Traxxas TRX-4M 1979 Ford F-150 High Trail Edition 1:18 4WD Electric Trail Crawler, Brown (+ TQ, ECM-2.5, Titan 87T, 750mAh LiPo, USB Charger, Clipless Body) TRX97044-1-BRWN

Overview

Small-scale adventure takes a big leap in performance with the Traxxas TRX-4M 1979 Ford F-150 High Trail Edition, a premium 1:18 scale ready to run RC crawler designed for enthusiasts who demand authentic scale detail combined with serious off-road capability. This is a fully assembled RTR RC car UK buyers have been waiting for—it arrives complete with everything needed to start crawling immediately, including a Titan 180 87-turn brushed motor, ECM-2.5 electronic control module, TQ 2.4GHz radio system, 750mAh LiPo battery and USB fast charger. Whether you're exploring indoor environments or tackling outdoor trails, this brown-finished Ford F-150 delivers the quality and performance expected from Traxxas, one of the world's most recognised RC vehicle manufacturers.

The High Trail Edition represents a significant evolution over standard TRX-4M models, offering over 35% more centre ground clearance for dramatic lifted truck proportions that capture the real-world appeal of lifted pickups. Available as either a Chevrolet K10 or this authentic 1979 Ford F-150 body style, the High Trail Edition combines factory-installed long arm lift kit suspension with larger 2.4-inch Mickey Thompson Baja Pro XS tyres and an extended 162mm wheelbase to deliver exceptional all-terrain capability. This is not simply a toy—it's a precision-engineered trail crawler engineered for serious performance across challenging terrain, making it ideal for both seasoned RC enthusiasts and those discovering the world of ready to run RC vehicles for the first time.

From the moment you unbox this electric RC 4WD crawler, you'll appreciate the meticulous attention to detail. The licensed ABS hard body features molded-in colour with highly detailed chrome trim that replicates the full-size Ford F-150's iconic styling. The clipless body system holds securely during aggressive trail work yet releases in seconds, preserving the clean lines of this scale masterpiece. With waterproof electronics, sealed servo components, and a steel ladder frame construction, this brushed motor RC crawler is built to handle the demands of both indoor carpet crawling and outdoor muddy trail adventures.

Key Features

• Factory-Installed Long Arm Lift Kit — The High Trail Edition's long arm lift kit with revised shock mounts and extended suspension links raises the centre ground clearance by over 35% compared to standard TRX-4M models, creating a dramatic lifted stance while maintaining carefully-tuned suspension geometry for peak performance on challenging terrain. This engineering ensures the truck handles rough ground with authority and style.
• Larger 2.4-Inch Mickey Thompson Baja Pro XS Tyres — Purpose-designed for the High Trail Edition, these larger tyres replicate the aggressive tread pattern of their full-size counterparts and fill out the wheel wells with authentic lifted truck proportions. The sticky compound rubber and trail-tuned foam inserts provide superior bite and traction across rocks, dirt, grass and other natural surfaces, making this 4WD RC crawler genuinely capable on technical terrain.
• Extended 162mm Wheelbase — The steel frame rails extend the wheelbase to 162mm, perfectly capturing the real-world proportions of the Ford F-150 whilst delivering practical performance benefits. A longer wheelbase translates directly into greater climbing stability and a smoother, more controlled ride over rough and broken terrain, whilst helping the truck maintain traction when tackling steep gradients.
• Detailed Clipless Body — The tough ABS hard body features a hidden latching system that holds securely during trail action yet releases in seconds without tools or complexity. Molded-in colour with highly detailed chrome trim delivers complete scale authenticity, whilst the clipless design preserves the clean lines of this iconic 1979 Ford F-150 style pickup truck.
• Fully Locked Differentials with 2:1 Axle Ratio — Both front and rear differentials are fully locked, ensuring maximum traction and power delivery to every wheel when traversing obstacles. The 2:1 axle ratio is specifically tuned for low-speed crawling performance, allowing the truck to inch forward with precision control over steep rocks and technical features.
• Steel Ladder Frame Chassis — The authentic steel ladder frame with nylon composite crossmembers provides genuine durability and scale-correct construction, delivering the toughness needed for repeated trail abuse whilst maintaining the visual accuracy that scale enthusiasts demand.
• Waterproof Electronics — The entire electrical system is waterproof-rated, meaning the ECM-2.5 electronic control module, Titan 180 motor and #2065T servo can handle wet conditions without failure. This waterproofing extends the vehicle's operational envelope to damp grassland, stream crossings and muddy trails where standard RC crawlers would struggle.
• Shaft-Driven 4WD System — Power is delivered to all four wheels through a reliable shaft-driven 4WD system, providing consistent traction and control across varied terrain. This proven drivetrain design ensures equal power distribution and predictable handling characteristics whether crawling or faster trail running.
• Electronic Hill Hold Brake — The sophisticated electronic Hill Hold brake system automatically prevents the truck from rolling backwards on inclines, maintaining position on steep terrain without requiring constant throttle input. This feature is invaluable when navigating challenging climbs and rocky obstacles where momentary lapses in throttle control could cause the truck to slide backwards.
• TQ 2.4GHz Radio System with 2 Channels — The included TQ 2.4GHz 2-channel transmitter operates on the globally-recognised 2.4GHz frequency, providing reliable interference-free control across most environments. The simple 2-channel layout means intuitive throttle and steering control for drivers of all skill levels, whilst the robust 2.4GHz protocol ensures consistent range and responsiveness.
• Complete Ready-to-Run Package — Unlike many RC crawlers requiring additional purchases, this ready to run RC 4WD truck arrives with motor, ESC, receiver, transmitter, battery and charger all included. Simply unbox, charge the battery, install four AA alkaline batteries in the transmitter, and you're ready to hit the trails within hours.
• Skill Level 1 Design — Traxxas rates this electric trail crawler as Skill Level 1, meaning it's approachable for beginners while remaining genuinely capable for experienced drivers. The straightforward mechanical systems, intuitive radio control, and forgiving handling characteristics make this an excellent entry point into the world of serious RC crawling.

Technical Performance

The Traxxas TRX-4M High Trail Edition Ford F-150 represents genuine engineering excellence in the miniature crawler category. Power comes from a Titan 180 87-turn brushed motor, a proven unit that delivers smooth, controllable power delivery ideal for technical trail work where precision matters more than outright speed. The motor drives through the ECM-2.5 electronic control module, which functions as a combined ESC, receiver and lighting control system—this integrated approach minimises weight, complexity and component count whilst maintaining waterproof protection for wet conditions. The motor is paired with a 7.4-volt 750mAh 2-cell lithium polymer battery, providing sufficient capacity for extended trail sessions whilst remaining light enough to maintain responsive handling. The 2-amp USB fast charger with iD technology ensures the battery reaches full charge quickly, minimising downtime between adventures. Build quality throughout is exemplary: the steel ladder frame chassis with nylon composite crossmembers provides structural rigidity without excessive weight, whilst the licensed ABS hard body combines durability with scale authenticity. The suspension system features front and rear shocks with 2.0-inch (51mm) stroke length, combined with the extended wheelbase and long arm lift kit geometry to deliver exceptional articulation and ground contact across obstacles. Approach, breakover and departure angles of 62°, 51.5° and 52° respectively ensure the truck can tackle steep terrain without high-centring. The #2065T servo provides reliable steering control with heavy-duty waterproof construction, essential for the damp conditions encountered during serious trail work. With dimensions of just 269mm length, 127mm width and 127mm height, this 1:18 scale electric RC crawler is small enough for indoor carpet crawling yet large enough to feel substantial and stable during outdoor trail adventures.

What's in the Box

• TRX-4M High Trail complete model vehicle (pre-assembled)
• Licensed ABS hard body in brown with detailed chrome trim
• Titan 180 87-turn brushed motor
• ECM-2.5 electronic control module (ESC, receiver, lighting control)
• TQ 2.4GHz 2-channel radio transmitter
• 7.4-volt 750mAh 2-cell lithium polymer battery
• #2065T heavy-duty waterproof servo
• 2-amp USB fast charger with iD charging technology
• High-quality maintenance tools

What You Need to Complete

• Four AA alkaline batteries for the transmitter (batteries not included)

Frequently Asked Questions

• Is the TRX-4M High Trail Edition suitable for beginners to RC crawling? — Yes, absolutely. Traxxas rates this vehicle as Skill Level 1, meaning it's designed to be approachable for newcomers whilst remaining genuinely capable for experienced drivers. The ready-to-run package includes everything except transmitter batteries, so there's no need for complex assembly or additional purchases. The straightforward 2-channel radio control, forgiving handling and robust construction make this an excellent entry point into the world of serious RC crawling. Whether you're exploring the hobby for the first time or upgrading from a toy-grade vehicle, this electric trail crawler delivers intuitive control and reliable performance.
• What battery does the TRX-4M High Trail Edition need, and how long does it take to charge? — The vehicle comes complete with a 7.4-volt 750mAh 2-cell lithium polymer (LiPo) battery. This capacity provides sufficient runtime for extended trail sessions, though exact duration depends on driving style and terrain. The included 2-amp USB fast charger with iD technology handles charging quickly—simply connect the battery to the charger and plug into any USB power source. The iD charging technology automatically detects the battery and applies the appropriate charge profile, preventing overcharging and extending battery lifespan. Remember to install four AA alkaline batteries in the transmitter separately.
• What are the key differences between the High Trail Edition and standard TRX-4M crawlers? — The High Trail Edition offers three major upgrades over standard models: first, the factory-installed long arm lift kit raises centre ground clearance by over 35%, creating an authentically lifted truck appearance whilst improving obstacle clearance; second, the vehicle is fitted with larger 2.4-inch Mickey Thompson Baja Pro XS tyres instead of smaller standard units, providing more aggressive tread pattern and superior traction; third, the wheelbase extends to 162mm from the standard length, capturing real-world Ford F-150 proportions whilst improving climbing stability and ride smoothness. These enhancements make the High Trail Edition significantly more capable on technical terrain.
• Is this TRX-4M waterproof for muddy trails and water? — The electronic components are waterproof-rated, including the ECM-2.5 control module, Titan motor and #2065T servo. This waterproofing means the truck can safely traverse damp grassland, muddy trails and even shallow water crossings without electrical failure. However, waterproofing does not mean unlimited submersion—use common sense regarding water depth and always rinse the vehicle with fresh water after exposure to salt water or heavily contaminated environments.
• What is the top speed of this 1:18 scale crawler, and is it fast? — Traxxas does not specify a top speed figure for this model, as the TRX-4M High Trail Edition is purpose-designed as a trail crawler emphasising articulation, traction and obstacle-negotiating ability rather than outright speed. The Titan 180 87-turn motor provides smooth, controllable power delivery ideal for technical terrain where precision steering and throttle modulation matter far more than velocity. This is a vehicle designed for savouring challenging trails and technical features, not for speed runs—though it certainly moves quickly enough for entertaining trail adventures.
• What is the wheelbase and how does this affect performance? — The High Trail Edition features a 162mm wheelbase, extended compared to standard TRX-4M models. This longer wheelbase delivers multiple performance benefits: it captures the real-world proportions of the Ford F-150 more accurately for scale enthusiasts; it improves climbing stability by distributing weight more gradually across obstacles; and it provides a smoother, more stable ride over rough broken terrain by allowing the suspension to work through a longer travel range. The extended wheelbase particularly benefits when navigating steep inclines and large rocks.
• Can I use this crawler indoors on carpet as well as outdoors on trails? — Yes, the compact 269mm length and precise steering control make the TRX-4M High Trail Edition well-suited to indoor carpet crawling, basement exploration and tight environments. Outdoors, the waterproof electronics and aggressive tyre compound excel on natural terrain including grass, dirt, rocks and mud. This versatility makes it an excellent choice whether you're entertaining yourself indoors during poor weather or tackling genuine trail challenges in the countryside.
• What spare parts and upgrades are available for the TRX-4M? — Traxxas produces an extensive range of genuine spares and upgrades for the TRX-4M platform. Common upgrades include bearing sets to reduce friction, alternative tyre compounds for different conditions, suspension tuning parts, and lighting kits. RC Model Shop stocks many TRX-4M spares and can advise on compatibility and performance benefits. Contact our expert team for recommendations based on your specific intended use.

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-4M 1979 Ford F-150 High Trail Edition 1:18 4WD Electric Trail Crawler, Brown (+ TQ, ECM-2.5, Titan 87T, 750mAh LiPo, USB Charger, Clipless Body) TRX97044-1-BRWN 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.