Best trail/crawler kit for a NEWB??

[garage-boo]

Ok, I started off with a redcat rs10 xt that I modded and upgraded to the max. Next I bought a RTR traxxas trx4 sport and did all the upgrades to it. By the way it’s a very capable rig and I love it. Now I want to add to my little RC fleet. I want to go the kit route, so i can use the motor and electronics I want. I need yalls input on a good kit for a true NEWB, who isn’t overly mechnicAlly inclinded. A good trail/crawler rig that will handle a HH 550 trailmaster. It needs to be a kit with SUPER GOOD AND CLEAR step by step assembly instructions. Thanks in advance!

 

[Pabust]

You described the TRX-4 Sport perfectly:

https://traxxas.com/products/models/electric/trx-4-sport-kit

 

[garage-boo]

The only catch with that one is I’ve already got a trx4 sport and I was really wanting to deversify.

 

[JatoTheRipper]

The only catch with that one is I’ve already got a trx4 sport and I was really wanting to deversify.

The TRX-4 is the best kit, period. The good thing about having another is that you can share parts between the two.

I have a feeling a new SCX10 will be released eventually so I'd hold off on getting the SCX10 II. The HPI Venture is a great truck. I really wouldn't look anywhere else.

 

[mass-hole]

I would argue that I am more of a newb than you. I just bought a TRX-4 Sport Kit and havent even driven it yet as I am still waiting on some electrical stuff to come in. The instructions are top notch.

I did look heavily at the HPI Venture as it is a well built rig and seems to be pretty capable but it sounds like the aftermarket is a little lacking. SCX10 II was never really on my radar. I did try to find one used locally but the prices people wanted for one with some light mods was insane.

 

[garage-boo]

When you get that trx4 together you are gonna be wowed! I just added SSD portal weights (per recommendations from some members) and it made a HUGE difference. I also went with some C.I. LIL DEUCES foams with my duratrax deep woods. Look at me acting like I know what I’m talking about!! Lol. I just know I love my trx4 sport

 

[garage-boo]

Thoughts on the redcat preassembled crawler chassis?

 

[Gula]

Hpi venture?

 

[Bob_in az]

Thoughts on the redcat preassembled crawler chassis?

It's a good truck, but it's not really a kit. You won't get the experience of building a kit, but you'll still get to deal with electronics & body set up. The HPI Venture kit would be a good choice if you want to build from the ground up.

 

[raydaddy]

I like the new redcat gen 8 scout 2 as my new crawler . Got for my birthday .

 

[JatoTheRipper]

Thoughts on the redcat preassembled crawler chassis?

Don't bother. Many complaints about the design of the front suspension geometry and portal gear failures. It's like a lesser TRX-4.

 

[Jim85IROC]

As far as I'm concerned, the Gen8 has one and only one "real" fault, and a bunch of keyboard complainers hyping up a bunch more. The portal failures are a legit issue, and until the aftermarket or Redcat themselves start making stronger upper gears, it's going to be a legit concern. The front suspension geometry, not so much. The small amount of bump steer that you get from actuating the suspension through it's full range of motion translates into exactly zero problems when driving it at .0001mph.

 

[JatoTheRipper]

As far as I'm concerned, the Gen8 has one and only one "real" fault, and a bunch of keyboard complainers hyping up a bunch more. The portal failures are a legit issue, and until the aftermarket or Redcat themselves start making stronger upper gears, it's going to be a legit concern. The front suspension geometry, not so much. The small amount of bump steer that you get from actuating the suspension through it's full range of motion translates into exactly zero problems when driving it at .0001mph.

So you're finally agreeing the portals are an issue? Before you were steadfast that they were fixed.

The bump steer may not be a huge issue, but why accept it when there's better competition out there?

 

[VP Dan]

vanquish products VS410

 

[Browneye]

I would get the new 'mog kit from Axial. Nice diversity, lots of options when you're ready to tinker on it.
I have 3 ascenders, 2 from kits, a scx10II Blazer, a bomber kit, and a trx4 sport kit. Building them is a great way to really get to know them, and very entertaining. Just take your time, and build it the way YOU want it.

 

[smog]

If I were you I would look into finding an Axial RR10 Bomber kit before they are all gone.

 

[Still Bill]

You described the TRX-4 Sport perfectly:

https://traxxas.com/products/models/electric/trx-4-sport-kit

I started with a Sport RTR and progressed to the Sport Kit. Really enjoyed the Sport Kit build. But, now starting on an SCX10-II Builders Kit to use at Axialfest in July.

 

[atholliday]

I would suggest the Redcat Gen 8. Its affordable and is very good right out of the box. New foams for the tires or a new set of tires would help.

 

[Natedog]

Thoughts on the redcat preassembled crawler chassis?

Pass due to quality issues and not a kit.

Hpi venture?

Pass.

The bump steer may not be a huge issue, but why accept it when there's better competition out there?

Agreed.

I would get the new 'mog kit from Axial. Nice diversity, lots of options when you're ready to tinker on it.
I have 3 ascenders, 2 from kits, a scx10II Blazer, a bomber kit, and a trx4 sport kit. Building them is a great way to really get to know them, and very entertaining. Just take your time, and build it the way YOU want it.

Great suggestion too, see if there's a 3d printed grill/headlight assembly to make it more realistic. "thumbsup"

 

[cykb4117]

At this point the thread in over a month old and you have most likely bought the kit you were after. However I agree with Natedog and Browneye. If you have a very capable or well set up TRX4 a different vehicle would be the Axial UMG. It has an 11 ish inch wheelbase and regular axles but still has plenty of aftermarket support.