RC4WD Gelande II 1/10 Scale Off-Road Truck Kit with Aluminium Chassis – Z-K0071

Overview

The RC4WD Gelande II Truck Kit (Z-K0071) is a premium 1/10 scale off-road builders kit engineered for enthusiasts who demand exceptional realism, durability, and trail-ready performance. This is not a ready-to-run RC car UK; rather, it's a sophisticated builders platform designed for those who appreciate the art of construction and customisation. Whether you're exploring the world of rock crawling, building an expedition-themed scale replica, or creating a hard-core off-road vehicle, the Gelande II delivers a versatile foundation that stands apart from typical entry-level RC models. Built around a precision-machined billet aluminium ladder frame chassis, this kit combines industry-leading engineering with stunning scale authenticity.

The Gelande II represents a significant step forward for serious RC enthusiasts and experienced builders. With its comprehensive drivetrain upgrades, advanced suspension geometry, and customisable chassis design, this kit offers unmatched realism and strength compared to standard off-road RC trucks. The attention to scale detail—from the realistic 4x4 transfer case to the removable differential covers on the Yota II axles—makes this an ideal choice for builders who want their RC vehicle to look as impressive as it performs. The kit requires approximately 2-3 hours of assembly time plus electronics, tyres, and wheels, making it a rewarding project for dedicated hobbyists and experienced builders alike.

RC4WD has engineered the Gelande II to handle challenging terrain with confidence whilst maintaining the versatility needed for countless customisation options. From emergency vehicle builds to scale precision rock crawlers, this platform adapts to your vision without compromising performance. The combination of quality materials, robust drivetrain components, and intelligent suspension design ensures that your finished Gelande II will be as capable on the trail as it is visually impressive on display.

Key Features

• Billet Aluminium Ladder Frame Chassis — The core of the Gelande II is a machined billet aluminium ladder frame with a smooth anodised black finish, delivering exceptional structural integrity and scale realism that serious builders demand. This precision-engineered chassis features integrated grooves for cross-bracing, allowing you to add additional strengthening components whilst maintaining the clean aesthetic that defines scale-accurate builds.
• R3 Single-Speed Transmission — This robust transmission system features a tough cast metal case, wider steel .8 Mod gears for increased durability, and a Delrin spur with slipper clutch for reliable performance on the trail. The transmission uses a pinion/spur ratio of 14/64 (1:4.57) with an internal ratio of 1.78:1, delivering the torque needed for climbing and the control required for technical terrain navigation.
• Hammer Transfer Case — The centre-mounted, realistic 4x4 transfer case features a cast metal exterior and widened .8 Mod hardened steel gears at a ratio of 1.47:1, distributed across 8 bearings for smooth operation. This component delivers exceptional scale detail whilst providing the durability required for serious trail use, with hardened gears capable of withstanding high-torque demands day after day.
• Yota II Ultimate Scale Cast Axle V2 System — Front and rear axle assemblies deliver what many consider to be the most scale-accurate axles available on the market today. Featuring 8-degree round knuckles, removable differential covers, lower mounting points, and a compact offset pumpkin, these axles combine stunning realism with reliable performance. The 15/40 gear ratio (2.67:1) with a width at hex of 178.2mm ensures proper driveline geometry and smooth articulation over uneven terrain.
• Dual Spring 80mm Scale Black Shocks V3 with X-Ring Technology — These all-new shocks feature innovative X-ring sealing technology that provides multiple sealing points, delivering superior protection against leaks and contamination. This advanced design ensures cleaner operation, extended performance life, and reliability even in demanding off-road conditions, making them ideal for both casual crawling and competition-level builds.
• Chassis-Mounted Servo — The steering servo is mounted directly to the chassis and kept completely out of view, enhancing the scale realism of your finished build and allowing for a cleaner body integration. This design approach means that no visible servo components break the scale appearance, giving your Gelande II an authentic, finished look from every angle.
• Heavy-Duty Metal Uni-Joint Driveshafts — The drivetrain features high-quality plastic material with durable steel yokes and heavy-duty uni-joints that support reliable driveline angles and exceptional durability. These shafts are engineered to withstand the stresses of serious trail use, ensuring consistent power delivery and longevity even on challenging terrain.
• Metal Drive Coupling — Crafted from hardened steel, this drive coupling provides sufficient durability to extend the lifespan of your drivetrain and withstand the stresses of high-torque operation. This component ensures reliable power transmission and reduces the risk of drivetrain failure during demanding off-road adventures.
• Aluminium Shock Hoops — The integrated shock mounting system uses precision-machined aluminium shock hoops that secure the suspension components whilst maintaining the clean aesthetic of the chassis. These hoops provide solid mounting points for the Dual Spring shocks whilst allowing for adjustments to suit different terrain preferences.
• Premium Steering Links — Crafted from premium materials and engineered for precise control, the steering links enable sharp turns and immediate responsiveness. These links deliver unmatched durability and feedback, allowing you to navigate technical terrain with confidence and execute precise manoeuvres during competition or casual trail sessions.
• Integrated Cross-Bracing Grooves — The CNC-machined chassis features integrated notches and grooves designed specifically for mounting additional cross-bracing components. This thoughtful design allows builders to add custom reinforcement as needed, providing flexibility for different build styles whilst maintaining the structural integrity of the platform.
• Fuel Cell Radio Box — This compact and functional electronics housing keeps your receiver, ESC, and battery organised and protected. The fuel cell design provides excellent scale realism whilst protecting your electronics from dust, mud, and water during off-road adventures.
• Hard Body Mounting Points — The chassis features multiple hard mounting points designed for secure body attachment, allowing you to install a wide range of RC4WD body sets and custom bodies with confidence. This feature ensures your chosen body remains firmly attached during aggressive off-road driving without compromising the clean, integrated appearance.
• 4-Link Rear Suspension with 3-Link Panhard Rod Front — The all-link suspension design delivers precise articulation and optimal weight transfer characteristics, allowing the chassis to maintain excellent contact with uneven terrain. This sophisticated suspension geometry is the result of extensive testing and refinement, making it ideal for both crawling and scale-replica builds.

Technical Performance

The RC4WD Gelande II achieves a final drive ratio of 31.9:1, combining the 1.47:1 Hammer transfer case ratio, the 1.78:1 R3 transmission internal ratio, and the 2.67:1 axle ratio to deliver exceptional low-end torque and climbing ability. The transmission pinion/spur ratio of 14/64 (1:4.57) provides the mechanical advantage needed to traverse rock gardens and steep inclines with controlled precision. With a wheelbase of 275mm (10.8 inches), length of 440mm (17.3 inches), width of 220mm (8.7 inches), and height of 140mm (5.5 inches), the kit offers substantial scale presence whilst remaining manageable for indoor and outdoor terrain. The ground clearance of 50mm (1.97 inches) provides ample space for traversing rocks and navigating uneven ground without frame contact. The materials used throughout the kit—from the precision-machined billet aluminium chassis to the cast metal transfer case and hardened steel gears—reflect RC4WD's commitment to durability and longevity. The X-ring sealing technology on the shocks represents a significant advancement in sealing design, providing multiple contact points that dramatically reduce the likelihood of fluid leakage and contamination compared to single-ring designs. This kit accepts 540 brushed motors in 35T, 45T, or 55T configurations, offering flexibility to match your preferred driving characteristics and terrain demands. The platform requires a 2-channel or higher radio system with an appropriate receiver, a high-torque metal gear steering servo (such as the optional Z-E0035 Twister), and a LiPo or NiMH battery pack (consult your ESC manual for specifications). The combination of these premium components and engineering excellence makes the Gelande II one of the most capable and realistic 1/10 scale crawlers available in the UK market today.

What's in the Box

• 1 x RC4WD Gelande II Truck 1/10 Scale Builders Kit (unassembled)

What You Need to Complete

• 540 brushed motor (35T, 45T, or 55T available separately)
• 2-channel or higher radio system with receiver
• High-torque metal gear steering servo
• LiPo or NiMH battery pack (consult your ESC manual for specifications)
• Electronic Speed Controller (ESC)
• Battery charger (appropriate for your chosen battery type)
• Tyres and wheels (1.9 or 2.2 inch scale tyres recommended; RC4WD compatible options available separately)
• Hex drivers (1.5mm, 2mm, 2.5mm)
• Long nose pliers
• Thread locking adhesive
• Cross wrench or nut driver (4mm, 5.5mm, 7mm)

Suggested Bodies

• RC4WD Complete Cruiser Body Set for Gelande II (Z-B0109)
• RC4WD 2015 Land Rover Defender D90 Body Set (Z-B0215)

Frequently Asked Questions

• Is the RC4WD Gelande II suitable for beginners? — The Gelande II is an unassembled builders kit that requires approximately 2-3 hours of assembly time, making it best suited to experienced builders with mechanical skills and familiarity with RC vehicle construction. This is not a ready-to-run RC car UK; if you are new to the hobby, you may prefer to start with a fully assembled ready-to-run option before tackling a kit project of this complexity.
• What motor does the Gelande II accept? — The kit is compatible with 540 brushed motors available in 35T, 45T, and 55T options. The choice of motor depends on your preferred power delivery characteristics and the terrain you plan to tackle. Lower tooth count motors (35T) deliver higher speed, whilst higher tooth count motors (55T) provide increased torque for climbing and technical terrain.
• What battery does this need? — The Gelande II accepts LiPo or NiMH battery packs; consult your ESC manual for specific voltage and capacity recommendations. A typical setup might use a 2S LiPo battery (7.4V) or a 6-cell NiMH pack (7.2V), though your ESC specifications will determine the exact requirements for your build.
• What is the final drive ratio and what does it mean? — The Gelande II achieves a final drive ratio of 31.9:1, combining ratios from the Hammer transfer case (1.47:1), R3 transmission (1.78:1 internal), transmission gearing (1:4.57), and axle ratio (2.67:1). This aggressive final drive ratio delivers exceptional low-end torque ideal for rock crawling and technical terrain navigation, though it limits top-end speed compared to racing-focused platforms.
• How does the Gelande II compare to other RC crawlers in the UK market? — The Gelande II distinguishes itself through its precision-machined billet aluminium chassis, the highly detailed and scale-accurate Yota II axles with removable diff covers, the advanced Hammer transfer case with hardened gears, and the innovative X-ring shock sealing technology. These components combine to offer exceptional realism and durability that exceed many competitors, making the Gelande II a premium choice for serious builders and competition-focused enthusiasts.
• Can I customise the Gelande II? — The Gelande II platform is engineered specifically for customisation. The integrated grooves on the chassis allow for additional cross-bracing, the hard body mounting points accept a wide range of body sets, and the modular drivetrain design permits upgrades and modifications. Whether you want to build a scale replica, an expedition rig, or a hard-core rock crawler, the Gelande II provides the foundation and flexibility to realise your vision.
• What tools do I need to assemble the kit? — You will need hex drivers in 1.5mm, 2mm, and 2.5mm sizes, long nose pliers, a cross wrench or nut driver in 4mm, 5.5mm, and 7mm sizes, and thread locking adhesive. RC4WD recommends using good-quality hex drivers to avoid stripping screw heads and applying thread lock sparingly to designated components. Do not over-tighten screws, as this can strip threads and damage components.
• What is included with the kit? — The kit includes the fully machined billet aluminium ladder frame chassis, R3 single-speed transmission, Hammer transfer case, front and rear Yota II Ultimate Scale Cast Axle V2 assemblies, Dual Spring 80mm Scale Black Shocks V3, aluminium shock hoops, metal drive coupling, steering links, fuel cell radio box, and all necessary hardware. However, the kit does not include a motor, radio system, receiver, servo, battery, ESC, tyres, or wheels—all of which must be purchased separately.
• How long does the kit take to build? — RC4WD estimates approximately 2-3 hours of assembly time for a builder with mechanical experience. The exact time may vary depending on your experience level, the care you take with assembly, and whether you add optional components or cross-bracing modifications.
• What is the ground clearance? — The Gelande II offers 50mm (1.97 inches) of ground clearance, providing ample space for traversing rocks, roots, and uneven terrain without frame contact. This clearance is particularly generous for scale builds and crawling-focused applications.

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 RC4WD Gelande II 1/10 Scale Off-Road Truck Kit with Aluminium Chassis – Z-K0071 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.