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 4WD electric trail crawler designed for buyers seeking authentic lifted truck styling combined with genuine off-road capability. This ready-to-run RC car is perfect for enthusiasts across the UK who want a fully assembled, fully equipped crawler that delivers impressive performance straight out of the box. Whether you're exploring your garden, tackling indoor challenges, or enjoying outdoor trail adventures, this brushed electric RC crawler combines the legendary Traxxas quality you expect with innovative High Trail suspension engineering that sets it apart from standard TRX-4M models.
The Ford F-150 High Trail Edition represents a significant step forward in mini crawler performance, offering over 35% more centre ground clearance than a standard TRX-4M thanks to its factory-installed Long Arm Lift Kit. This isn't just about looks—the lifted stance translates directly into superior obstacle-clearing capability and more engaging trail-running performance. Available in striking Traxxas blue, this compact 1:18 scale truck captures the proportions and aesthetic appeal of a full-size lifted F-150 whilst maintaining the manoeuvrability you need for tight spaces. For anyone researching ready to run RC cars online or looking to buy a quality brushed electric RC truck in the UK, this model delivers authentic trail-crawling credentials backed by Traxxas' reputation for durability and performance.
This complete RTR package includes everything you need to start driving immediately: a Titan 180 87-turn brushed motor, ECM-2.5 electronic control module, TQ 2.4GHz radio system, 7.4-volt 750mAh 2-cell LiPo battery, and a 2-amp USB fast charger with iD technology. The truck is fully waterproof and engineered to handle demanding terrain, making it suitable for skill level 1 operators whilst offering enough technical sophistication to engage experienced crawlers seeking a compact, capable platform.
Key Features
- Factory-Installed Long Arm Lift Kit — The High Trail edition's carefully engineered Long Arm Lift Kit raises the centre ground clearance by over 35% compared to standard TRX-4M models, delivering a dramatic lifted stance that looks authentic and performs brilliantly over obstacles. Revised shock mounts and extended links ensure the suspension maintains its precise geometry for peak performance, meaning you get both stunning aesthetics and genuine climbing ability.
- Larger 2.4-inch Mickey Thompson Baja Pro XS Tyres — These premium-specification tyres replicate the aggressive tread pattern of full-size Baja Pro tyres, filling out the wheel wells for an authentic "lifted truck" appearance. The sticky rubber compound combined with trail-tuned foam inserts provides superior traction on varied terrain, giving you the "bite" needed to conquer challenging obstacles with confidence.
- Extended Wheelbase (162mm) — The High Trail Edition's steel frame rails extend the wheelbase significantly to capture real-world F-150 proportions accurately. A longer wheelbase translates directly into greater climbing stability and smoother, more composed handling across rough terrain, reducing the likelihood of rollovers and improving overall trail composure.
- Detailed Clipless ABS Body — The tough ABS plastic body features molded-in colour with highly detailed chrome trim for complete scale authenticity and durability. The hidden latching system allows the body to release in seconds for maintenance access whilst holding tight during aggressive trail sessions, preserving the clean lines of the authentic Ford F-150 design.
- Steel Ladder Frame Construction — The chassis uses proper steel ladder frame rails with nylon composite crossmembers, mirroring real truck architecture and delivering exceptional strength-to-weight ratio. This robust construction ensures the TRX-4M can handle the stresses of crawling over rocks, logs, and uneven terrain without flex or deformation.
- Fully-Locked Differentials with 2:1 Axle Ratio — Both front and rear differentials are completely locked, ensuring maximum traction when any wheel encounters an obstacle. The 2:1 axle ratio optimises torque delivery for crawling performance, allowing the truck to maintain momentum over challenging terrain that would defeat open differentials.
- Titan 180 87-Turn Brushed Motor — This proven brushed motor delivers reliable, consistent performance with excellent torque characteristics ideal for trail crawling. The 87-turn specification provides the perfect balance of speed and power for this class of vehicle, ensuring adequate hill-climbing ability without sacrificing smooth control.
- ECM-2.5 All-in-One Electronics — This integrated Electronic Control Module combines the ESC, receiver, and lighting control in a single waterproof unit, simplifying wiring and reducing weight whilst maintaining full waterproofing credentials. The intelligent design includes electronic "Hill Hold" braking, which keeps the truck stationary on slopes without requiring throttle input.
- TQ 2.4GHz 2-Channel Radio System — The included Traxxas TQ transmitter operates on the standard 2.4GHz frequency with proven reliability and interference resistance. Two channels control steering and throttle with precision and minimal latency, providing the intuitive control necessary for demanding trail sections.
- Complete Waterproof Design — All electronics are sealed against water ingress, allowing confident driving through streams, wet grass, and muddy conditions without worry. This waterproofing extends to the servo, motor, and ESC, ensuring longevity in demanding outdoor environments.
- Premium 7.4V 750mAh 2-Cell LiPo Battery — The included 2-cell LiPo battery provides excellent power-to-weight characteristics and can be recharged using the supplied 2-amp USB fast charger. The iD-equipped charger automatically detects battery type and adjusts charging parameters for safety and longevity, eliminating guesswork from the charging process.
- Axle-Mounted Steering Servo — The #2065T heavy-duty waterproof servo mounts directly to the axle for direct steering response and reliable operation in muddy, wet conditions. This servo design minimises binding and provides the precise steering control necessary for navigating tight trail sections.
Technical Performance
The Traxxas TRX-4M Ford F-150 High Trail Edition represents genuinely sophisticated engineering delivered in a compact 1:18 scale package. The truck measures 269mm in length with a 162mm wheelbase, weighing just 468 grams fully assembled with battery installed, yet its construction utilises a proper steel ladder frame chassis with nylon composite crossmembers—the same architecture found in full-size vehicles. The Titan 180 87-turn brushed motor drives all four wheels through a shaft-driven 4WD system with fully-locked differentials and 2:1 axle ratio, optimising torque transfer for demanding crawling conditions. The ECM-2.5 electronic control module integrates the speed controller, receiver, and lighting functions into a single waterproof unit, whilst the heavy-duty #2065T servo operates with full waterproofing credentials. Centre ground clearance reaches 40mm thanks to the Long Arm Lift Kit, with approach, breakover, and departure angles of 62°, 51.5°, and 52° respectively—geometry optimised for obstacle clearing. The 2.4-inch Mickey Thompson Baja Pro XS tyres mount on 25.4mm diameter wheels, providing authentic appearance and trail-focused traction. The TQ 2.4GHz radio system operates on standard frequency with two channels for steering and throttle control, whilst the 7.4-volt 750mAh 2-cell LiPo battery powers the entire system. All electronics are sealed against water ingress, making this a genuinely capable ready-to-run crawling platform suitable for intermediate and advanced operators seeking authentic trail performance in a compact, highly portable package.
What's in the Box
- TRX-4M High Trail fully assembled crawler chassis
- Licensed ABS hard body in Traxxas blue with detailed chrome trim
- Titan 180 87-turn brushed motor
- ECM-2.5 Electronic Control Module (combined ESC, receiver, and lighting control)
- TQ 2.4GHz 2-channel transmitter
- 7.4-volt 750mAh 2-cell LiPo battery with iD charge port
- 2-amp USB fast charger with iD technology
- Complete set of high-quality maintenance tools
What You Need to Complete
- Four AA alkaline batteries for the transmitter (not included)
Frequently Asked Questions
- Is the Traxxas TRX-4M High Trail Edition suitable for beginners? — Yes, this truck carries a Skill Level 1 designation, meaning it is designed for entry-level operators. The ready-to-run format includes everything needed to drive immediately, and the two-channel radio system with simple throttle and steering controls is intuitive for new users. However, the advanced features—such as waterproofing, precision differentials, and suspension geometry—make it equally engaging for experienced crawlers seeking a compact, capable trail platform.
- What battery does the TRX-4M Ford F-150 High Trail Edition require? — The truck includes a 7.4-volt 750mAh 2-cell LiPo battery as standard. This battery is compatible with the ECM-2.5 electronic control module and provides adequate runtime for recreational trail sessions. The included 2-amp USB fast charger features iD technology, automatically detecting the battery and adjusting charge parameters for optimal performance and longevity.
- How does the High Trail Edition differ from a standard TRX-4M? — The High Trail Edition features a factory-installed Long Arm Lift Kit that raises centre ground clearance by over 35%, larger 2.4-inch Mickey Thompson Baja Pro XS tyres instead of standard items, and an extended 162mm wheelbase for improved stability and authentic lifted truck proportions. These modifications enhance both visual appeal and genuine crawling capability, particularly on obstacles and uneven terrain.
- Is the TRX-4M Ford F-150 High Trail waterproof? — Yes, all electronics including the ECM-2.5 module, motor, servo, and battery connector are sealed against water ingress. This allows confident operation in wet conditions, streamside driving, and muddy terrain without fear of electrical failure, making it suitable for year-round UK outdoor use.
- What is the top speed and runtime of this ready-to-run RC crawler? — The TRX-4M is classified as a trail crawler rather than a speed-focused platform, prioritising precise control and obstacle-clearing capability over outright velocity. The 750mAh LiPo battery provides runtime sufficient for recreational trail sessions; exact duration varies based on driving intensity and terrain conditions. This is deliberate—trail crawlers emphasise smooth, controlled driving that maximises engagement with obstacles rather than flat-out speed.
- Can I upgrade the motor or electronics in this crawler? — The TRX-4M platform is designed as a complete system with integrated electronics (ECM-2.5 module). Whilst upgrading the battery to a higher-capacity unit is straightforward, motor and ESC modifications would require additional components and technical knowledge. Consult the manufacturer's guidelines before attempting any modifications.
- What is the approach, breakover, and departure angle specification? — The High Trail Edition achieves an approach angle of 62°, breakover angle of 51.5°, and departure angle of 52°. These angles define the truck's ability to climb obstacles, traverse uneven terrain, and descend without grounding—geometry optimised for authentic trail-crawling performance over rocks, logs, and natural obstacles.
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, Blue (+ TQ, ECM-2.5, Titan 87T, 750mAh LiPo, USB Charger, Clipless Body) TRX97044-1-BLUE 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.
- Brand: Traxxas
- Model Number: TRX97044-1-BLUE
- Product Type: 1:18 Scale 4WD Electric Trail Crawler RTR
- Vehicle Style: Ford F-150 High Trail Edition
- Colour: Traxxas Blue
- Body Material: ABS plastic with molded-in colour and chrome trim
- Chassis Material: Steel ladder frame with nylon composite crossmembers
- Length: 269mm (10.6 inches)
- Width/Front Track: 127mm (5.0 inches)
- Rear Track: 127mm (5.0 inches)
- Height: 127mm (5.0 inches)
- Wheelbase: 162mm (6.38 inches)
- Centre Ground Clearance: 40mm (1.57 inches)
- Approach Angle: 62°
- Breakover Angle: 51.5°
- Departure Angle: 52°
- Weight (with battery): 468g (1.03 lbs)
- Drive System: Shaft-driven 4WD
- Motor Type: Brushed electric
- Motor Model: Titan 180 87-turn
- Differential Type: Fully locked (front and rear)
- Axle Ratio: 2:1
- Electronic Control Module: ECM-2.5 (combo ESC, receiver, and lighting control)
- Waterproofing: Fully waterproof
- Steering System: Axle-mounted servo
- Servo Model: #2065T Heavy Duty Waterproof
- Radio System: TQ 2.4GHz 2-channel transmitter
- Frequency: 2.4GHz
- Channels: 2 (steering and throttle)
- Brake Type: Electronic "Hill Hold"
- Suspension Type: Long Arm Lift Kit (factory installed)
- Shock Length (front and rear): 51mm (2.0 inches)
- Shock Mounts: Revised for geometry optimization
- Extended Links: Yes (for High Trail Edition)
- Tyre Type: Mickey Thompson Baja Pro XS
- Tyre Size: 61.9 x 25.6mm (2.4 x 1.0 inches)
- Tyre Compound: Sticky rubber with trail-tuned foam inserts
- Wheel Size: 25.4 x 12.5mm (1.0 x 0.49 inches)
- Hex Size: 7mm
- Battery Type: 2-cell LiPo
- Battery Voltage: 7.4V
- Battery Capacity: 750mAh
- Battery Connector: iD
- Charger: 2-amp USB fast charger with iD technology
- Charger Input: USB
- Skill Level: 1
- Body Type: Clipless with hidden latching system
- Assembly Type: Ready-to-Run (RTR)
- EAN: 020334017871
- Included in Box: TRX-4M High Trail model, licensed ABS hard body, Titan 180 87-turn motor, ECM-2.5 Electronic Control Module, TQ transmitter, 7.4V 750mAh 2-cell LiPo battery, 2-amp USB fast charger with iD, high quality maintenance tools
- Additional Items Required: Four AA alkaline batteries for the transmitter
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