel is awesome!

[@RCReviewChannel]

Glad you think so!

[@WillieHawkins-e9r]

Awesome video! I am getting me one and my daughter one as well!

[@petejones6827]

the issue with the steering is the tires rub on the steeering link look at it better you will see put some hub exstensions on get a wider wheel base and you will get no bind

[@chevyon37s]

Losi just needs to rerelease the mini rock crawler pro. I realize it’s a little bigger than this but the popularity of the smaller rigs now would really let it thrive.

[@MrZyper123]

Wanna see Trx4M compare WPL Crawler

[@DustyFingersRC]

Great review covering the pro's and con's 👍

[@bcochener]

Haha, great steering angle… but that’s ‘points off’ on this rig apparently. Can’t believe that steering bind out of the box. Great overview as usual!

[@erood6190]

I will buy one because it's so cute. But the steering is disappointing. All my small scall crawlers lose power at full steering though. So not just a Traxxas problem.

[@06madmartin]

Great price good truck that bind is annoying just like my wpl I restricted my end points tho u loose turning radius. Wish had low gears in box tho hard too complain for 150 nice review man

[@vintagerc9173]

Great Review! Great little scale truck! A true 1/18 Scale hardbody crawler. Love the option parts and parts availability almost everywhere. 👍

[@JanTonovski]

4 wheel steering on one of these would be amazing!

[@flhandster4395]

Good video. Any battery adapters available yet that can be used with the other chargers? Thanks for sharing.

[@shockman8014]

The defects always overshadow any good points IMO especially when they are this ridiculous. I wanted one soon before this review but now I'm not sure I will ever buy one.

[@vipxj1]

Great video, is there EPA adjustment on the transmitter to turn back the steering to stop the binding?

[@SRCE2070]

Is it actually binding or is it browning out? You've got me curious on this, I'm wondering if the internal BEC isn't strong enough and with that gearing and the wheels turned there's just not enough juice? I'm still waiting on mine at the local hobby shop.

[@rickhunter1984]

Upgraded the motor with a 1/10 motor jk. Made me laugh and chuckle love it.

[@johnlujan8706]

Always good information 👌 oh, I'm on the list at my lhs. Thanks for another cool video.

[@MarcoRCArena]

I was about to buy this for my son but that binding is definitely a deal breaker: i'm not gonna sign up for a motor/ESC stir fry every week

[@robinson0700]

Danke für die Info's....und die Kritik an Lenkung und Motor / Crawlgeschindigkeit. Letzteres müsste man mit den Crawl Getriebe testen.

[@TomeOfKnowledge74]

I really appreciate this video. As my potential entry into crawling, I've been thinking about grabbing one. A couple times you mentioned the lack of foam in the tires. Would a soft foam be good or bad for crawling with this vehicle?

[@elpelon10501]

The best upgrade for that one in the future if traxxas wants to make better is get a upgrade transmission with low and high gearing that is gonna make really amazing!!!

[@Wicked03GT]

upgraded steering arms and a servo horn would likely solve the binding issues. there is flex in the stock plastic gear.

[@RCReviewChannel]

The main issue is there is no lube on the CVDs on some early models. Also the brass bushings cause binding at the extreme angles.

[@CrackedMB]

No steering d/r

[@petejones6827]

yo take off the rear wheel cover underneath you will find a nice surprise. A HEX WHEEL MOUNT! i was like no way i took it off to get more clearance in rear cause i was hitting it before bumper and i found a nice surprise a well designed spare tire mount

[@bigtreesfall]

I'd like to see this compared to the ROCHobby Katana. Based one what I see here, my Katana just might outperform this one.

[@RCReviewChannel]

I have that. Will compare.

[@bigtreesfall]

@@RCReviewChannel ... thank you!!

[@bcochener]

My upgraded Katana may beat these. -Stock katana needs some help too…