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-   -   Tuanies' TRX-4 Defender & Bronco build logs (http://www.rccrawler.com/forum/traxxas-trx-4/589926-tuanies-trx-4-defender-bronco-build-logs.html)

tuanies 09-24-2017 06:16 PM

Tuanies' TRX-4 Defender & Bronco build logs
 
Since I finally got a job after being laid off a year ago, it was time to treat myself to a new toy. The TRX-4 always piqued my interest with its manual lockers, 2-speed transmission and fairly detailed Land Rover Defender body. So I finally picked one up to join my Axial SCX10 II, SCX10 and Arrma Nero.

While my Axial SCX10 II and SCX10 have taken a beating from U4RC, this one will be my dedicated rock crawler and the one I keep looking clean and pretty.

I took it out of the box and made sure everything was working first. The stock bumpers were immediately removed and replaced with the SSD bumpers. The MyTrickRC light set and lightbar installed.

https://scontent.fsjc1-3.fna.fbcdn.n...6d&oe=5A862AD1

https://scontent.fsjc1-3.fna.fbcdn.n...5b&oe=5A514AAA

https://scontent.fsjc1-3.fna.fbcdn.n...cd&oe=5A3C7D68

https://scontent.fsjc1-3.fna.fbcdn.n...fb&oe=5A3EC640

https://scontent.fsjc1-3.fna.fbcdn.n...db&oe=5A3E2AAD



Stuff to come eventually -
  • Castle Mamba X (waiting for more deans connectors to arrive)
  • Sensored brushless motor (model TBD)
  • Savox 1230SG (waiting for ESC install first)
  • Cut front windows out + add interior
  • Beadlock wheels (Probably SSD 1.9" Assassin Bronze wheels with the brake rotors)
  • RC4WD ARB bumper + WARN winch
  • Knight Customs detail stuff
  • Spare tire cover

Does anyone around here make custom soft spare tire covers? I want one made with the Three Amigos lights on it.
https://discoii.files.wordpress.com/...ng?w=368&h=135

*Edit* Added the Bronco to the fleet - going to keep everything in one thread. https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/201...d641dad573.jpg

Levi 09-25-2017 08:09 PM

Re: Tuanies' TRX-4 build log
 
Good to see a fellow rc'er is back on their feet. Hope you have lots of fun with the new truck. I dont feel bad when i treat myself to a new truck or upgrades as i feel as i earned it working up to 70-80 hours a week.

Natedog 09-26-2017 12:26 PM

Re: Tuanies' TRX-4 build log
 
Sounds great, but no pictures here, did you share your google user content?

tuanies 09-26-2017 11:32 PM

Re: Tuanies' TRX-4 build log
 
Quote:

Originally Posted by Natedog (Post 5751882)
Sounds great, but no pictures here, did you share your google user content?

Crap, fixed the images.

tuanies 10-01-2017 09:49 AM

Re: Tuanies' TRX-4 build log
 
First round of major upgrades completed - MambaX, Slate 1406 1900kv motor and Savox 1230SG servo. Had to use an extension on the servo because the wire wasn't long enough. I dipped the extension connector in Plastidip to keep it somewhat water resistant.

The light controller is now wired in with the ESC and steering so turn signals and brake lights work, too.

Next on the want list are beadlock wheels, tires, RC4WD ARB bumper, Warn winch, wireless winch controller and scale accessories.

https://scontent-sea1-1.xx.fbcdn.net...0d&oe=5A871AC9

tuanies 10-02-2017 07:57 AM

Re: Tuanies' TRX-4 build log
 
Replaced the Traxxas battery clip with Velcro straps so I could fit my 4500mah 4S battery.

<iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/-GpdIXoXgK8" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe>

https://scontent.fsnc1-1.fna.fbcdn.n...67&oe=5A3CE06B

tuanies 10-10-2017 09:57 PM

Re: Tuanies' TRX-4 build log
 
Finally took it out for a good hour and a half long break in with a walk around the park. It definitely needs weight up front and down low, so I'll be ordering the SSD weights soon.https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/201...87e8fb2b99.jpg

Sent from my SAMSUNG-SM-G930A using Tapatalk

tuanies 10-16-2017 11:40 AM

Re: Tuanies' TRX-4 build log
 
The TRX-4 is too top heavy and I had some issues with it falling backwards going up steep hills, so I started addressing it.

I added some scale truck nuts from Yeah Racing to shift weight down low - am I doing this right?
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4484/...ef093800_c.jpg

I kid, the SSD portal cover weights up front will keep the weight down low.

https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4462/...9f960f7f_z.jpg

The SSD front bumper was nice, but I wanted a winch so I ordered up the RC4WD Gelande2 ARB front bumper with the TF2 universal bumper mounts. Of course its not a perfect bolt-on fit so I had to widen the holes in the bracket to widen the mount so it fits in the stock TRX-4 bumper mount.

https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4478/...da27e4ed_c.jpg

All mounted up.

https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4505/...95b95b92_c.jpg

https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4458/...14ca1c7e_z.jpg

https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4443/...79293c52_z.jpg

Since the Traxxas TQi only has 4 channels, I couldn't control a winch from the radio so I ordered the wireless winch controller from RC4WD. I took it out of the box and plastidipped it. The wireless controller is stuck onto my radio with gray double-sided sticky tape.

https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4507/...f34b5c50_c.jpg

Next up will probably be wheels, I keep eying the G-Made steelie beadlocks.

tuanies 10-17-2017 08:49 PM

Re: Tuanies' TRX-4 build log
 
Got my Traxxas rock lights in today. Paid $30 for them from the Traxxas site. It uses a smaller 3-pin plug so I took the plastic part off and soldered some wire leads I had for a large 3-pin plug so it plugged into my MyTrickRC light controller.

I don't use the the turn signal function of the lighting controller so I have it pulling power from where the servo signal cable usually goes into. The light bar uses the JST 2-pin accessory power output on the controller.

The rock lights are bright as hell though.

https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4513/...f47b28e9_c.jpg

https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4488/...485ea913_c.jpg

https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4458/...b84da0f8_c.jpg

https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4447/...54906751_c.jpg

https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4475/...664e3b78_c.jpg

tuanies 10-28-2017 09:15 PM

Re: Tuanies' TRX-4 build log
 
Got my scale WA plates from Sik Ride Designs today. Still waiting for RPP to get stock of the Hyrax 4.19" and ship them with my Grade steelies.

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/201...5d48befbf4.jpg

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/201...1233111197.jpg

Sent from my SAMSUNG-SM-G930A using Tapatalk

tuanies 12-25-2017 09:31 PM

Re: Tuanies' TRX-4 build log
 
Been a while since I took it out, but installed the Gmade steelies and Hyrax 4.19"s a while ago. First time taking it out and there was snow. It's a beast on 4S.

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/201...cef9920b00.jpg

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/201...440c4baf6b.jpg

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/201...e2da76268a.jpg

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/201...71451329bc.jpg

Sent from my Pixel 2 XL using Tapatalk

ScoJac 12-26-2017 05:24 AM

Re: Tuanies' TRX-4 build log
 
Looks like you are having fun, nice job on the build. "thumbsup"
Snap a couple pics when you get her all cleaned up with the Gmades and class 1 Hyrax on.
As for the truck nuts, I can see them possibly acting as a swinging pendulum and on tricky
ascents/descents actually causing you to roll/flip over due to the swinging weight. I'd personally
remove them and replace with some rear SSD portal covers. Combined with the weight of the Gmades
you'll be pulling some sick lines even with the heavy body.

tuanies 01-04-2018 07:08 PM

Re: Tuanies' TRX-4 build log
 
Added a Sense Innovations ESS-One+ to it for engine noises

<iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/60RZU24BgL8" frameborder="0" gesture="media" allow="encrypted-media" allowfullscreen></iframe>

tuanies 02-12-2018 10:51 AM

Re: Tuanies' TRX-4 build log
 
The new wheels and tire + the Slate 1406 1900kv on 4S makes a great tow rig...

<iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/iwkUqo_GK70" frameborder="0" allow="autoplay; encrypted-media" allowfullscreen></iframe>

ScoJac 02-14-2018 07:05 PM

Re: Tuanies' TRX-4 build log
 
Those wheels are HOT, just ordered up a set for my ascender F-100.

tuanies 02-18-2018 08:03 PM

Re: Tuanies' TRX-4 build log
 
Just some slow motion through a puddle

<iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/gXNLZHGVr1c" frameborder="0" allow="autoplay; encrypted-media" allowfullscreen></iframe>

tuanies 02-22-2018 10:50 AM

Re: Tuanies' TRX-4 build log
 
Can never have enough fun in the snow :).

<iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/kZKueKmR4h4" frameborder="0" allow="autoplay; encrypted-media" allowfullscreen></iframe>

tuanies 02-24-2018 08:10 AM

Re: Tuanies' TRX-4 build log
 
I just had to make a quick stop at the hobby shop while visiting Portland and they had the Sunset Bronco in stock and I couldn't resist. Have a 1200kv Tekin ROC 412HD on the way for it. Going to give it a power train suitable for a Malaise era vehicle - a ton of torque without much wheel speed.

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/201...270e05e77f.jpg

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/201...76203e26f0.jpg

Topher Builds 02-24-2018 10:52 AM

Re: Tuanies' TRX-4 build log
 
Dude, great build! That video towing the sled is hilarious. Excited to see what you do with the bronco!

Since you have both the rover and the bronco, could you do me a solid and check out how the rover body may fit on the bronco? I know it will be tough with the genders inside the rover body but if you can take a look I’d appreciate it lots. May pick up a rover body for bashing so I can keep the sunset bronco looking pretty.

tuanies 02-27-2018 06:48 PM

Re: Tuanies' TRX-4 build log
 
Quote:

Originally Posted by Pant Danza (Post 5804444)
Dude, great build! That video towing the sled is hilarious. Excited to see what you do with the bronco!

Since you have both the rover and the bronco, could you do me a solid and check out how the rover body may fit on the bronco? I know it will be tough with the genders inside the rover body but if you can take a look I’d appreciate it lots. May pick up a rover body for bashing so I can keep the sunset bronco looking pretty.

The Bronco has a shorter wheelbase so it probably wouldn't line up.

tuanies 02-27-2018 06:54 PM

Re: Tuanies' TRX-4 build log
 
Today's project - installing the Boom Racing Stealth Wireless Magnetic LED body mount. I have the full MyTrickRC light kit + 6" light bar + Traxxas Rock lights and an ESS-Dual sound module mounted on the body.

It was annoying connecting a 2-pin JST for the sound module + 3-pin cable for the light module before putting the body on.

I was not able to use the stock front body post mount as it made the body sit too high. I managed to find a pair of body posts from my SCX10 II kit and used those. The front fender did require some trimming as well.

Seems to fit and work ok, I just drilled two holes on the body to mount the top portion, which has a small indention.

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/201...611e25a1d7.jpg

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/201...39dea77e9a.jpg

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/201...48b89a1270.jpg

tuanies 02-28-2018 07:19 PM

Re: Tuanies' TRX-4 build log
 
Installed the wireless magnetic mount on the Bronco too - don't have anything wired up though. I did piece together a light setup on MyTrickRC that I'll make work.

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/201...5addc583e7.jpg

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/201...0f3860acae.jpg

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/201...867a97d7dd.jpg

tuanies 03-04-2018 09:37 PM

Re: Tuanies' TRX-4 Defender & Bronco build logs
 
Upgraded the Bronco with a Savox 2290SG Servo, CC BEC 2.0 to feed it 7.4v for 694oz of torque, Castle Mamba Monster X ESC, Tekin ROC 412 HD 1200kv motor and 6S power - it has torque for days.

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/201...02b938e379.jpg

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/201...394fe91baf.jpg

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/201...2e26ff6762.jpg

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/201...839509aeec.jpg

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/201...8e12cbb4ba.jpg

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/201...dea275d581.jpg

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/201...52ea91ebde.jpg

tuanies 03-19-2018 09:10 PM

Re: Tuanies' TRX-4 Defender & Bronco build logs
 
Welp, killed the motor and ESC in the Defender, so I'm hijacking the sound module for the Bronco until I get the ESC back from Castle. It fits better in the Bronco anyways. Got some lights wired up too. Using a MyTrickRC Dragon controller with the super bright headlights. The rock lights are powered by the Traxxas controller. I took the magnetic mounts because I didn't like how much flex it put on the body when pulling it off.

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/201...82e5660899.jpg

tuanies 03-20-2018 09:23 PM

Re: Tuanies' TRX-4 Defender & Bronco build logs
 
Had Krawler Konceptz print up some tres amigo stickers for the Defender body. The irony is I fried the ESC and burnt up a motor earlier this week - even the 1/10 scale model has the same electrical and mechanical issues as a 1:1 - can't seem to escape Lucas electronics issues!


https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/201...8092ca4f31.jpg

ricksonchow 03-21-2018 01:44 AM

Re: Tuanies' TRX-4 Defender & Bronco build logs
 
Thanks for sharing, thats a really good setup, I am very interested with the quick connector, will look into it.

tuanies 03-22-2018 06:11 PM

Re: Tuanies' TRX-4 Defender & Bronco build logs
 
Swapped the SSD wheels and tires over to the Bronco. I think they look better on the Bronco. The Defender will get the G-made steelies back on with 4.73" tires. Also installed my custom plates on the Bronco - the 80s CA plate design matches the sunset stripes.

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/201...82ffdf0cf7.jpg

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/201...9b42b5fd22.jpg

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/201...8c371c3458.jpg

HTFU Defender 03-23-2018 02:40 PM

Re: Tuanies' TRX-4 Defender & Bronco build logs
 
The Bronco looks tough with those new wheels.

What do you use to mount the license plates?

tuanies 03-23-2018 03:13 PM

Re: Tuanies' TRX-4 Defender & Bronco build logs
 
Quote:

Originally Posted by HTFU Defender (Post 5814019)
The Bronco looks tough with those new wheels.

What do you use to mount the license plates?

3M gray automotive double-sided tape + the screws it came with for looks.

tuanies 03-23-2018 08:35 PM

Re: Tuanies' TRX-4 Defender & Bronco build logs
 
The SCX10 II kit roof rack fits well, but the 6-inch light bar is a tad too big.

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/201...a9057c2859.jpg

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/201...a8a8ef5464.jpg

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/201...02d3c67976.jpg

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/201...07a7e8896c.jpg

tuanies 05-21-2018 08:29 PM

Re: Tuanies' TRX-4 Defender & Bronco build logs
 
Dusted off the Bronco for a little remote control therapy after work. Haven't really taken it out since I installed the fake spare tire.

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/201...e5d77f8ec1.jpg

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/201...ffeff271bb.jpg

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/201...f549e862bd.jpg

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/201...18b3691d47.jpg

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/201...e1a2d3828d.jpg

Zippy1 05-21-2018 11:19 PM

Re: Tuanies' TRX-4 Defender & Bronco build logs
 
Looks bitchin."thumbsup"

tuanies 07-04-2018 12:02 AM

Re: Tuanies' TRX-4 Defender & Bronco build logs
 
It's been a while since I took the Defender out, but as with all things British, the ESC fried last time it was driven. Yes, British toys are unreliable like their vehicles. Castle Creations still hasn't shipped the replacement MambaX yet, and I sent it in at the end of April. So it's running a Mamba MonsterX for now. I did upgrade the motor to a Tekin ROC 412HD and added a few Knight Customs goodies though.

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/201...c7bc22ab8c.jpg

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/201...fb776fc962.jpg

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/201...6f85e02ead.jpg

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/201...2fa22ef2a3.jpg

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/201...b5b391d929.jpg

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/201...b3efc903c7.jpg

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/201...a87c8bad12.jpg

tuanies 07-22-2018 05:52 PM

Re: Tuanies' TRX-4 Defender & Bronco build logs
 
Today's project - building a tunnel out of spare wood we had. Next up is a sketchy rope bridge that loops up to the tree and back down to the rock area. I also need to bury some branches to make a log crossing and make a mud pit...

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/201...d6783d797c.jpg

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/201...621acfd803.jpg

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/201...0565d8cae2.jpg

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/201...6821094296.jpg

tuanies 07-22-2018 05:58 PM

Re: Tuanies' TRX-4 Defender & Bronco build logs
 
<iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/qdsS0pKAxMM" frameborder="0" allow="autoplay; encrypted-media" allowfullscreen></iframe>

<iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/iZGesG2SLFo" frameborder="0" allow="autoplay; encrypted-media" allowfullscreen></iframe>

tuanies 08-08-2018 10:51 PM

Re: Tuanies' TRX-4 Defender & Bronco build logs
 
I made a front yard rock crawling course and put the TRX-4's to the test.

<iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/vo1aiXeGMos" frameborder="0" allow="autoplay; encrypted-media" allowfullscreen></iframe>

GForceSS 10-11-2018 12:46 PM

Re: Tuanies' TRX-4 Defender & Bronco build logs
 
Great thread with lots of Defender inspiration for mine. Thanks

Levi 10-13-2018 12:04 AM

Re: Tuanies' TRX-4 Defender & Bronco build logs
 
Been checking out the build thread again. Love where its going. Bronco looking very good. It's the next truck in our collection I'm thinking, for my boy anyway. Love the rc4wd bumper on the defender.

mebeknob 10-17-2018 06:21 AM

Re: Tuanies' TRX-4 Defender & Bronco build logs
 
Both looking good!

Have you noticed a difference in crawling abilities?


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

kincer 10-17-2018 07:39 AM

Re: Tuanies' TRX-4 Defender & Bronco build logs
 
Great looking rigs! Keep up the great work!


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