I L S W I T H

G T H E T RA
IN
D O M I N AT A N T 1 / 6 - S C A L E
GI
A X I A L’ S L H O N C H O
X 6 T R A I
SC

SPECIAL PROJECT:
A SLAMMED & STYLED
TAMIYA HORNET

THE MODEL MOTORSPORTS AUTHORITY

JULY 2023 $8.99 US $9.99 CAN

> Made for Overlanding: Traxxas TRX-4 Land Rover Defender
> Small Scale/Big Detail: FMS 1/24 FCX24 Chevrolet K5 Blazer RTR
> Worth Its Weight: A Look at Pit Bull RC’s Pure Gold LiPo Batteries
> 2WD to 4x4: Installing Arrma’s 4x4 Transmission Boost Upgrade Set
 1967 FORD® F-100
Clear Body for 12.3" (313mm) Wheelbase
Scale Crawlers
#3613-00

ULTRA-SLIM

FLOOD PATTERN
8.)*8
LED
LIGHT BAR KITS
SPOT PATTERN
(*39*7

DUAL FOCUS LENS

;;KTW 7(;JMNHQJX
#6352-00 2” (Straight) #6352-02 5” (Curved)
#6352-01 4” (Straight) #6352-03 6” (Curved)

Ƒ]Ƒ Ƒ]Ƒ Ƒ]Ƒ

BAJA PRO™ X TRENCHER KRAWLER T/A® KX
7THP9JWWFNS9WZHP9NWJX 7THP9JWWFNS9WZHP9NWJX 7THP9JWWFNS9WZHP9NWJX
for Front or Rear for Front or Rear for Front or Rear
#10213-03 Predator (Super Soft)  #10183-03 Predator (Super Soft)  #10136-03 RED LABEL / Predator
#10213-14 G8 (Soft)  #10183-14 G8 (Soft)  (Super Soft) 
#10213-10 G8 / Mounted Holcomb #10136-14 BLUE LABEL / G8 (Soft) 
Black Bead-Loc Wheels  

Please note: All tires and wheels are sold in pairs, unless otherwise noted. All bodies are sold in crystal clear polycarbonate and are painted for advertising purposes only. Ford Motor Company Trademarks and Trade Dress used under license to Pro-Line.
BFGoodrich® and all associated names and trademarks used with permission under license by Pro-Line. © 2023 MNAI. All Rights Reserved. Interco® Tire Corporation & trademarks used under license to Pro-Line. Mickey Thompson Tires & Wheels, the
M/T wing logo, and Baja Pro X are trademarks of Max Trac Tire Co., Inc., Stow, OH. Used under license. ©2023 Pro-Line Racing.
 HOLCOMB ƕ Big Bore Holds More Oil for Better Performance
.SYJWSFQ'JFI1THRR-J]<MJJQX ƕ CNC Machined Aluminum Shock Caps, Bodies,
and Bottom Caps
for Front or Rear ƕ Single Low Friction X-Ring Seal Prevents Leaks
#2809-03 Black Plastic ƕ Dual Rate Single Spring Design
#2810-00 Aluminum Composite ƕ Optional +5mm Shock Ends Included
(shown) ƕ Leak-free Double O-Ring Seal
ƕ Hard Chrome Coated Shock Shaft
Ƒ]Ƒ ƕ Captured Lower Spring Perch
TSL SX SUPER SWAMPER XL ƕ Pre-Assembled, Just Fill and Go
7THP9JWWFNS9WZHP9NWJX #6343-00 (90mm-95mm)
for Front or Rear #6343-01 Rebuild Kit
#1197-03 Predator (Super Soft)  #6343-02Spring Assortment
#1197-14 G8 (Soft)  Extended Length: 90-95mm
#1197-13 G8 / Mounted Impulse Black Collapsed Length: 72-77mm
Bead-Loc Wheels
CONTENTS
VOLUME 38
NUMBER 7
JULY 2023
FEATURED VEHICLES DEPARTMENTS
24 › VENERABLE 110 06 › STARTING LINE
Traxxas TRX-4 Land Rover Defender
12 › GEARBOX
30 › SPECIAL PROJECT: THE SLAMMED HORNET
A Unique Take On a Classic Tamiya RC Buggy
14 › READERS RIDES
46 › HEAD HONCHO
Dominating the Trails With Axial’s SCX6 Trail Honcho
74 › TAILPIPE

48 › MEGA BOOST
Behind the Wheel of Arrma’s Vorteks Boost 4x2 Stadium Truck

68 › A LEGEND IN THE PALM OF YOUR HAND

Relive the Glory Days of American Off-Roading
With the 1/24-Scale FMS FCX24 Chevrolet K5 Blazer

FEATURES
38 › THE NEW GOLD STANDARD
Unleash the Power & Shine With Pit Bull RC’s
Pure Gold Battery Lineup

64 › DIY: A BOOST IN TRACTION

Installing Arrma’s 4x4 Transmission Boost Upgrade Set

TEST BENCH
56 › GENS ACE ADVANCED 5500MAH 2S 100C LIHV HARD PACK
58 › ARRMA BOOST 4X4 TRANSMISSION UPGRADE SET

ON THE COVER + LEFT:

Axial SCX6 Trail Honcho

RADIO CONTROL CAR ACTION (USPS 001-087; ISSN 0886-1609) is published monthly by Air Age, Inc., 57 Danbury Road, Suite
202, Wilton, CT 06897 USA. Copyright 2022, all rights reserved. Periodicals postage paid at Wilton, CT, and additional mailing
offices. Canada Post Publications Mail Agreement No. 40008153. SUBSCRIPTIONS: Go to our website RCCarAction.com/order.
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but assume no responsibility for loss/damage of unsolicited material. To authors, photographers, and people featured in this
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 Starting Line
As the temperature rises and the sun shines brighter, it’s a
great time of year to head out with our RC vehicles and hit
the open road. Here at RC Car Action (RCCA), our love for
radio-controlled vehicles knows no bounds, and this issue is
a testament to the diverse RC variety we hold dear.
We’ve delved deep into the world of RCs, providing in-depth
coverage of everything from out-of-the-box stock RTRs to awe-
inspiring scratch-built customs. Our aim is to showcase the
full spectrum of possibilities within the RC realm, and this
issue is brimming with excitement.
Get ready to explore a trio of capable off-road crawlers by
Traxxas, FMS and Axial that range in size from small to giant.
We also take a look at a unique remix of a classic Tamiya
buggy. If it’s a high-flying stadium truck you’re looking for,
you’ll want to read more about the Arrma basher in this issue.
With RCCA, you can always expect a generous serving of
variety.
Also in this issue, our Features Editor, Lauren Short, takes us
through the installation of an Arrma 4x4 Transmission Boost
Upgrade Set. This easy-to-install conversion kit takes your
RCCA IS AT SUBSCRIPTIONS
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Arrma Boost vehicle from two-wheel to four-wheel drive. We
also check out Pit Bull RC’s line of Pure Gold batteries. They’re
blinged-out in terms of look and function; read about what
makes them different from other batteries on the market.
As always, we cherish the opportunity to showcase your
incredible RC creations. If you’ve embarked on a build that
you’d like to share with fellow readers, we invite you to
submit your ride to our Readers Rides department. It has
never been easier to be a part of the RCCA community. Simply
visit RCCarAction.com to find the user-friendly submission
form.
Until next time,
Jerry Tsai
Editorial Director
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 est. 1985

EDITORIAL PUBLISHING
Editorial Director Group Publishers
Jerry Tsai Louis V. DeFrancesco Jr.
Features Editor Yvonne M. DeFrancesco
Lauren Short Associate Publisher
Contributors Leigh Guarnieri | leigh@airage.com | @lguarnieri
Michael Wiene
James York DIGITAL + PRINT CIRCULATION
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Social Media Contributor You can also send an email to service@airage.com, or call
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PRINTED IN THE USA

RCCARACTION.COM
 %2'<./,35(7$,1(56
Features:
• Never Lose Body Klips
• 9 Colors Match Body
• Includes Body Klips
• Easy Installation
• Durable Material

Bo d
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ps In
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e d

Single or
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Available at
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GEARBOX

2. Corrupt Carbon Works

New and noteworthy items
Custom Titanium Bumpers
Corrupt Carbon Works proudly presents
a collection of custom bumpers crafted
from solid titanium. These bumpers are
built to withstand the toughest challenges
and add a touch of rugged elegance to
your RC vehicle. There are many versions
available; check out their website to
choose the perfect bumper design to suit
your needs. Bumper sets are sold in pairs,
each including a front and rear bumper.

MSRP: $99.99-$104.99
corruptcarbonworks.com

1. Vanquish Products
F10 Portal Rear Axle Set
These F10 plastic molded
portal axles benefit from
Vanquish Products’ years of
design experience in making
the industry’s best aluminum
axles. The axles feature an
ultra-rigid design with an
integrated truss that ties both
axle ends together, as well
as brass inner reinforcement
tubes to add more strength and
provide some weight down low
on the vehicle.

P/N: VPS08601
MSRP: $119.99
vanquishproducts.com 3. Shift RCS GT3S and XLP Servos
It can’t be stated just how important servos are in RC vehicles.
Many RTR servos don’t live up to the potential of the vehicle,
so those are often the first parts to get upgraded. If you’re in
the market for a high-performance servo that doesn’t take out
your wallet, you’ll want to look into Shift RCS. The GT3S is a
smooth, powerful steering servo that’s geared for crawlers,
and its companion XLP servo is perfect to use in high-torque
applications such winching.

MSRP: GT3S $154.99 / XLP $84.99

shiftrcs.com

12 RCCarAction.com
READERS RIDES

READERS RIDES
A NEW WAY TO SUBMIT YOUR RIDE!
We now have an easy new way to submit your Readers Rides to RC Car Action online. Just go to
Rccaraction.com/readers-ride-entry-form/ to fill in your vehicle’s info and upload your pix
directly to us! As a bonus, it will generate a shareable link that you can send to your friends or
share on social media to show off your ride to everyone!

KENWORTH LOGGER
MICHAEL ZWICKE « PALATINE, IL
Michael tells us that
his goal was to build a
“go anywhere” logging
truck and it looks like
he succeeded. This
rig is a 6x6 armed
with a two-speed
transmission, locking
transfer case and
locking axles. The
chassis is from an
RC4WD Overland with
the front axle moved
1 inch forward. The
logging frame and
trailer were built from
steel and aluminum
channel with a
generous helping of
parts from Cross RC
and Lesu. Michael
proudly informs
us that the truck
is 1/14-scale and it
hauls around 30 logs
with any problem. It’s
a great-looking logger;
fantastic job, Michael!

14 RCCarAction.com
 BUILD HIGHLIGHTS
- Chassis: RC4WD Overland
- Body: Custom Kenworth C500 made from a Tamiya Bullhead modified
with styrene channel and sheets
- Motor: RC4WD
- Speed Control: RC4WD
- Battery: Goldbatt 5200mAh 3S LiPo
- Wheels & Tires: Custom-painted beadlocks from eBay with added scale
hardware and RC4WD 1.9 military tires
- Suspension: RC4WD shocks, Lesu leaf spring suspension front and rear
- Axles: RC4WD/JDM locking axles
- Paint: Krylon primer and spray paint
- Decals: Boom Racing custom graphics
- Lighting: RC4WD lighting controller, homemade wiring harnesses
- Radio System: Spektrum DX6e
- Sound: RC4WD sound unit
- Other Options: RC4WD winch, Lesu fuel tanks, Cross RC logging trailer
parts, Garden Trucking accessories

SPONSORED BY

The special “P-L” logo marks the Readers Ride of the Month. If
you see it on your vehicle, you win a Pro-Line prize pack that
WIN A PRO-LINE includes a T-shirt, cap, and Pro-Line body.
PRIZE PACK! To submit your vehicle, email your high-resolution JPEG images and a description to
readersrides@airage.com. Readers Rides is also on Facebook! Visit facebook.com/
rccaraction and post your ride; we’ll message you if we want to feature it here in the mag.

JULY 2023 15
READERS RIDES

CUSTOM EAZYRC GLACIER CHEVY K10

ALEC GROSSMAN « WINSTON-SALEM, NC

Alec starts off by telling us: “I thought this EazyRc

Glacier Chevy K10 truck looked great stock… it was just
a little lacking out of the box. The stance wasn’t wide or
tall enough, and it had a tendency to hang up on rocks
or roll over when side-hilling. The steering angle was
also lacking, too.” The first thing he changed was adding
an all-metal servo and WPL RC RES-V3 Tx/Rx-ESC
combo that he already had. He says that the electronic
upgrades slightly improved the steering angle and the
speed. Next he decided to add the portal axles, two-
speed transmission and motor from the FMS FCX24 to
improve the stance and power delivery. “Now this is
my favorite truck,” Alec adds. “It goes everywhere and
I don’t have to pick it up to carry it from one obstacle to
another on the trail!” It’s a great-looking build and we’re
absolutely loving it! Great job, Alec!

16 RCCarAction.com
BUILD HIGHLIGHTS
- Chassis: EazyRc Glacier
- Body: EazyRc Glacier
- Motor: FMS FCX24 2-speed transmission
and motor
- Speed Control: WPL RC RES-V3
- Battery: WPL RC 7.4V 500mAh
- Wheels & Tires: Injora 1.0 deep-dish wheels
and Injora 1.0 all-terrain tires
- Shocks: EazyRc
- Axles: FMS FCX24 portal axles
- Paint: Tamiya X-2 Gloss White
- Decals: RC Plate Shop license plate
and stickers, RC-CrawlerIt emblems
- Lighting: EazyRc
- Radio System: WPL RC RES-V3
- Other Options: 3D-printed camper top,
Steve Austin figure by Zica Toys,
RBR/C 9g all-metal servo

JULY 2023 17
READERS RIDES

CUSTOM RC10 RERE CHAD PIGOTT « REDMOND, WA

Chad bought the ReRe (re-released) RC10 back when it came
out and gave it to his son to assemble it only about a year ago.
The father-and-son duo decided to build it using some vintage
parts along with some reproduction parts. Chad fills us in:
“We also added custom roll bars similar to the box art RC10.
We used Tamiya Super Champ decals and Tamiya Hot Shot
window netting. The tires are from the ReRe Kyosho Scorpion
and the driver is from the ReRe Kyosho Optima.” We love the
RC10 and you guys sure did it justice. Fantastic job to the both
of you, thanks for sharing your stunner of a build.

18 RCCarAction.com
BUILD HIGHLIGHTS
- Chassis: Team Associated RC10
- Body: Team Associated RC10
- Motor: Generic 540
- Speed Control: Vintage Futaba FP-MC6B ESC
- Battery: 6-cell NiCd
- Wheels & Tires: Vintage RC10 chrome front
and vintage Pro-Line chrome rear wheels,
tires from the Kyosho Scorpion ReRe kit
- Shocks: Team Associated RC10
- Axles: Team Associated RC10
- Decals: Tamiya Super Champ
- Radio System: Futaba
- Other Options: Tamiya Hot Shot window
netting, Kyosho Optima driver figure

JULY 2023 19
READERS RIDES

RAMP TRUCK
STEPHAN LABELLE « BLAINE, WA

This truck may look modest, but it’s

got a lot going on. We’ll let its owner,
Stephan, tell its story. “This started
out as am Arrma Kraton EXB roller,”
he informs us. “After watching
too many Duperbash videos and
spending too much time at the dirt
park, I decided a more dedicated
build might be in order. The big
motor isn’t what you think it’s for;
the truck isn’t particularly fast. The
big motor gives some extra kick for
aerial stunts. The truck is a blast to
drive and it’s an excellent jumper.
On the ground it’s really heavy,
well-planted, and accelerates
like a rocket. It really is a blast to
drive. Changes for the future—I’ve
decided it’s too cold where I live for
the RPM A-arms, so I’m going back
to EXBs. After breaking my bell
BUILD HIGHLIGHTS
crank leaping the ‘chasm of death’
- Chassis: Arrma Kraton
I’ve decided to reinstall the stock - Body: JConcepts Finisher
servo saver preload. The upper skid - Motor: Hobbywing EZRUN 4958sl 1/6 scale
plate is to save money on wings. - Speed Control: Castle Monster X 8s stripped of all wires and plugs except the receiver
The skid plate has worn down wire, Team Brood fan wired directly to the receiver
really fast, so a wing is going back - Battery: 2X HRB 6000mAh 3S LiPo
on. That’s the truck—I hope you like - Wheels & Tires: Arrma Backflip 6S wheels/tires
it.” We sure do, Stephan, great job - Shocks: Arrma/M2C plus piston kit, 1000cts oil, black/heavy spring set
and thanks for sharing! - Axles: M2C Kraton/Notorious
- Paint: Duratrax light blue
- Radio System: Flysky Noble NB4

20 RCCarAction.com
 PRO-LINE
FORD F-100
ISRAEL GUAJARDO « RICHARDSON, TX
Those of us who paint their own RC bodies
know that “chrome” paint is a relative
term. Chrome is hard to replicate from
the rattle can and there are plenty of duds
out there. That’s what Israel tells us, and
we agree. “I was not sure how the project
was going to end,” he says. “To be honest,
I was skeptical of the ‘chrome’ billing on
the can because I have only had mediocre
experiences from other chrome paints in
the past.” This is why Israel was pleasantly
surprised when the Traxxas ProGraphics
chrome paint he tried adhered so easily
to his Pro-Line F-100 body. Spaying very
light coats, he was able to achieve a very
reflective chrome look with the Traxxas
paint. Israel adds: “The chrome body looks
good on the Arrma Senton 4x4. I adjusted
the suspension for height and that was it. I
upgraded the chassis with the Hobbywing
Max10 SCT ESC and 4100kV motor, which
runs awesome on 3S batteries. I also
upgraded the motor mount with Arrma’s
metal version and swapped the rear diff
with metal gears.” Great job on making this
truck your own, Israel! The chrome paint is
especially eye-catching.
BUILD HIGHLIGHTS
- Chassis: Arrma Senton 4×4 Mega
- Body: Pro-Line 1956 Ford F-100 Pro-Touring Street Truck
- Motor: Hobbywing EZRUN MAX10 SCT Combo (2-3S)
- Speed Control: Hobbywing EZRUN MAX10 SCT Combo (2-3S)
- Wheels & Tires: Generic
- Shocks: Arrma
- Axles: Arrma
- Paint: Traxxas ProGraphix chrome and chrome backer
- Decals: Pro-Line and custom-made
- Radio System: Flysky FS-GT5 6CH AFHDS RC
transmitter with FS-BS6
- Other Options: Arrma aluminum adjustable motor mount,
4x4 Mega 550 Arrma 3S/4S BLX and Mega metal main
differential gear (37T), Arrma 3S/4S BLX and Mega metal
input gear (13T), Arrma 3S/4S BLX and Mega differential
case set

JULY 2023 21
 TOYOTA LAND CRUISER 40 ITEM 58715 L:390mm 4WD

Evergreen 40 series
The legendary Land Cruiser 40 – which was sold from
1960 to 1984 – now makes an appearance on the
modern CC-02 chassis, with a lightweight polycarbon-
ate body and separately molded roof rack with light
pods, plus 12-spoke wheels and treaded tires. The CC-
02 chassis features 4-link rigid suspension front and
rear and promises hours of entertainment off-road.

FORD BRONCO 2021

ITEM 58705 L:447mm 4WD

Go Go Bronco!
This model of the Ford Bronco 2021 has proven a hit addition to
our series of R/C models, with a realistic polycarbonate body and
plenty of separately molded parts to add even more detail: roof
rack, front grille, mirrors, spare tire cover and even door handles.
12-spoke wheels and treaded tires on the cross-country CC-02
chassis ensure that this model has the performance to back up
its looks, and you’ll just love taking it into the big outdoors – right
where the Bronco belongs, of course.
 Loved by Millions
This R/C model assembly kit recreates the short wheelbase De-
fender 90 variant of Land Rover’s legendary car from 1990, with a
polycarbonate body featuring front and rear light cases which are
compatible with separately sold LEDs. Separate molded parts are
included to depict features such as the outer roll cage, front grille
and spare tire cover. The CC-02 chassis is a great base, providing a
sure-footed drive whether on-road or off.

1990 LAND ROVER

DEFENDER 90 ITEM 58700 L:429mm
4WD

CC-02 CHASSIS LINE-UP

OPTION PARTS

Mercedes-Benz Unimog 406 Series U900 Mercedes-Benz G 500

ITEM 58692 L:384mm 4WD ITEM 58675 L:455mm 4WD

CC-02 Chassis - Off Road, Evolved

Designed for a wide range of off-road scenes including rocky terrain, the CC-02 chassis’ ladder frame
is inspired by full-size vehicles and is the base for its superior durability. A 4WD setup employs the mo-
tor longitudinally behind the front axle with separated gearbox and transfer case, and propeller shafts
transmitting power to the differential gears front and rear. Four-link rigid suspension is employed front
and rear, with CVA oil dampers for all-encompassing control, even on tricky rock sections. This model
comes with 12-spoke wheels and semi-pneumatic rubber tires..

TAMIYAUSA TAMIYAUSA TAMIYAUSA TAMIYAUSA TAMIYAUSA

OFFICIAL

Tamiya America, Inc. 36 Discovery, Ste 200, Irvine, CA 92618 (800) 826-4922 www.tamiyausa.com
FEATURE

AT A GLANCE
TYPE
Crawler

SCALE
1/10
DRIVETRAIN
4WD
POWER
Electric
BUILD
RTR
PRICE
$499.99

24 RCCarAction.com
TRAXXAS TRX-4 LAND
ROVER DEFENDER
Text and Images by Jerry Tsai

The Land Rover Defender 110 is a

legendary off-road vehicle that has
become an off-roading icon. Known
for its ruggedness and durability, it
has been used by farmers, military
forces and adventurers around the
world for decades. Its boxy design
and go-anywhere capabilities have
made it a favorite among off-road
enthusiasts, and its status as a classic
is cemented by its appearance in
numerous films and television shows.
Despite being discontinued by Land
Rover in 2016, the Defender 110
remains a highly sought-after vehicle
and is still venerated by its legions of
fans. Its reputation as a reliable and
tough vehicle makes it a symbol of
adventure and exploration, and it will
always be remembered as a legend in
the off-road world. Although no longer
in production, the iconic Defender
lives on in RC form thanks to the
radio-control experts at Traxxas. The
updated TRX-4 Land Rover Defender
is the latest entry into Traxxas’ much-
loved TRX-4 line.

JULY 2023 25
FEATURE

The TRX-4 Defender is packed

with scale features and
serious crawling performance.

LEGENDARY SLASH
This legendary TRX-4 derived Defender 110 RC
crawler is packed with scale features and inherent
performance that has the potential to please die-
hard RC crawler drivers and casual bashers alike.
A standout feature of the TRX-4 chassis is its portal
axles, which give the truck extra lift over other non-

High-clearance
portal-equipped crawlers. This additional ground
clearance allows the TRX-4 to confidently crawl over
obstacles that might stop other trucks in their tracks. bumper
The Defender is fitted with highly capable 1.9-inch-
diameter wheels that are mounted with all-terrain
Traxxas Canyon Trail tires. These aggressive S1-
compound tires are designed to ride over two-stage
foam inserts that provide realistic tire characteristics.
Combining the portal axles and tall tires, the Defender

This TRX-4 Defender

comes with 1.9-inch-
diameter wheels
that are mounted
with grippy all-
terrain Traxxas
Canyon Trail tires.

26 RCCarAction.com
 possesses an impressive level The TRX-4’s
of clearance right out of the Traxxas Titan 550
box. Whether you’re tackling reverse-rotation
rough terrain or simply enjoying motor is a 21-turn,
a leisurely drive, the TRX-4 fan-cooled, 550-
size powerhouse
Defender’s ground clearance is
capable of
sure to get you to where you need
handling 14.4
to go.
volts.

The TRX-4’s steel ladder frame

provides rock-solid stability and a
12.75-inch wheelbase. The frame
includes molded cross members
that create a rigid backbone for
the Defender that gives it an
ideal balance of stability and The XL-5 HV ESC features
maneuverability. We found that a completely waterproof
right out of the box we were design and features a
navigating steep inclines and Trail profile that serves
tackling technical trails with ease. up a little bit of drag brake
Between its good looks and easy- for smooth, intuitive
to-drive nature, it’s not hard to driving on most of your
adventures. A separate
see why the TRX-4 is popular with
Crawl profile introduces
seasoned off-road enthusiasts and
hill hold and instant
RC newbies alike.
reverse for extremely
technical courses.
The TRX-4 comes fully equipped
with features that are highly
coveted by enthusiasts, such as
a two-speed transmission and
lockable differentials that can be
easily switched on the fly. The TQi

Micro servos for hi/low Steel ladder frame

transmission & diff lockers

Canyon Trail tires

Waterproof 3S ESC

JULY 2023 27
FEATURE
Dual waterproof micro
servos provide high and low
transmission shifting and
differential locking.
radio system that comes with the truck
has user-friendly switches that provide
full control over all of the vehicle’s
systems. Moreover, the TQi transmitter
is Bluetooth-enabled, allowing onboard
vehicle settings to be adjusted through
a smartphone with the help of Traxxas’
optional 6511 wireless module.
The Defender is propelled by a powerful
combination of Traxxas’ 21T Titan motor
and XL-5 HV electronic speed controller
(ESC), providing ample torque to navigate
steep inclines and carry heavy payloads.
The ESC has a 3S LiPo power capacity,
making the Defender a versatile and
reliable vehicle that can handle any off-
road expedition with ease.
DETAIL-PACKED
This Land Rover Defender features a body
styled after the model’s four-door “110”
configuration. The truck is available in
updated colors including black and tan,
28 RCCarAction.com
and is adorned with specially molded
parts such as a roof rack, snorkel, off-road
jack and full-size spare tire. This officially
licensed Land Rover also boasts an
accurate injection-molded front grille,
front and rear bumpers, side mirrors,
LED kit-ready head- and taillight lenses,
and more. The attention to detail on this
vehicle is indeed impressive. Although
we do get updated colors with this release,
the Defender doesn’t receive Traxxas’
innovative clipless body mounting
system that we see on other recent TRX-4
releases. We’re hoping a future Defender
will get that update at some point because
we like that feature that much.
POWERED UP
After charging a Traxxas 3S LiPo battery,
we headed out to our local park to put the
Defender to the test. Already knowing how
TRX-4s handle, which is outstanding right
out of the box, we were not expecting to
be let down. Spoiler alert—we weren’t. The
Oil-filled coilover shocks
can be adjusted and tuned
for optimal crawling
performance.
Defender performed well, as expected,
effortlessly gliding over both hard and
loose surfaces.
On top of that, the truck’s four-wheel-
drive system, featuring the two-
speed transmission and lockable
differentials, gave us plenty of control
and maneuverability. Overall we were
mightily impressed with the TRX-4
Defender. It’s a fully capable crawler that
not only performs well but also looks
fantastic while doing it.
It’s worth noting that the heavy Defender
body is also quite tall and, due to the
detailed parts such as the roof rack and
spare tire, does carry a lot of weight up
high above its belt line. This extra weight
adds a fair bit of body roll, which isn’t
ideal for aggressive crawling. For those
looking for performance over style, items
can be removed to relieve some weight up
top. We, on the other hand, love the look of
a realistic 110, so we left ours as-is.
Portal axles provide the TRX-4
plenty of ground clearance.
 FINAL WORD

Now offered with updated

colors, the Traxxas TRX-4
Defender is still one of
our favorite RTR crawler
kits. It’s the perfect truck
for those who are just
getting into RC crawling
as well as those who
already have a few
vehicles in their fleet.
Modifying TRX-4s has
been made easy thanks
to Traxxas’ line of factory
TRAXXAS TRX-4 LAND ROVER DEFENDER upgrades. Naturally, we’re
VEHICLE SPECS thinking about adding a
few upgrades to this 110,
P/N: 82056-4
which will undoubtedly
MSRP: $499.99
traxxas.com increase the Defender’s
capabilities and looks.
Height: 11.48 in. (292mm) The only question is:
Length: 23.07 in. (586mm) Which parts should we
Width: 9.78 in. (249mm) start with first? Stay
Wheelbase: 12.75 in. (324mm)
tuned to a future issue of
Ground Clearance: 3.14 in. (80mm)
RCCA to find out.
Scale: 1/10
Weight as Tested: 7 lbs., 6.88 oz. (7.43kg)
Chassis: Steel ladder frame with nylon composite
cross members
Shocks: Oil-filled aluminum coilover
Suspension: 4-wheel independent
Differential: 4-gear, remote locking
Body: Pre-painted, decorated, pre-cut polycarbonate
Wheels: 1.9”
Tires: Traxxas Canyon Trail 4.64 x 1.89”
Speed Control: Waterproof XL-5 ESC
Motor: Titan 21T 550 reverse rotation
Steering Servo: Traxxas 2075X metal gear
Radio: Traxxas TQi 2.4GHz (4-channel)
Receiver: Traxxas 6533

JULY 2023 29
FEATURE

30 RCCarAction.com
A UNIQUE TAKE ON A CLASSIC
TAMIYA BUGGY
Text and Images by Jerry Tsai
In the 1980s and early ’90s
Tamiya paved the way for
the modern RC industry,
setting the standards for
technology, innovation,
design and lifestyle
changes. Their iconic kits—
such as the Grasshopper,
Hornet, Frog, and Lunch
Box—introduced a
generation of hobbyists to
the world of hobby-grade
radio control.
The Hornet, released
in 1984, remains a fan
favorite to this day, with
Tamiya USA reporting it
as one of their perennial
top sellers. Nostalgic
enthusiasts and creative
minds continue to keep
the Hornet and its siblings
alive, even pushing the
kit to do things it wasn’t
originally meant to do.
The customized Hornet
you see here started out
as Tamiya’s X-SA (Expert
Semi-Assembled) version,
which is a partially
assembled kit that only
requires the hobbyist
to install a 2-channel
receiver, steering servo
and battery.
JULY 2023 31
FEATURE

The lowered suspension

gives this Hornet an
aggressive stance.

THE INSPIRATION
Regular readers of RCCA may remember a “slammed”
Hornet that I outfitted in similar fashion a couple of
years ago. I have since updated the low-riding buggy style
and adapted it to this X-SA Hornet. I embarked on my
slammed Hornet project after being inspired by a group
of RC customizers in Japan who were creating a unique
style that I refer to as “slambug” or “slammed buggy.”
These modified buggies were not built for performance
but rather for their eye-catching appearance.

After seeing them during a trip to Japan, I knew I had

to build my own version of a lowered and widened RC
buggy. Since building my first lowriding Hornet, I’ve been

The deep-dish
wheels come
from a Tamiya
Stadium
Blitzer, while
the tires are
from a Tamiya
Blitzer Beetle.

32 RCCarAction.com
itching to build another. This
brings us up to date on the
genesis of this latest special
project.
THE BUILD
As mentioned earlier, the
X-SA Hornet only requires
a 2-channel radio system
and steering servo to be
installed. Being that it was a
pre-assembled vehicle, all I
needed to do was concentrate
on upgrades. The Hornet even
came with a factory painted
and decaled body, which looks
immaculate. I love the Hornet’s
original vintage box art look,
too.
Prior to starting the build, I
made sure to gather all the
aftermarket parts I intended on
installing together beforehand.
I dove head-first into T4works
Tokyo’s catalog of hop-up
parts. For those who may not
be familiar with the brand,
T4works is a Japan-based
company that specializes in
slick aluminum upgrade parts
for vintage Tamiya buggies
and trucks, including the
Hornet. The T4works parts had
to be ordered from overseas,
so waiting for them to arrive
was a trial of my patience.
I also ordered parts from
AMPro Engineering, which are
3D-printed on demand. The
AMPro parts arrived quicker
than I anticipated, which was
nice.
The lowered stance was
attained by placing spacers
above the front shock towers
and inside the rear shocks,
resulting in a pre-compressed A minimalist Blockhead Motors
suspension and a decreased aluminum bumper replaces the
ride height. As a result, there is plastic bumper the Hornet came with.
minimal or no damping from
the springs and shocks, leading
to a harsher ride similar to that
“The lowered stance
of a real car when lowered.
Although I aimed for the lowest
possible ride height, I did leave was attained by placing
spacers above the front
a small amount of play in the
shock towers and inside
suspension.
Looking to inject more quality
the rear shocks.”
JULY 2023 33
FEATURE
parts into the build, I jettisoned the
flimsy plastic factory side bumpers
in favor of T4works sturdy aluminum
side bumpers. These are finished
in gunmetal. It’s worth noting that
most of T4works aluminum parts
are available in at least ten different
colors. The factory plastic steering
uprights were replaced for T4works’
anodized pink reinforced aluminum
uprights. I also opted for the Lunch
Box version of the uprights, which
come with longer shafts. The long
shafts will be necessary when I mount
wider-than-normal front wheels. We’ll
get back to this in a little bit.
I installed T4works billet hangers in
anodized purple, which are much
stronger than the stock plastic parts
Tamiya’s X-SA Hornet comes
with a painted and decorated
body and a driver figure.
34 RCCarAction.com
and made a bit longer, at 8mm in
length. To further enhance the build,
I added a stylish T4works billet
motor mount and billet oil cap. The
aluminum motor mount increases the
rigidity of the motor unit, while the oil
cap adds a touch of flair.
I also replaced the stock plastic
bumper with a Blockhead Motors
aluminum bumper that is anodized in
black. The minimalist-style bumper
is sturdy and adds a realistic vintage
buggy look to the Hornet. Although
the Hornet is not a high-performance
machine, it is an enjoyable and
affordable basher. To preserve this
spirit, I fitted the Tamiya TEU-105BK
ESC and the stock silver-can Mabuchi
540 motor that came with the buggy.
To give the Hornet a wide stance,
I went with a set of wheels from a
two-wheel-drive Tamiya stadium
truck called Stadium Blitzer. The
white wheels match the color of the
original Hornet wheels, but these
truck wheels are much wider and have
a ton of lip for a great look. I intend
on driving the Hornet on pavement,
so I mounted street tires that come
from a Tamiya Blitzer Beetle. The
front wheels fit without issue thanks
to the wide Lunch Box shafts on the
T4works uprights. The rear 12mm hex
wheels required a set of Tamiya Frog
2005 aluminum wheel adapters to fit
properly. These adapters push the rear
wheels out a few millimeters more for
an even wider stance.
T4works Tokyo aluminum parts are
utilized throughout this build. Note the
purple billet hanger and anodized gray
side bumper.

Many Hornet and Grasshopper

owners have experienced the
problem of the stock battery
door easily popping off and
ejecting the battery—especially

“It’s worth nothing that most after a rough landing—causing

the battery to scrape against
of the T4works aluminum the ground. I have had several

parts are available in at

least ten different colors.”
batteries damaged due to this
issue. A simple jury-rig fix is
to install a screw and affix a
body pin to the chassis and
battery door, but I wanted a more
elegant, factory-looking solution.
In order to fix this common issue
with the Hornet, I decided to
upgrade the battery door with
AMPro Engineering’s upgraded
battery door.

The AMPro Engineering door is

constructed from durable and
sturdy SLS 3D-printed plastic
and is attached to the mounts
on AMPro’s Hornet battery tray
retainer, which I also added
to my buggy. The battery door
features the Hornet logo etched
into it, adding a nice touch to
the overall appearance. With the
use of two body pins, the battery
door is now firmly locked and the
battery is secure, eliminating the
chance of it coming loose.

JULY 2023 35
FEATURE
This modified Tamiya Hornet slides all
over the place and easily does donuts
and hops about thanks to its slammed
suspension.
TAMIYA XS-A HORNET VEHICLE SPECS
P/N: #46703
MSRP: $254
URL: tamiyausa.com
UPGRADE PARTS
T4works Tokyo Reinforced Aluminum Uprights w/
Long Shaft
T4works Tokyo Aluminum Side Bumpers
T4works Tokyo Billet Hanger
T4works Tokyo Billet Oil Cap
T4works Tokyo Billet Motor Mount
Blockhead Motors Aluminum Bumper
Tamiya Frog 2005 Aluminum Wheel Adapters
AMPro Engineering Battery Door, Hornet Logo
AMPro Hornet Battery Tray Retainer
ELECTRONICS
Tamiya TEU-105BK ESC
KO Propo PDS-2504 “Power” Low Profile Servo
KO Propo KR-211FH 2.4GHz FHSS 2-Channel Micro
Receiver
KO Propo EX-2 KIY 2.4GHz FHSS Radio System
MaxAmps 5000 mAh NiMH Battery
WHEELS + TIRES
Tamiya Stadium Blitzer Wheels
Tamiya Blitzer Beetle Tires
BODY
Mr. Hop-Up RC Decals
Mass/Dam x T4works Tokyo Decals
Blockhead Motors Decals
36 RCCarAction.com
DRIVING THE THING
Now, you may ask, how
does it drive? I’ll be honest
and say not good… but it
looks good while not driving
particularly well, though!
The best way to describe it is
that this Hornet drives like
a rear-wheel-drive car riding
on oiled-up slick tires on an
ice-skating rink. It slips and
slides all over the place and
easily does donuts and hops
about thanks to its close-to-
FINAL WORD
The Tamiya Hornet was a
game-changer in the RC
industry, introducing a
generation of hobbyists to
the world of hobby-grade
radio control. Decades later,
enthusiasts continue to keep
the Hornet and its siblings
alive, with creative minds
pushing the kit to do things it
wasn’t originally meant to do.
zero suspension travel. Chalk
it up to the combination of its
slammed ride height, wide
wheels and widened stance;
the buggy’s alignment is
stretched well beyond its
original design limits, and
the extreme camber can’t
be remedied without major
modifications. But this build
was never meant to perform
well, just to look cool,
and that it does that very
successfully if you ask me.
Creating a unique and stylish
“slammed buggy” version
of the Hornet was fun to be
sure. The result is a stunning
take on a classic RC car that
showcases the creativity and
ingenuity of RC enthusiasts
while keeping the love for
classic kits such as the
Hornet alive and well.
PRODUCT CLOSE-UP
UNLEASH THE POWER & SHINE WITH
PIT BULL RC’S PURE GOLD BATTERY LINEUP
Text by James York
Images by Leigh Guarnieri
When it comes to radio-
controlled (RC) cars and
trucks, one of the most critical
components for optimum
performance is the battery. Pit
Bull RC understands the need
for reliable power sources that
can withstand the demands
of extreme racing and high-
speed bashing. That’s why
they’ve introduced their
groundbreaking Pure Gold
LiPo battery lineup, featuring
a reflective gold outer wrap
that not only catches the eye
but also delivers exceptional
38 RCCarAction.com
performance. With built-in LED
Battery Life Indicator (B.L.I.)
technology, these batteries
are revolutionizing the RC
industry.
UNLEASH THE POWER
Pure Gold batteries are
designed to excel in any RC
vehicle application, whether
you’re maneuvering scale
trucks, engaging in drag racing,
or indulging in high-speed
bashing sessions. These
batteries are built to handle
the abuse and ensure that you
stay at the front of the pack.
STAY IN CONTROL WITH LED
BATTERY LIFE INDICATOR
No more guessing games about
your battery’s power status. Pit
Bull RC’s Pure Gold batteries
feature an innovative on-board
LED indicator, known as the
Battery Life Indicator (B.L.I.).
This remarkable feature
provides real-time updates
on your battery’s power level,
allowing you to monitor it with
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ease while on the go. With a quick
glance at the LED, you’ll always
know when it’s time to recharge
and when you have ample power
to push your RC vehicle to the
limit.

VERSATILITY FOR EVERY NEED

Pit Bull RC recognizes the diverse

needs of RC enthusiasts, and
the Pure Gold battery lineup
reflects that understanding.
Available with a variety of battery
connectors and adapters, these
batteries ensure compatibility
with a wide range of RC models.
No matter the connector type or
configuration, Pure Gold batteries
have you covered, giving you the
power you need to dominate the
competition.

ROBUST SPECS FOR

EXCEPTIONAL PERFORMANCE

Pit Bull RC offers an array of

specifications to suit every RC
enthusiast’s requirements. The
Pure Gold lineup includes packs
with XT60 battery connectors,
catering to the 2200-5000mAh
3S range. For those seeking even
higher capacity, the EC5 battery
connectors are available with
6000mAh 3S and 8000mAh
4S2P options. Additionally, every case options in 2S, 3S and 4S Pit Bull RC
battery comes with a Deans configurations. Pit Bull RC’s Models: Hard Case and Soft
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When it comes to powering your in LED Battery Life Indicator,
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soft case and black hard source for RC enthusiasts.

JULY 2023 39
FEATURE VEHICLE

DOMINATING THE TRAILS WITH

AXIAL’S SCX6 TRAIL HONCHO
Text by James York
Images by Jerry Tsai

Get ready to take your RC rock

crawling to new heights with the Axial
SCX6 Trail Honcho. Building on the
success of their 1/10-scale SCX10
Trail Honcho, Axial has launched an
exciting large-scale version of the
fan-favorite truck. With unparalleled
detail and high-performance
capabilities, the SCX6 version of
the Honcho is the perfect choice for
rock crawling enthusiasts, 1/6-scale
RC fans, and anyone who wants to
experience the ultimate in off-road
adventure. Let’s take a closer look at
this impressive new addition to the
Axial lineup.

Initially released under the guise of

the Jeep JLU Wrangler, Axial’s SCX6
chassis was an upscaled leap for the
brand into the world of large-scale RC
crawlers. It was joined on the trail not
long ago by Axial’s second SCX6-based
vehicle, the SCX6 Trail Honcho. We
absolutely love its pickup-cab front
and back-half cage look.

40 RCCarAction.com
AT A GLANCE
TYPE
Crawler
SCALE
1/6
DRIVETRAIN
4WD
POWER
Electric
BUILD
RTR
PRICE
$1,099.99

JULY 2023 41
FEATURE VEHICLE

THE BUILD
Sitting at an impressive 33 and a half inches in length
and weighing in at 25 pounds, the heavyweight SCX6
brings a whole new scale to RC crawling. The SCX6
is perfect for fans of full-size crawlers, rock crawling,
large-scale models, overlanding—or all of the above.
Similar to its counterpart, the SCX6 JLU Wrangler, the
SCX6 Trail Honcho also stands tall at 15 inches and
boasts a ground clearance of 4.25 inches. Its sheer
size results in a powerful presence that matches the
impressive performance it delivers.

The SCX6 chassis is designed for optimal durability

and performance, with AR90 axles that provide
exceptional crawling capabilities. The truck’s three-
piece axle housing is reinforced with a molded truss
on top and extra triangulation below, resulting in a
rugged and solidly built design. These features make

SCX6 Trail Honcho

comes with 7-inch-tall,
officially licensed
Falken Wildpeak M/T Licensed Demello Offroad
tires and licensed Black
bumper
Rhino Primm three-
piece beadlock wheels.

42 RCCarAction.com
 the SCX6 Trail Honcho a force
to be reckoned with on any
terrain, from rough trails to
challenging off-road obstacles.
Its impressive design and
capabilities make it a top
contender for serious RC
enthusiasts who demand the
very best in performance and
durability.

The SCX6 chassis features a

three-link Panhard front and
four-link rear suspension
setup that has been optimized
for maximum performance.
The front suspension is
designed to reduce bump Engine details keep things
steer, while the rear four-link realistic under the body.
reduces torque twist and Note the Reefs RC Beast 1000
aids in off-camber climbs servo we added to our test
with anti-squat and anti-roll vehicle. It truly is a beast.
characteristics. The four-link

Dual battery trays

Swing-away
body
Steel frame rail
chassis
Licensed Falken
tires & Black
Powerful
Rhino wheels
Spektrum
Brushless 5684-
1200KV Motor

JULY 2023 43
FEATURE VEHICLE

system also prevents suspension adjustable coilover shocks

wrap-up in high-power
applications. Additionally, all
the links and steering units are
made of durable metal for added
strength and durability.
The SCX6 transmission offers
both high and low gears straight
out of the box and comes
equipped with a Spektrum
S614 metal-gear servo for easy
manipulation of the two-speed
linkage. Despite its large size,
the SCX6 can easily fit into your
vehicle’s trunk or cargo area
for convenient transport to any
desired location. We recommend
taking it out to rock gardens and
hiking trails to truly put it to the
test.
When it comes to crawling,
suspension is key, and the SCX6
is designed to tackle even the
most challenging terrain. The
factory-installed aluminum
feature oil-filled, threaded bodies
with single coilover springs. “The Axial
These shocks are fully tunable
to achieve the best possible SCX6 Trail
damping rate and their large bore
size provides increased fluid Honcho is a
volume for better performance.
The SCX6 also features remarkable
additional mounting points to
allow for further fine-tuning of machine that
suspension settings.
doesn’t let
The Axial SCX6 Trail Honcho
is a remarkable machine that darkness
doesn’t let darkness stop it from
crawling. Its LED headlights and stop it from
taillights offer an additional
dose of realism and ensure that
the fun never has to end. The
crawling.“
chunky, 7-inch-tall, officially
licensed Falken Wildpeak M/T
tires provide excellent grip and
ground clearance for all kinds
of off-road surfaces, while the
licensed Black Rhino Primm
injection-molded, three-

44 RCCarAction.com
We added a Reefs
RC 422HD V2
servo to augment piece beadlock wheels
the two-speed enable easy removal and
transmission’s replacement of the tires
shifting without glue.
capabilities on
this hefty rig. The RTR crawler comes
with a Spektrum DX3
radio that features
exclusive Spektrum Smart
technology. With the
installed Firma 120A Smart
sensored brushless crawler
ESC, it is ready to deliver
telemetry advantages.
The Spektrum Smart LiPo
The SCX6’s battery allows you to view
chassis vehicle battery capacity on
is neatly the transmitter’s voltage
packaged and
level indicator. For more
well-balanced.
information about the
SCX6’s performance, an
optional Spektrum BT2000
Bluetooth module can be
installed in the radio. In
combination with the free
Spektrum Dashboard app
on your smart device, you’ll
have access to Smart real-
time telemetry.

Extra-large oil-filled coilovers

allow this 35-pound truck to glide
over rough terrain without an
issue. The shocks can be tuned to
match your requirements.

JULY 2023 45
FEATURE VEHICLE

We absolutely love the Trail

Treal Hobby’s Honcho’s pickup-cab front

and back-half cage look.

SCX6 Upgrades
If you’re looking to
upgrade your SCX6,
check out some
great aftermarket
parts that are sure
to make your ride
stand out from the
others on the trail.
These featured items
are available at
trealhobby.com

SCX6 Center Skid Plate We installed Rock

Pirates RC side bed
MSRP: $89 panels on our test
vehicle. They are
made of aluminum
and help add an
even tougher look
to the Trail Honcho.

SCX6 Servo Mount

MSRP: $25.98

46 RCCarAction.com
AXIAL SCX6 TRAIL HONCHO
VEHICLE SPECS

P/N: AXI05001T1
MSRP: $1,099.99
axialracing.com
horizonhobby.com

Height: 14.55 in. (370mm)

Length: 33.55 in. (776mm)
Width: 14.88 in. (378mm)
Wheelbase: 19.74 in. (501mm)
Ground Clearance: 4.25 in. (108mm)
Scale: 1/6
Weight as tested: 25 lbs. (11.3 kg)
Chassis: Stamped steel
Shocks: Aluminum oil-filled coilover
Suspension: Three-link front, four-link rear
Differential: Locked
Body: Pre-painted, decorated, pre-cut
polycarbonate
Wheels: Black Rhino Primm 3-piece beadlocks
Tires: 7” Falken Wildpeak M/T
Speed Control: Spektrum Firma 120A Smart
sensored brushless crawler ESC
Motor: Spektrum Firma 1200kV sensored
brushless
Steering Servo: Spektrum 1/6 40kg waterproof
digital
Radio: Spektrum DX3 Smart transmitter with
thumb steer
Receiver: Spektrum 5-channel DSMR sport
receiver
FINAL WORD
With its durable and rugged
design, the SCX6 Trail Honcho
is built to withstand even the
toughest of terrain, while its
high-performance features
make it an exceptional choice
for experienced drivers.
Additionally, its user-friendly
design and intuitive controls
make it a great option for those
new to the hobby, offering
an easy-to-operate machine
that still delivers on power
and excitement. Overall, this
versatile and exciting RC vehicle
is sure to provide endless
entertainment for all types of
off-road enthusiasts.

JULY 2023 47
FEATURE

AT A GLANCE
TYPE
Off-road
SCALE
1/10
DRIVETRAIN
2WD
POWER
Electric
BUILD
RTR
PRICE
$239.99

48 RCCarAction.com
BEHIND THE WHEEL OF ARRMA’S VORTEKS
BOOST 4X2 STADIUM TRUCK
Text and Images by Lauren Short
The list of entry-level-focused RTR vehicles has
grown significantly in recent years, and though
plenty of these vehicles make for a great starting
point, very few of them introduce new enthusiasts to
the process of upgrading their vehicles as they grow
with the hobby. Luckily, Arrma has developed a full
line of vehicles with that exact thing in mind. Their
Boost series trucks are prime examples of RTR kits
that start off simple and can be upgraded over time
with factory upgrade kits and a full warranty to back
them. In this article we are going to take a closer look
at one of the vehicles in the Arrma Boost lineup, the
Vorteks 4x2 Stadium Truck.
JULY2023 49
FEATURE

BUILT TO LAST
Just like the other models in the Boost lineup, the Vorteks 4x2 is
designed to cope with plenty of crashes, flips, and other hard use Large-bore
coilover shocks
from regular bash sessions. The chassis is manufactured from a
super-strong composite plastic and features a smooth underside
that keeps the truck from getting caught on obstacles. Large skid
plates sit at the front and rear of the chassis, which is complete
with equally strong front and rear bumpers. All the underside
hardware is also countersunk to keep it safe. The chassis’ topside
features large, raised side guards to keep out large rocks and
prevent bits of debris from getting into the chassis tub. This overall
layout is almost exactly like the higher-power 4x4 version of the
Vorteks, including the super-strong composite bulkheads.

Working our way out from the chassis, the Vorteks Boost includes
sturdy composite suspension arms front and rear, along with
composite links and front steering knuckles. Arrma uses the same
material on these components as they do with their higher-tier
models, so rest assured these parts are built to take some serious
abuse. To help cope with rough bashing and driving, the Vorteks

The Vorteks
Boost features dBoots KATAR tires
the same
heavy-duty
shock towers
as the higher-
power brushless
version.

50 RCCarAction.com
Boost comes equipped with large-
bore, fluid-filled coilover shocks
mounted to heavy-duty composite
shock towers. These shocks feature
composite lower guards to help
protect the springs and shock shafts
from debris and impact. Arrma
includes a full set of shock spacers so
you can tune preload as you desire.
The Vorteks Boost features a unique
drivetrain engineered around
Arrma’s modular drivetrain design.
Since the truck is just about identical
to the 4x4 model, it features the same
midship motor placement and rear
gearbox design. The rear gearbox can
be easily removed for maintenance,
while the front end features the same
diff housing design with a built-in
placeholder to fill in the void of the
missing front diff. Arrma offers an
optional front differential with their
Tethered
body clips
4x4 upgrade set, an item we cover
installing in this month’s issue.
A full set of Spektrum electronics
is included with the Vorteks Boost.
Center stage to the whole setup is
the Spektrum SLT 2-in-1 ESC, a 40A
ESC that includes a built-in 2.4GHz
receiver. This 2-in-1 combo design
eliminates the need for a separate
receiver, which helps to not only
save weight but also frees up space
in the chassis. The Vorteks Boost is
powered by a MEGA 550 12T brushed
motor that helps the Vorteks 4x2
reach some decent speeds. Wrapping
up the electronics package, the Boost
RTR kit includes a Spektrum Smart
3300mAh NiMH battery, a Spektrum The included 12-turn 550 MEGA
S120 USB-C smart charger, and a brushed motor provides plenty of
Spektrum SLT2 2.4GHz transmitter. power for the 4x2 truck.
The Vorteks Boost includes
Aggressive Front &
Rear Bumpers
Stylish stadium
truck wheels
JULY 2023 51
FEATURE
A sleek rear wing sits at the back
of the Vorteks body for downforce
and impact protection.
52 RCCarAction.com
a professionally pre-painted
polycarbonate body complete with
decals. Our test model is the beautiful
metallic red, a color reminiscent of
classic hot rods that really shines when
in the sun. Finally, the Vorteks comes
complete with a full set of dBoots
KATAR off-road tires installed on some
aggressive composite stadium truck
wheels. This truck not only has some
great technical specs, but it also looks
good, too.
PUTTING IT TO THE TEST
The greatest thing about these Boost
trucks is that they are just a lot of fun
to drive. The larger 550-spec brushed
motor provides enough power when
combined with the included 3300mAh
NiMH battery that it can reach some
fun speeds, but the truck remains
extremely controllable while doing
so. Things can get a little squirrely
when hitting loose dirt, but that’s part

Arrma includes an 8.4V
3300mAh NiMH battery
with the RTR kit.
A Boost in Performance
Arrma’s Boost RTR vehicles have been
designed with the ideal amount of
performance for beginning RC enthusiast
all while keeping longevity in mind.
Many beginner RTR kits lack optional
upgrades from the factory and quickly
ÃcYi]ZbhZakZhjcjhZYdci]Zh]Za[Vhi]Z
enthusiast starts to grow with the hobby.
There’s no question that
the Vorteks is a striking
vehicle to look at. As
good as it looks, it’s even
more fun to drive.
The Spektrum SLT 2-in-1 40A
ESC and receiver keeps the electronics
package nice and compact.
With Arrma’s Boost vehicles that’s not a
concern. Arrma offers an easy-to-follow
path with a suite of Boost upgrades such
purpose-made LiPo batteries, optional 4x4
drivetrain upgrade kits, and even a full
brushless electronics upgrade kit. What’s
even better is that all these option parts
still allow the owner to retain Arrma’s
2-year manufacturer warranty.
JULY 2023 53
FEATURE

of the fun of a 2WD truck. Kicking up
dirt, jumping off curbs and berms,
and peeling out on the pavement are
all parts of the whole equation when
driving the Vorteks Boost. This may not
be the top performer when it comes
to speed, but that also means you can
drive this thing full-tilt every time,
which is a great feeling. Sometimes
higher-power models can be a real
handful, so dialing it down and driving
a brushed truck can be a great breath
of fresh air. This is also the perfect
sweet spot for a beginner truck. It’s
not intimidating to drive; it’s just truly
enjoyable the whole time.
We put the truck through its paces at
the local park. This place is huge and
has a ton of different surfaces, from
gravel and loose sand to rough packed
dirt, large paved parking areas and huge
patches of grass. The truck did well on
all of these surfaces. The aggressive
tires dig right into the dirt and work
equally well on asphalt, making the
truck a great fit for just about any terrain
you might think of. Deeper, looser dirt
and sand can get a little tricky with
the 4x2 drivetrain, but that’s nothing
that can’t be fixed but some occasional Kicking up dirt comes
careful driving. naturally to the
Vorteks Boost.

ARRMA 1/10 VORTEKS 4X2 BOOST MEGA

550 BRUSHED STADIUM TRUCK RTR WITH
BATTERY & CHARGER VEHICLE SPECS

P/N: ARA4105SV4T1
MSRP: $239.99
arrma-rc.com

Height: 6.4 in. (163mm)

Length: 18.5 in. (470mm)
Width: 13.3 in. (338mm)
FINAL WORD
Wheelbase: 11.3 in. (287mm)

Scale: 1/10
Price: $239.99
Weight (No Battery): 5 lbs., 10 oz.
Chassis: Composite tub
Shocks: Plastic, oil-filled coilover
Suspension: Independent front and rear
Transmission: Direct drive with slipper clutch
F/R Driveshafts: Sliding universal joints
Bearings: Rubber shielded steel ball
Body: Polycarbonate, pre-painted
Wheels: 2.8-in. composite with 14mm hex
Tires: dBoots KATAR
ESC / Receiver: Spektrum SLT 2-in-1 40A ESC & receiver
Motor: MEGA 550 12T brushed
Steering Servo: Spektrum S650 digital, waterproof
Radio: Spektrum SLT2 2.4GHz
Battery: Spektrum Smart 8.4V 3300mAh NiMH
Charger: Spektrum S120 USB-C Smart Charger
All in all, the Vorteks Boost was more than up to
the task of local park bashing. I have driven many
bashers over the years, and ultimately those that
end up putting the biggest smile on my face are
the ones like this. Not necessarily the fastest,
but really easy to control and a whole lot of fun
to drive. What’s better is that Arrma provides
a complete lineup of upgrades for these Boost
trucks, so you can increase performance over time.
If you’re looking for a great beginner truck, then I
highly suggest you check one of these out at your
local hobby shop. As always thanks for reading,
and until next time take care.

54 RCCarAction.com
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TEST BENCH
TEST BENCH
RC PRODUCTS TESTED & EVALUATED
Text and Images by Lauren Short
GENS ACE ADVANCED
5500MAH 2S 100C
LIHV HARD PACK
FEATURES
The Gens Ace Advanced 5500mAh
LiHV hard pack is designed for use
in the most demanding 2S battery
applications. This Advanced
battery boasts an impressive 100C
output and features LiHV high-
voltage cell chemistry so you can
get the most out of the 2S pack.
The battery is encased in a hard
pack that keeps the battery cells
safe in case of impact. Gens Ace
56 RCCarAction.com
Advanced battery packs include
a built-in circuit board on the
end of the pack that allows for
monitoring battery voltage. The
pack includes a button at the end
of the pack with four status LEDs
to show the charge percentage,
as well as displaying different
LED sequences for things like low
voltage or overcharge warnings.
The Gens Ace Advanced LiHV
features flexible 12AWG wiring
and comes pre-wired with an
XT60 connector. Our test model
featured a standard JST balance
plug, but Gens Ace also offers this
battery with their own G-Tech
balance plug as well.

TESTING

As mentioned earlier, the

Advanced pack is the perfect
choice for high-intensity 2S
applications. Whether this be
competitive racing or high-power
2S bashing, the Advanced pack’s
100C output is up to the task.
The hardshell case is sturdy and
provides great protection for
the internal cells. The built-in
charge indicator on the side is
perfect for enthusiasts with an
extensive battery collection. It
can be rather tedious to have
to check the level of all your
batteries, so having something
like the Advanced pack’s charge
indicator button makes life that
much easier. I really appreciate
these kinds of quality-of-life
improvements; they make the
hobby just that much more
enjoyable.

The Advanced pack measures

154mm long, 45mm wide and
25mm high, a good bit bigger
than a typical 2S hard case LiPo
pack. This is most likely due to
the added internal circuit for the
charge indicator. Though this
makes the pack unsuitable for
more demanding space-saving
applications like tight on-road
racing chassis designs, it’s still
a perfect fit for larger battery
trays found in trucks and less
demanding on-road models.
If you’re at all concerned with
space, though, it’s always good
practice to measure before
you buy. Overall, the Gens Ace
Advanced 5500mAh LiHV pack
is an impressive battery built to
fill the needs of some serious RC
uses.

Gens Ace Advanced 5500mAh 2S 100C

LiHV Hard Pack
P/N: GEA55002S10X6
MSRP: $49.99
genstattu.com

JULY 2023 57
TEST BENCH
ARRMA BOOST
4X4 TRANSMISSION UPGRADE SET
FEATURES
Arrma offers a complete Boost lineup
of RTR trucks to suit the needs of
beginning RC enthusiasts. All current
Boost models are two-wheel-drive,
trimmed-down versions of their existing
4x4 siblings. This is excellent, as it
keeps prices down for enthusiasts just
getting into the hobby, and when they
find themselves wanting to upgrade
to the high traction of 4x4, they can do
so easily with this 4x4 Transmission
Upgrade Set.
The 4x4 upgrade set is a full setup
of parts needed to convert an Arrma
Boost truck from two-wheel to four-
wheel drive. The upgrade set comes
complete with everything needed for
the upgrade, including a pre-built,
fluid-filled front differential, slip joint
outdrives and outer axles, and a spring-
58 RCCarAction.com
loaded adjustable center driveshaft.
All parts are made from the same great
composite material as standard Arrma
parts. The differential also comes pre-
installed in its own outer cage for easy
installation.
TESTING
Upgrade kits can really run the whole
gamut from just a bunch of loose parts
thrown into a bag to a fully curated
set of parts with detailed information
and packaging. The Arrma Boost 4x4
upgrade set falls into that second
category. The parts kit feels like a true
factory upgrade setup. That sounds
silly, because it is a factory upgrade set,
but what I mean by that is it just feels
exactly how it should—a perfect fit. All
parts are packaged with care, complete
with detailed instructions inside the
nicely labeled cardboard box, and
Arrma even includes a 4x4 decal sheet.
The level of quality of pre-assembled
parts is also really nice to see, so rather
than you having to assemble your own
diff it’s already done and ready to be
installed. I don’t shy away from building
my own kits, but I admire it when
companies take this kind of care with
their pre-built parts. It all ties into the
mindset behind RTR kits, which is to
make RC accessible to everyone from all
walks of life and skill levels.
For a more in-depth look into the quality
and installation of this upgrade set, turn
to page 60 to read the installation guide
included in this issue.
Arrma Boost 4X4 Transmission
Upgrade Set
P/N: ARA210003
MSRP: $39.99
arrma-rc.com
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* Save up to 40% Off Lights
* Attach to ANY model
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DIY

60 RCCarAction.com
INSTALLING ARRMA’S 4X4
TRANSMISSION BOOST UPGRADE SET
Text and Images by Lauren Short
Arrma’s lineup of Boost RTR kits
are some of the best beginner
models we’ve seen in many years.
This suite of 2WD trucks provides
plenty of smiles per mile, all
while staying extremely easy to
drive and even easier to work on.
Though the 2WD trim is a good
deal of fun on its own, Arrma offers
their Traction Boost upgrade set
for enthusiasts looking to take the
next step with their Boost truck
by converting it to four-wheel
drive. This traction upgrade kit
comes with everything you need
to convert your Boost Truck from
4x2 to 4x4. Let’s jump in and take
a closer look at the installation
process and our thoughts on this
upgrade set.
JULY 2023 61
DIY
What’s Included?
As mentioned, Arrma includes everything
you will need to convert your Boost truck
from two-wheel to four-wheel drive. The
kit contains a fully built front differential
pre-filled with oil and pre-installed
outdrives encased in an easy-to-install
cage along with two outer axles and a
center driveshaft. The driveshaft comes
with two different lengths for the front
Loosening the Front
Before starting the installation process, will make the overall job a little bit easier.
be sure to remove all four wheels. We Once the wheels have been removed, it’s
may only be working on the front end, but time to remove the screws from the lower
removing both the front and back wheels shock mount and the upper link where it
Replacing the Spindles
Once the knuckles can dangle freely, we need
to replace the front spindles with the new
outer axles. Take a set of pliers and carefully
remove the wheel hex. After removing the hex,
62 RCCarAction.com
section, the shorter being intended for
the Granite and Vorteks models and the
longer being intended for the Senton. All
of this comes neatly packed and fitted into
a clean cardboard box along with a decal
sheet and matching instructions. I found
the instructions to be helpful but slightly
sparse in the details of certain steps,
hence why I decided to write this guide.
meets the steering knuckle. Completely
remove these screws so the steering
knuckle can dangle freely. Do this for
both sides.
carefully remove the pin and place it aside. Do
this for both sides. After applying a little bit of
pressure to the spindle it should pop free from
the steering knuckle.
Once the spindle has been removed,
simply replace it with the new outer axle.
In the instructions this was shown as
a simple swap of parts, but in practice
I found that the inner diameter of the
inner bearing was fairly tight on the new
outer axles. This is actually a good thing
as it means Arrma did a good job with
Once the bearing was fully seated the
new axle slotted right into place within
the steering knuckle. After swapping
their design tolerances and limited the
amount of slop in these crucial parts.
Though this is a welcomed feature, it
does make fitting the bearing slightly
tricky since it can’t be easily slipped on.
I was able to successfully fit the inner
bearing onto the axle by first placing
the bearing as snuggly as I could. I then
in the new outer axles, simply replace
the pins, reinstall the wheel hexes, and
replace the upper link and lower shock
Parts Trays
When performing any kind of
upgrade or maintenance work,
it’s always a good idea to set
parts aside in a tray or parts
dish so they don’t roll off the
table or get misplaced. This can
used a pair of channel lock pliers to apply
slight pressure very carefully to the
bearing on either side, alternating side to
side until the bearing was fully seated.
To reiterate—I want to put emphasis on
careful and very slight pressure; we don’t
want to ruin the bearing or new axle,
after all.
mount screws. The wheel hexes will
keep the axles in place while we work on
installing the differential.
be anything from an unused cup
or tin to a dedicated tray just
for this purpose. Recently, I’ve
really enjoyed using our own
RCCA-branded parts trays made
by RPM.
JULY 2023 63
DIY

Installing the Diff & Driveshaft

Now it’s time to install the front
differential. Arrma notes the four
screws that need to be removed in the
instructions, all located on the bottom
side of the truck. In order to loosen the
diff housing, we need to remove these
screws. Each one of these screws is
rather long, so be sure to take care when
removing them. Just take your time and
be sure your hex tool is properly seated in
place before loosening.

Once all four screws have been removed, we can easily pivot the placeholder that Arrma installs at the factory. Remove this
the diff housing up and out of the way. Doing this will reveal placeholder and discard.

64 RCCarAction.com
 Before installing the diff,
add some grease around
the bevel gear, making
sure to spin it as you go
to apply the grease to
the pinion bevel as well.
The differential comes
pre-built and pre-filled
with oil, but some added
grease on the external
gears will ensure the
diff has a long service
life. After grease, simply
place the diff into the
diff housing. The diff
cage drops right into
place, with driveshaft
spline facing inward and
the flat side of the cage
towards the bottom of
the housing. Be sure to
slot the outdrives into
the outer axles as you do
this and the whole thing
should drop right into
place. Once it’s installed,
simply replace the diff
cover and reinstall the
diff cover screws.

After we’ve buttoned everything up,
we only need to install the center
driveshaft. As noted, the kit comes with
two different-length front sections.
If you have a Senton, use the longer
piece. If you have a Granite or Vorteks,
use the shorter one. Place the spring
onto the tip of the front shaft and place
the splines into the sleeve of the rear
section. This inner spring keeps tension
on the driveshaft and ensures proper
performance, so don’t forget it. Install
the driveshaft front-first and finish
by notching the rear into place. Arrma
designed this driveshaft with heavy-
duty splines to keep it in place. Simply
match up the splines and drop it into
place.

JULY 2023 65
DIY

Additional Tools
Arrma includes a very
basic set of tools with
the Boost RTR kit.
Although they will
work for small jobs, it’s
highly recommended that
you have a good quality
set of hex drivers when
performing this upgrade
and other more involved
maintenance tasks.
Removing the 2-inch-
long diff housing screws
with the tiny included
L-handle hex key would
be absolutely no fun, so
be sure you have some
quality drivers on-hand to
make the work, and your
life, that much easier.

4X4 Performance
Converting the truck from 2WD
to 4WD provided an instant
improvement in traction and
handling. The beauty of the truck’s
stock 2WD design is that it’s simple
and easy to maintain, but after
upgrading to the 4x4 setup it’s hard
to imagine wanting to go back. The
chassis is truly a 4x4 design and
this traction upgrade set helps the
truck to reach its full potential.
With the added grip and improved
performance, the truck brings that
much more enjoyment when taking it
Arrma out for bash sessions.
4x4 Transmission Upgrade Set: Arrma Boost
P/N: ARA210003 I hope you found this brief guide
MSRP: $39.99 helpful. If you’re looking to get the
URL: arrma-rc.com most out of your own Arrma Boost
truck, I highly recommend you
consider installing one of these
upgrade kits. As always, thanks for
reading. I’ll catch you in the next one.

66 RCCarAction.com
Feature Vehicle

A LEGEND IN THE
PALM OF YOUR HAND

AT A GLANCE
TYPE
Crawler

SCALE
1/24
DRIVETRAIN
4WD
POWER
Electric
BUILD
RTR
PRICE
$149.99

68 RCCarAction.com
RELIVE THE GLORY DAYS OF AMERICAN
OFF-ROADING WITH THE 1/24-SCALE FMS
FCX24 CHEVROLET K5 BLAZER
Text by Jerry Tsai
Images by Michael Wiene
In the realm of legendary trucks, the
Chevrolet K5 Blazer holds a special place.
As a representative of the renowned C/K
series, this iconic vehicle dominated the
SUV market with its full-size pickup chassis,
formidable power, and comprehensive
configuration. Once a symbol of American
off-road prowess, the K5 Blazer sold like
hotcakes across the United States. Now, in a
fitting tribute to this legendary vehicle, FMS
has collaborated with Chevrolet to proudly
present the FCX24 Chevrolet K5 Blazer—a
scaled-down, 1/24-scale RC replica that
captures the spirit of its larger counterpart.
JULY 2023 69
Feature Vehicle

UNLEASH THE POWER

“It’s a
FMS has pushed the boundaries of RC design by
ingeniously incorporating a pioneering two-speed
transmission into the micro-sized 1/24 Chevrolet K5 Blazer.
Despite its small stature, this RC marvel achieves top-tier small
mechanical performance. By combining off-road capability
with an automatic transmission, the FCX24 allows RC for
enthusiasts to experience the thrill of both racing and
climbing. Equipped with a heavy-duty four-link suspension sure, but
and a high-performance climbing chassis, this miniature
beast is ready to conquer any terrain with ease. dang it,
A NOD TO THE PAST WITH AUTHENTIC DETAILING it looks
The bodywork of the FCX24 Chevrolet K5 Blazer comes good.”
in three representative colors of the 1970s American car
culture: vibrant orange, classic brown, and sleek black.
These nostalgic hues pay homage to the era when the K5
Blazer ruled the roads. To ensure the utmost authenticity,
FMS has employed innovative electroplated stickers

Armed with
hyper-realistic
looks, the FCX24
also performs
well over rough
terrain.

70 RCCarAction.com
to meticulously re-create the
intricate design details of the
original vehicle’s body. This
attention to detail adds an extra
layer of realism to the RC truck,
allowing enthusiasts to immerse
themselves in a bygone era of
American automotive experience.
THE BASICS
The FCX24 Chevrolet K5 Blazer
is similar in many ways to FMS’s
previous releases. It’s got an ultra-
detailed hard plastic body, realistic
chassis, lifelike wheels and tires,
working lights, and mostly hidden
signs that it is in fact an operable
RC vehicle. The FCX24 crawler is
powered by an FMS Power Dash RS-
S130 motor and FMS 7.4V 380mAh
5C LiPo. It’s a small motor, but
this K5 Blazer weighs less than 14
ounces and has a total length of a
little over 9 inches. It’s a small RC
for sure, but dang it, it looks good.
It has a fully functional four-link
suspension that’s tied to oil-filled
coilover shocks and sits on really
great-looking, red step-lipped,
steelie-style wheels and all-terrain
farm-equipment-looking tires. You
see a theme going on here? Yes, we
do love its looks.
GROUND BREAKING
Where the K5 Blazer gets even
more interesting is when you look
underneath its body. The FCX24
is, as far as we understand it, the
only 1/24-scale RC that is equipped
with a two-speed transmission and
portal axles. Those are two features Any angle you look at the 1/24-scale
that push the 1/24-scale RC crawler K5, it looks like the real thing.
genre from a fun novelty into the
direction of serious performance
vehicles. It may not be there yet,
JULY 2023 71
Feature Vehicle
“This RC truck offers a perfect
blend of scale model precision
and exhilarating performance.”
but we can see small-scale crawling
becoming even more of a thing in
the near future. Drivers know the
benefits of both innovations. A two-
speed transmission allows for quick
driving on one setting, and when it’s
switched to low gear you get a slower
but more powerful crawler that can
take on steeper inclines and slipperier
surfaces. A tiny servo helps switch the
gears in the transmission with a flip of
the Channel 3 switch on the included
transmitter.
Portal axles give the FCX24 greater
ground clearance and therefore more
crawling capability. For a small-scale
crawler, this is essential. With the
portal axles in play, the K5 Blazer gets a
smidge over 1 inch of ground clearance.
This doesn’t sound like much, but
we sure felt it when we took the rig
out for a crawl at a hiking trail. Both
innovations together give the FCX24
plenty to boast about, and we’re loving
it. The truck comes with a straight axle
by default, but an optional planetary
gear differential equipped with high-
72 RCCarAction.com
viscosity silicone oil can be swapped
out to simulate the driving effect of
using a limited-slip differential.
ENDLESS CHARM
The FCX24 K5 is not only highly
collectible but also incredibly
playable. This RC truck offers a perfect
blend of scale model precision and
exhilarating performance. Whether
you’re a seasoned RC enthusiast or a
casual hobbyist, the FCX24 delivers
an unmatched experience that brings
the thrill of off-roading right to your
fingertips. With its compact size, you
can take this miniaturized masterpiece
wherever your adventures lead, making
it an ideal companion for spontaneous
outdoor fun.
The highly detailed body comes in
your choice of three colors including
orange, black or brown. It does not have
opening doors or a simulated interior,
but LED lighting comes standard. The
forward-facing headlights are activated
via the Channel 4 button found on
the transmitter and can be cycled for
low-beam and high-beam output. Clear
windows, molded door handles, and
moveable windshield wipers are just
some of the fantastic details found on
the body.
What’s more, the K5’s rear hard top
is removable and an included light
mounted roll bar can be swapped in its
place. The chrome bumper can also be
swapped out for an off-road-ready nerf
bar, too. A sticker sheet full of different
license plates comes with the K5 Blazer
for further customization. The RC truck
comes assembled and ships with a USB
charger, battery, extra parts, manual and
cross wrench.
CRAWLING TIME
To install the fully charged battery
we had to remove the body, which is
secured by tabs that are located on
the underside of the chassis. Although
it was a bit snug to access, it posed
 no major issue. A rubber-like
O-ring firmly secures the battery
in place. Despite the tight fit,
the O-ring ensures the battery
remains fastened securely.
Once we reattached the body by
snapping it back into position,
we were ready to embark on an
exciting hike.
As we ventured along the hiking
trail we set the K5 Blazer free,
and its remarkable speed in high
gear took us by surprise while it
effortlessly conquered bumps
along the way. It wasn’t until
we intentionally traversed over
substantial tree roots, fallen
branches, and appropriately sized
rocks that we felt the need to
switch to low gear. Once we made
the switch, low gear proved to be
a valuable asset and provided
exceptional control and stability.
During our trail run, we compared
FMS 1/24-SCALE FCX24 K5 BLAZER
VEHICLE SPECS
P/N: FMS12403RTR
MSRP: $149.99
fmshobby.com
Height: 5.04 in. (128mm)
Length: 9.096 in. (253mm)
Width: 5.08 in. (129mm)
Wheelbase: 5.4 in. (139mm)
Ground Clearance: 1.50 in. (38mm)
Scale: 1/24
Weight as tested: 13.8 oz. (390g)
Chassis: Nylon
Shocks: Oil-filled dampers
Suspension: 4-link
Body: Pre-painted, hard plastic
Wheels: Red steelies
Tires: All-terrain
ESC/Receiver: FMS combination unit
Motor: FMS Power Dash RS-S130
Radio: FMS V3 (4-channel)
Charger: FMS USB
Battery: FMS 7.4V 380mAh 5C LiPo
the FXC24’s portal axles to
another small-scale crawler we
brought along. Undoubtedly, the
FXC24’s portal axles provided
significantly greater clearance
that allowed it to outperform
its counterpart. However, it’s
important to note that while
portal axles enhance ground
clearance, they also contribute
to a higher center of gravity
and result in a potentially
top-heavy rig. The K5 Blazer,
with its hard plastic body and
elevated electronics and battery
placement, is no exception to
this effect. Despite experiencing
a few rollovers, we were amazed
to witness the truck land back on
its tires each time. Whether FMS
intentionally designed it for such
stability or we simply had luck on
our side remains uncertain. What
we can confirm, though, is the
immense enjoyment we derived
from crawling the K5 Blazer.
FINAL WORD
If you’re yearning to
relive the glory days of
American off-roading or
simply appreciate the
captivating charm of the
Chevrolet K5 Blazer, the
FCX24 is your gateway
to endless excitement.
FMS, in collaboration with
Chevrolet, has meticulously
crafted a scaled-down
version that encapsulates
the spirit and legacy of this
legendary vehicle. With
its meticulous attention
to detail and captivating
design, the FCX24 Chevrolet
K5 Blazer will ignite your
passion for RC cars and
transport you back to a
golden era of American
automotive excellence.
JULY 2023 73
TAILPIPE

CAMP FABRICATION SPEKTRUM/VANQUISH

STEERING WHEEL ADAPTER
Text by James York
Images courtesy of Camp Fabrication
Is your Spektrum DX6R transmitter
looking a little too plain? Thanks to Orin
Camp, the innovative mind at Camp
Fabrication, you can now upgrade your
Spektrum transmitter’s stock steering
wheel by swapping it with a much
blingier Vanquish Products beadlock
wheel instead.
wheel for an enhanced look and feel. A
heavier aluminum Vanquish beadlock
wheel gives your steering input a more
balanced feel and allows subtle steering
movements for those moments that
demand extra precision. A Traxxas
TQ foam fits over it for extra grip and
cushion.
We’re loving how this upgrade really
gives this DX6R a distinctive look. We’re
betting it feels nice in the hand, too.
The two-piece steering wheel adapter is
3D-printed by and available directly from
Camp Fabrication. The Vanquish wheel
and Traxxas foam are sold separately.

Camp Fabrication has created a

two-piece adapter that allows you to
upgrade your transmitter’s steering

Camp Fabrication
Camp Fabrication Spektrum/Vanquish Steering Wheel Adapter
Facebook: facebook.com/groups/365132545627467/

74 RCCarAction.com
 DRIFT
RDS RDS KIT
1:10 2WD 1:10 2WD

READY TO RUN UNASSEMBLED • NO ELECTRONICS

BASH
MACHETE 4S MACHETE 6S
1:6 4WD 1:6 4WD

READY TO RUN READY TO RUN

SCALE
GEN9 SCOUT 800A DESIGNERS SHOW KIT
1:10 2-Speed 4WD LRH285 Hopper

READY TO RUN PRE-ASSEMBLED • NO ELECTRONICS • MOTOR INCLUDED

REDCATRACING.com
 Traxxas High Trail Edition™ TRX-4 models are the biggest and baddest trucks on the trail
and now classic Blazer fans have reason to celebrate. The 1972 Chevrolet® K5 Blazer
gets the full High Trail treatment with a big, lifted stance and beautifully detailed
body. K5 Blazer High Trail Edition delivers more of what you crave—extreme all-terrain
capability, stunning scale looks, and Traxxas-Tough™ durability.

OVER 1 INCH ADDITIONAL GROUND CLEARANCE!

FACTORY-INSTALLED CHROME CLIPLESS

LONG ARM LIFT KIT SCALE DETAILS BODY MOUNTING

GM used under
license to Traxxas.
© Copyright Traxxas 2023 ART-789