Traxxas Jeep: TRX-4 Jeep Bodies, Specs and Building a Scale Crawler
A “Traxxas Jeep” is usually a TRX-4 scale crawler wearing a Jeep body. The TRX-4 is a 1/10 4WD trail truck with a 312 mm wheelbase (12.28 in), shaft drive, about 2.6 kg weight, 80 mm ground clearance and, in the Sport version, a Titan 550 motor with XL-5 HV ESC and TQ 2.4 GHz radio. Jeep Wrangler Rubicon and Gladiator bodies are available from makers like Pro-Line (a 12.8 in wheelbase Wrangler Unlimited body) and Killerbody (Gladiator hard body with fit kit).
By Kyle HilsonUpdated: October 20263 min read
TRX-4 Sport specs
| Item | Value |
|---|---|
| Length / width / height | 557 / 249 / 241 mm |
| Wheelbase | 312 mm (12.28 in) |
| Weight | about 2.63 kg |
| Ground clearance | 80 mm |
| Drivetrain | Shaft 4WD, single speed (Sport) |
| Electronics | Titan 550, XL-5 HV ESC, TQ 2.4 GHz |
From Traxxas listings, checked October 2026; other TRX-4 versions have two-speed and locking diffs.
Jeep body options
- Pro-Line Jeep Wrangler Unlimited Rubicon: clear polycarbonate, 12.8 in (325 mm) wheelbase.
- Killerbody Jeep Gladiator Rubicon: hard body with a TRX-4 fit kit.
- Other makers: various Wrangler generations and classic Jeeps.
Check the body’s wheelbase against your chassis; some need the TRX-4’s wheelbase adjusted or a fit kit.
Building a scale Jeep
- Pick a body that matches or can be fitted to the TRX-4 wheelbase.
- Paint a clear body from the inside or prepare a hard body.
- Fit lights, bumpers, roof racks and a spare wheel.
- Choose scale tyres and wheels.
- Balance weight low for climbing.
Another scale off-roader build is covered in RC Nissan Patrol.
Driving
Scale crawlers like a TRX-4 Jeep are driven slowly over rocks, roots and trails. Pick lines carefully, use low throttle and let the suspension work. Hard bodies add realism but raise the centre of gravity, so climbs need more care.
Upgrades
- Stronger steering servo.
- Brushless sensored motor for smooth crawling.
- Brass weights for lower centre of gravity.
- Better tyres and foams.
- LED light kits.
Water
TRX-4 electronics are waterproof, so stream crossings and wet trails are fine; dry and oil the bearings afterwards. Other waterproof trucks are compared in best 4×4 waterproof RC trucks.
TRX-4 versions
Traxxas sells several TRX-4 versions. The Sport is simpler, with a single-speed transmission and no locking differentials, making it a good value starting point. Premium versions add a remote-shifted two-speed transmission and remotely lockable differentials, which help on steep climbs and difficult obstacles. Some versions come with licensed bodies already fitted, including off-roaders from various brands, while others are designed to take aftermarket bodies like the Jeep options above. Check which features matter to you before choosing.
Scale details
Adding a winch, rock lights, a roof tent or a jerry can turns a TRX-4 Jeep into a convincing scale model. Scale accessories are widely available and fun to add over time.
Trail runs with friends are the heart of scale crawling: plan a route with rocks, logs and water crossings, take photos along the way, and help each other over tricky sections.
Keep spare parts like links, wheel hexes and a servo horn in your trail bag, since these are the parts most likely to fail far from home.
Taking your time on trails is really the whole point.
FAQ
Does Traxxas make a Jeep?
Jeep looks usually come from aftermarket bodies on the TRX-4.
What wheelbase is the TRX-4?
312 mm (12.28 in); some bodies need adjustment.
Lexan or hard body?
Lexan for tough trails; hard body for realism.
Is the TRX-4 waterproof?
Its electronics are waterproof.
More on this topic: the complete RC Cars guide covers the basics behind this article.
About 20 years in RC. Mostly boats in the NAVIGA Mini Eco Expert class, with many self-made parts; also a King Motor Baja 5B, a home-built electric plane, home-built nitro planes he has flown, and an RC helicopter. More about SwellRC
