Traxxas TRX-4 1979 Ford F-150 Ranger XLT High Trail Edition 1:10 4WD Electric Trail Crawler, Black (+ TQi 4-ch, XL-5 HV, Titan 550, 2-Speed, Locking Diffs) TRX92046-4-BLK

Overview

The Traxxas TRX-4 1979 Ford F-150 Ranger XLT High Trail Edition is the ultimate ready-to-run RC trail crawler for UK enthusiasts who demand authentic scale replication combined with extreme all-terrain capability. This stunning 1:10 scale electric RC truck brings the classic 1979 Ford F-150 to life with meticulous detail and factory-installed modifications that elevate it above standard TRX-4 models. Whether you're a seasoned RC basher exploring technical trails or a newcomer discovering the world of ready-to-run RC cars, this High Trail Edition delivers the perfect combination of stunning looks, legendary Traxxas durability, and genuine off-road performance that makes it one of the most capable trail crawlers available today.

This is not simply another ready-to-run RC truck—the High Trail Edition represents Traxxas's commitment to pushing the boundaries of scale realism and practical trail performance. With its striking replica bodywork capturing the authentic proportions of the original 1979 pickup truck, extended 336mm steel ladder frame chassis, factory-installed Long Arm Lift Kit, and oversized Canyon Trail tyres, the F-150 High Trail Edition transforms your scale adventures into genuine exploration vehicles. The brushed electric motor delivers consistent, reliable power across demanding terrain, whilst the waterproof XL-5 HV speed controller ensures this RC crawler can handle wet conditions and muddy trails without fear. For UK RC enthusiasts seeking a serious, capable trail machine that looks as good as it performs, this is an exceptional choice.

The Traxxas TRX-4 F-150 High Trail Edition sits at the sweet spot between scale authenticity and practical performance. Whilst many RC crawlers sacrifice looks for capability or vice versa, this model does neither. The extended wheelbase improves climbing stability and delivers a smoother ride over rough terrain, the elevated stance provides genuine ground clearance advantages, and the clipless body mounting system offers practical convenience without compromising the clean, authentic scale appearance. Whether you're tackling rocky descents, navigating technical obstacles, or simply enjoying weekend trail sessions with other RC enthusiasts, this ready-to-run RC vehicle offers the versatility and durability that makes it a genuine investment in long-term RC enjoyment.

Key Features

• High Trail Edition Treatment with Long Arm Lift Kit — The factory-installed Long Arm Lift Kit raises the ground clearance over an inch higher than standard TRX-4 models, providing superior articulation and clearance over large rocks and obstacles whilst maintaining the authentic scale proportions of the original vehicle. This engineering advantage translates directly into better trail performance and the ability to navigate more technically demanding terrain.
• Extended 336mm Steel Ladder Frame Wheelbase — The lengthened wheelbase captures the real-world proportions of the 1979 Ford F-150 pickup truck perfectly, delivering not just visual authenticity but practical performance benefits including greater climbing stability and a smoother, more predictable ride across rough, uneven terrain. The longer wheelbase means less tippy behaviour on sideslopes and better weight distribution.
• Large 2.2-inch Slotted Mag Wheels with Canyon Trail Tyres — The substantial 2.2-inch slotted alloy wheels paired with aggressive Canyon Trail tyres provide exceptional grip and traction across technical trails, allowing you to extend your scale adventures further than ever before. These oversized tyres work in harmony with the lifted suspension to tackle the most challenging terrain.
• Clipless Body Mounting System — The innovative hidden latching system gives the F-150 High Trail Edition clean, flowing lines that create a new level of scale realism and visual authenticity. On the trail, the body holds tight securely, but releases in just seconds to access the chassis for maintenance, repairs, or battery swaps—genuine convenience combined with practical engineering.
• Waterproof XL-5 HV Electronic Speed Control — The sealed brushed motor controller protects against water ingress from wet terrain, mud, and trail conditions, meaning you can confidently explore streams, wet grass, and muddy descents without constantly worrying about electronics damage. This waterproof protection extends the lifespan of your investment significantly.
• Titan 21T Reverse Rotation Brushed Motor — The proven brushed motor delivers consistent, reliable torque and power delivery across varying terrain conditions. The 21-tooth configuration provides an excellent balance between responsiveness and climbing power, making this motor ideal for trail crawling where sustained torque matters more than maximum speed.
• 2-Speed Transmission with Remote Shifting — The dual-range gearbox allows you to select High or Low gear via the transmitter during operation. Low gear provides maximum climbing torque for steep ascents and technical obstacles, whilst High gear allows faster trail rolling on flatter sections—genuine versatility without dismounting to change components.
• 4-Wheel Drive with Remote Locking Differentials — All four wheels receive power through the shaft-driven 4WD system, whilst the four-gear differentials can be locked remotely to prevent wheel spin and maximise traction when all wheels need to turn together on extremely slippery or technical terrain. This is genuine trail capability for serious RC enthusiasts.
• TQi 2.4 GHz 4-Channel Radio System with Cruise Control — The factory-included TQi transmitter operates on the secure, interference-free 2.4 GHz frequency band with four channels controlling throttle, steering, gear selection, and differential locking. The cruise control feature maintains throttle position automatically, reducing fatigue during long trail sessions and enabling hands-free coasting.
• Metal Gear 2075X Servo — The durable servo delivers precise steering response with metal gearing that withstands the stresses and impacts of trail crawling. Precise steering is essential when navigating obstacles and tight technical sections, and this servo performs reliably.
• Electronic Hill Hold Brake — The intelligent braking system holds the vehicle stationary on slopes, preventing rollback when parked on inclines. This feature is invaluable on technical trails where you need to stop briefly on slopes and resume climbing without assistance.
• Wide Front and Rear Track (270mm) — The identical 10.6-inch front and rear track width creates a stable, balanced stance that resists tipping during sideslope traversal and provides predictable handling in technical sections. This wide track combined with the extended wheelbase creates exceptional trail stability.
• Outstanding Approach and Departure Angles — With an approach angle of 73.5°, departure angle of 49.67°, and breakover angle of 67°, the F-150 High Trail Edition can navigate terrain that would challenge most other RC crawlers. These angles determine how steep an obstacle you can climb and descend without the vehicle hanging up on its chassis.
• 4-Inch Centre Ground Clearance — The 99mm ground clearance ensures that rocks, roots, and ruts pass beneath the chassis without contact, protecting components and allowing continued forward progress through incredibly technical terrain. This clearance is significantly higher than standard TRX-4 models due to the lift kit.

Technical Performance

The Traxxas TRX-4 1979 Ford F-150 Ranger XLT High Trail Edition represents exceptional engineering in the 1:10 scale trail crawler category. The brushed Titan 21T reverse rotation motor, paired with the waterproof XL-5 HV electronic speed control, delivers consistent, reliable performance across demanding terrain without the complexity or maintenance requirements of brushless systems. The 2-speed transmission with remote shifting capability allows intelligent power delivery selection—engage Low gear for steep climbs where maximum torque matters, or shift to High gear for smoother rolling across flatter sections. The four-gear differentials with remote locking provide genuine traction management, preventing wheel spin in low-grip conditions whilst allowing independent wheel rotation for efficient turning on high-grip surfaces.

The steel ladder frame chassis with nylon composite crossmembers represents a purposeful engineering choice. Aluminium would be lighter but less durable; the steel construction provides genuine toughness that withstands impacts from rocks, roots, and falls that would damage lesser crawlers. The chassis geometry includes an extended 336mm wheelbase—13.23 inches—that directly improves climbing ability and slope stability. The vehicle measures 566mm in length and 275mm in height overall, with identical front and rear tracks of 270mm creating that crucial stability. Battery compatibility is versatile—the TRX-4 accepts 4-7 cell NiMH batteries or 2S-3S LiPo packs, giving you flexibility in power source selection depending on your budget and performance preferences. At 3.33 kilograms without battery, the vehicle achieves excellent balance between durability and manoeuvrability. The electronic Hill Hold brake prevents rollback on slopes, an invaluable feature when navigating technical descents. The shaft-driven 4WD system with 32-pitch gears provides proven reliability and simplicity compared to belt-drive alternatives, meaning fewer adjustments and more time enjoying your RC trail crawler.

What's in the Box

• TRX-4 Ready-To-Explore® fully assembled model
• XL-5 HV waterproof electronic speed control
• Titan 21T reverse rotation brushed motor
• TQi 2.4 GHz 4-channel radio system with cruise control
• 2075X metal gear servo
• High quality maintenance tools

What You Need to Complete

• Battery pack: The TRX-4 accepts either 4-7 cell NiMH batteries or 2S-3S LiPo batteries depending on your preference and performance requirements. The Traxxas 3S LiPo Completer with EZ-Peak Charger is recommended for optimal performance and convenient charging.
• Battery charger: The Traxxas EZ-Peak Live charger (model #2971) is recommended for fast, easy charging of both NiMH and LiPo batteries with integrated balance charging capabilities.
• Four AA alkaline batteries: Required to power the TQi 2.4 GHz transmitter. Standard AA batteries are suitable, though rechargeable AA batteries reduce long-term operating costs.

Frequently Asked Questions

• Is the Traxxas TRX-4 Ford F-150 High Trail Edition suitable for beginners to RC crawling? — Yes, this is an excellent starter crawler for UK enthusiasts new to the hobby. The ready-to-run configuration means no assembly or technical knowledge is required—unbox it, charge the battery, and start exploring trails immediately. The skill level is classified as Skill Level 1, meaning no building experience is necessary. The brushed motor is simpler to understand than brushless alternatives, the 2-speed transmission makes it easy to adapt to different terrain, and the remote differential locking teaches genuine trail technique without overwhelming complexity. The included TQi radio system is intuitive to operate, and the comprehensive maintenance tools help you keep the model in perfect condition.
• What battery does the Traxxas TRX-4 Ford F-150 High Trail Edition require? — The model accepts a wide variety of battery options, providing flexibility based on your budget and performance preferences. You can use 4-cell, 5-cell, 6-cell, or 7-cell NiMH battery packs, or 2S or 3S LiPo batteries for higher performance. The Traxxas 3S LiPo Completer with EZ-Peak Charger is recommended for the best balance of performance and convenience. The battery tray measures 158.8mm long by 47mm wide and accommodates batteries 23-26mm tall, so you should verify physical dimensions before purchasing any third-party batteries.
• How does the High Trail Edition differ from standard TRX-4 models? — The High Trail Edition includes several factory-installed upgrades that standard TRX-4s do not have. The Long Arm Lift Kit raises the vehicle over an inch higher, providing superior ground clearance and articulation. The large 2.2-inch slotted mag wheels paired with oversized Canyon Trail tyres are specifically selected for enhanced trail performance. The extended 336mm wheelbase is longer than many other TRX-4 variants, improving climbing stability. These modifications make the High Trail Edition genuinely more capable on technical terrain whilst maintaining the authentic scale appearance that makes the TRX-4 unique. If you want maximum trail performance combined with stunning looks, the High Trail Edition is the superior choice.
• Is the Traxxas TRX-4 waterproof and suitable for wet terrain? — The XL-5 HV electronic speed control features waterproof construction, allowing the vehicle to handle wet grass, stream crossings, and muddy trails without electronics damage. However, you should avoid fully submerging the vehicle or exposing the motor and gearbox excessively to water, as these components have splash resistance rather than full waterproofing. Always allow components to dry thoroughly after wet terrain sessions, and inspect the vehicle for water ingress before battery charging.
• What is the top speed of the Traxxas TRX-4 Ford F-150 High Trail Edition? — The manufacturer does not publish a specific top speed specification for this model, as the TRX-4 is designed for trail capability rather than maximum speed. The brushed Titan 21T motor prioritises torque and steady climbing power over raw velocity. Trail speed will vary dramatically depending on terrain, battery choice, and whether you're using the High or Low gear. For typical trail use, expect moderate rolling speeds that prioritise control and obstacle negotiation over acceleration.
• How long does the battery last per charge? — Runtime depends on several variables including battery capacity (typically 3000-5000mAh for recommended packs), battery chemistry (NiMH or LiPo), terrain difficulty, driving style, and whether you're using High or Low gear selection. Trail crawling typically consumes less battery capacity than high-speed bashing due to the lower overall power draw. Most drivers experience 20-40 minutes of continuous trail use per full battery charge, though technically challenging sections may shorten this duration significantly.
• What charger do I need for the batteries? — The Traxxas EZ-Peak Live charger (model #2971) is the officially recommended charger and supports both NiMH and LiPo batteries with integrated safety features and balance charging. The EZ-Peak Plus 3S 4Amp charger is also compatible and suitable for faster charging of LiPo batteries. Never attempt to charge LiPo batteries with chargers not specifically designed for LiPo technology, as this presents a genuine fire hazard. The charger is not included in the box—you must purchase it separately.
• Can I upgrade to brushless power on this model? — The TRX-4 platform is designed to accept various motor and ESC combinations, so brushless upgrades are theoretically possible. However, the Traxxas ecosystem is optimised around brushed power for this specific model, and performing significant upgrades voids the warranty and requires technical expertise. We recommend enjoying the included brushed system first before contemplating major modifications.
• What maintenance is required to keep the TRX-4 in perfect condition? — The high-quality maintenance tools are included to help you perform basic care. After trail sessions, check for mud or debris in the drivetrain and gearbox, removing accumulation with compressed air or a soft brush. Inspect the suspension components for damage or fluid leakage. Clean the battery connectors and check for corrosion. Occasionally lubricate suspension pivot points with suitable RC lubricant. The clipless body mounting makes cleaning the chassis extremely convenient—simply release the body clips and lift the body off to access everything beneath. Regular maintenance extends the lifespan of your investment dramatically and prevents unexpected failures during important trail sessions.
• Is spare parts availability good for the TRX-4 in the UK? — Yes, the Traxxas TRX-4 is one of the most popular RC crawlers in the UK, and spare parts are readily available from authorised Traxxas retailers including RC Model Shop. Common wear items like tyres, servo, motor, speed controller, and suspension components are stocked by major retailers, and Traxxas maintains an extensive spare parts catalogue ensuring long-term support for your investment.

Why Buy from RC Model Shop?

RC Model Shop is a trusted UK RC retailer and authorised dealer for all the brands we stock, including Traxxas, ARRMA, Losi, FTX, Hobbywing, Spektrum and more. Based in Walsall, we have a physical store where customers are welcome to come in, view products and purchase in store. Whether you are a seasoned competitor, a weekend basher, or just discovering the world of RC for the first time, our team of experienced RC enthusiasts is here to help you find the perfect setup and provide ongoing support. Order the Traxxas TRX-4 1979 Ford F-150 Ranger XLT High Trail Edition 1:10 4WD Electric Trail Crawler, Black (+ TQi 4-ch, XL-5 HV, Titan 550, 2-Speed, Locking Diffs) TRX92046-4-BLK today with confidence, knowing you are buying from an authorised retailer with genuine products, expert knowledge and a commitment to customer satisfaction. Shop online or visit us in Walsall — we look forward to helping you get the most out of your RC experience.