Overview

The Futaba T4PM Plus 4-Channel Surface Radio with R304SB Receiver (FUT05003191-3) is a mid-to-high range steerwheel radio system purpose-built for RC car and boat competition. Developed for serious hobbyists and racers who demand responsive control and advanced telemetry capabilities, this 4-channel 2.4 GHz system combines cutting-edge Super Response technology with bidirectional communication to deliver lightning-fast signal processing and real-time vehicle data. Whether you're competing in time trials, enjoying weekend bashing, or fine-tuning your RC car setup, the T4PM Plus offers the professional-grade features and reliability that have made Futaba one of the world's most trusted names in RC radio control since 1962.

This ready-to-go radio kit is supplied complete with the T4PM+ transmitter and R304SB receiver, meaning you can begin using it immediately with compatible vehicles. The system is designed for drivers aged 14 and upwards who want more than basic control — the T4PM Plus delivers comprehensive model memory, advanced mixing functions, and competitive-level tools that grow with your skills. From casual RC enthusiasts exploring the hobby to serious competitors preparing for club races, this UK-stocked radio system provides the control precision and feature depth expected at this level of RC car radio equipment.

Built around Futaba's proven T-FHSS SR (Super Response) technology, the T4PM Plus also supports standard T-FHSS telemetry and S-FHSS protocols, giving you flexibility across different vehicle types and setups. The compact R304SB receiver measures just 35.1 × 23.2 × 8.5 mm and weighs only 6.6 g, making it ideal for fitting into modern RC car chassis without sacrificing weight distribution. With 40 model memory slots, extensive digital trim and dial functions, and a powerful 4-axis JOG button for intuitive menu navigation, the T4PM Plus transforms from simple control into a complete vehicle management system.

Key Features

• T-FHSS SR (Super Response) System — This advanced protocol dramatically increases processing speed and signal response time compared to standard systems, giving you sharper steering input and more immediate throttle response when you need precision control during competitive driving or technical courses.
• Bidirectional T-FHSS Telemetry Communication — The radio receives real-time data from your vehicle through the R304SB receiver, allowing you to monitor performance parameters and vehicle behaviour directly on the transmitter's LCD screen without needing a separate telemetry module.
• 2.4 GHz Frequency-Hopping Spread Spectrum Technology — Automatic channel shifting within the 2.4 GHz band eliminates the need for manual frequency selection, while effectively minimising interference from other 2.4 GHz RC systems, WiFi networks, and wireless devices operating nearby.
• 40-Model Memory with Digital Naming — Store up to 40 different vehicle configurations with custom names using up to 10 letters, numbers and symbols, plus use the model copy function to duplicate settings for quick fine-tuning variations without starting from scratch.
• 4-Axis JOG Button for Menu Control — Navigate menus and adjust settings intuitively using the four-directional joystick button, allowing quick access to functions without memorising complex button combinations.
• ESC-Link Function (MC-LINK) for Futaba Speed Controllers — Wirelessly adjust variable frequency and other ESC parameters directly from your transmitter when using compatible Futaba ESCs including the MC970CR, MC850C, MC851C, MC602C, and MC402CR models.
• S.BUS Servo Parameter Wireless Setting — Pair with R334SBS or R334SBS-E receivers to wirelessly configure S.BUS servo settings using PC Link software, eliminating the need for physical connections during setup.
• Advanced Steering Mixing — Independent left and right steering servo adjustment enables smooth, precisely-tuned cornering characteristics by compensating for individual servo characteristics and vehicle geometry.
• Brake Mixing for Large-Scale Vehicles — Dedicated 1/5-scale brake mixing function allows independent front and rear brake application, crucial for larger gas-powered RC cars where brake balance dramatically affects handling.
• Gyro Mixing (GYRO MIX) — Adjust the sensitivity of Futaba car rate gyros directly from the transmitter, allowing real-time tuning of gyro assistance without opening the vehicle chassis.
• 4WS Mixing for Crawlers and Multi-Axle Vehicles — Purpose-built function for four-wheel steering configurations common in RC crawlers and scale vehicles, enabling coordinated multi-axle control.
• Dual ESC Mixing for Crawler Applications — Independent control of front and rear ESCs allows sophisticated traction management in high-performance crawlers where dual motor systems are essential.
• CPS-1 Lighting Mix (CPS MIX) — Integrate Futaba CPS-1 channel power switches to synchronise LED lighting and flashing effects with steering and throttle inputs for enhanced scale appearance and show appeal.
• Anti-Skid Braking System (TH A.B.S.) — Intelligent braking algorithm prevents tyre lockup during cornering on gas-powered RC cars by modulating brake pressure and maintaining grip on the road surface.
• Throttle Acceleration Function — Reduce the effective delay caused by clutch engagement and engine throttle response on nitro-powered vehicles, smoothing acceleration and improving drivability in traffic situations.
• Throttle Speed Control — Gradually smooth out trigger inputs on slippery surfaces to prevent excessive wheel spin and loss of traction, whilst also extending battery runtime on electric vehicles by reducing power consumption.
• Steering Speed Adjustment — Fine-tune the maximum servo operating speed in either direction to prevent overshooting in corners and to match the vehicle's handling characteristics to your driving style.
• Mechanical ATL (Adjustable Travel Limit) — Reduce the total brake throw on the trigger when you need less aggressive braking response, improving control on tight technical courses or in indoor competition environments.
• Racing Timer with 100-Lap Memory — Record lap times automatically with the built-in stopwatch, storing up to 100 consecutive lap times plus total elapsed time, with audible alarms for refuelling intervals and race completion.
• Auto-Start Timer Function — Trigger the lap timer automatically on first throttle application, eliminating manual timing errors and allowing seamless transition into timed competition runs.
• Adjustable Transmitter Ergonomics — Move the throttle trigger position forward or backward to match your hand size and driving preference, plus adjust steering wheel and trigger spring tension from the outside without tools.
• Kyosho Mini-Z Compatibility Modes — Switch the receiver to dedicated MINIZ system mode to use with Kyosho Mini-Z Evo RA-42 receiver, or select MI-FH mode for non-Evo Mini-Z models using the FH FS-RM005 module (both sold separately).
• Function Switch and Trim Dial Assignment — Assign custom functions to two dedicated switches and digital dials, with adjustable step increments and direction reversal for total control customisation.

Technical Performance

The T4PM Plus transmitter operates on the 2.4 GHz band with 100mW EIRP RF power output, delivering a maximum operating range of 100 metres under optimum conditions. The wheel-type steerwheel transmitter is powered by three AA penlight dry cells (4.5V total) with current drain rated at 150 mA or less, providing extended operating periods during extended competition or practice sessions. The compact 1/2-wavelength dipole antenna provides omni-directional signal coverage without requiring antenna rotation or orientation adjustment. The R304SB receiver measures 35.1 × 23.2 × 8.5 millimetres and weighs just 6.6 grammes, utilising a compact footprint that fits modern RC car chassis with minimal space requirements. The receiver operates across a voltage range of DC 4.8 to 7.4V, making it compatible with both 5-cell NiMH battery packs and 2S LiPo batteries commonly used in contemporary RC surface vehicles. The transmitter supports T-FHSS SR (Super Response), standard T-FHSS, and S-FHSS surface protocols, whilst maintaining automatic frequency hopping to minimise external RF interference. The system incorporates fail-safe protection and frequency identification protocols to prevent unintended vehicle operation and ensure safety during multi-radio environments. The bidirectional communication protocol enables real-time telemetry transmission from vehicle to transmitter, allowing instantaneous monitoring of system status without auxiliary modules. Digital proportional control across all four channels ensures smooth, precise servo response with no dead-zones or lag in steering or throttle input translation.

What's in the Box

• 1× T4PM+ Transmitter (steerwheel, 4-channel, LCD display)
• 1× R304SB Receiver (4-channel, T-FHSS compatible)
• 1× Dry Battery Holder (for AA penlight cells)
• 1× Mini Screwdriver (for minor adjustments and receiver installation)

What You Need to Complete

• 3× AA Penlight Dry Cells (alkaline or rechargeable NiMH) — powers the transmitter for up to several hours of operation depending on cell type and usage intensity
• Compatible RC Vehicle — car, truck, or boat equipped with servos, ESC, and motor compatible with 4-channel radio control
• Vehicle Battery Pack — 4.8V to 7.4V compatible with the R304SB receiver (typically 5-cell NiMH or 2S LiPo)
• Servo(s) and Electronic Speed Controller (ESC) — standard analogue or Futaba S.BUS servos; Futaba ESCs with MC-LINK support optional telemetry features

Frequently Asked Questions

• Is the Futaba T4PM Plus suitable for RC car beginners? — The T4PM Plus is rated for ages 14 and upwards and is best suited to hobbyists with basic RC experience rather than complete beginners, due to the extensive feature set and menu navigation required for setup. However, the straightforward transmitter operation and plug-and-play receiver connection make it accessible once fundamental RC car knowledge is established. If you're new to RC cars in the UK, you may prefer learning on a simpler 2-channel system first before progressing to this advanced 4-channel radio.
• What is the maximum operating range of this RC radio system? — The T4PM Plus delivers a maximum operating range of 100 metres under optimum conditions with clear line-of-sight to the vehicle. Real-world range varies depending on antenna position, nearby RF interference from WiFi and mobile networks, and physical obstructions between transmitter and receiver.
• Does the R304SB receiver support Super Response (SR) mode? — No, the R304SB receiver is not compatible with T-FHSS SR (Super Response) mode. The receiver supports standard T-FHSS telemetry and S-FHSS protocols only. If you require SR mode functionality, you would need to upgrade to the R334SBS receiver (sold separately), which does support both SR mode and wireless S.BUS servo parameter setting.
• What batteries does the T4PM Plus transmitter need? — The transmitter requires three AA penlight dry cells (total 4.5V) installed in the included dry battery holder. You can use standard alkaline AA batteries or rechargeable NiMH AA cells for more economical operation. Current drain is rated at 150 mA or less, allowing several hours of operation per battery set depending on cell capacity.
• Can I use this radio with Kyosho Mini-Z vehicles? — Yes, the T4PM Plus can be configured for Kyosho Mini-Z operation by selecting the appropriate receiver mode. For Kyosho Mini-Z Evo vehicles, switch to MINIZ mode and use the dedicated RA-42 receiver (sold separately). For non-Evo Mini-Z models, use MI-FH mode with the FH FS-RM005 module (sold separately). The included R304SB receiver does not support Mini-Z operation in its standard configuration.
• What Futaba ESC models are compatible with MC-LINK telemetry? — The ESC-Link (MC-LINK) function is compatible with Futaba speed controllers including the MC970CR, MC850C, MC851C, MC602C, and MC402CR models. Other ESC brands may not support this wireless parameter adjustment function, though the T4PM Plus will still control them as standard proportional receivers.
• Is the R304SB receiver waterproof for boat use? — The specification sheet does not list a formal waterproof rating for the R304SB receiver. For boat applications, consult the receiver manual for specific environmental protection details and consider using protective cases or conformal coating for long-term saltwater or freshwater exposure.
• Can I use this radio system in areas with heavy 2.4 GHz WiFi interference? — The 2.4 GHz frequency-hopping spread spectrum (FHSS) technology automatically shifts channels within the band to avoid interference from WiFi, Bluetooth, and other RC systems. However, extremely congested RF environments may still cause occasional signal disruption. In such cases, you may need to relocate your operation or use a different frequency band radio system if available.
• What is the difference between T-FHSS SR mode and standard T-FHSS telemetry? — T-FHSS SR (Super Response) mode increases signal processing speed for faster control response, which is beneficial in high-speed racing or technical courses requiring immediate steering input. However, SR mode does not support bidirectional telemetry communication. Standard T-FHSS telemetry mode is slower but provides real-time vehicle data feedback. You choose which mode to use based on whether you prioritise speed or data monitoring.
• How many model memories does the T4PM Plus store? — The transmitter has 40-model memory slots, each capable of storing a unique vehicle configuration with custom naming (up to 10 characters per name). You can use the copy function to duplicate a saved setup and modify it, speeding up configuration of similar vehicles.
• What is the 4-axis JOG button and how does it help? — The JOG button operates in four directions (up, down, left, right) to navigate the transmitter menu system intuitively without relying on multiple separate buttons. This makes adjusting trims, functions, and settings faster and more convenient during setup or competition.

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 Futaba T4PM Plus 4-Channel Surface Radio with R304SB Rx FUT05003191-3 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.