Radios for the TRX4

[Tommy23490]

I tried to search. I'm looking for an aftermarket radio for my TRX-4. I know the truck is 5 channels but can I use a Futaba 4PLS? What radios are people using other than stock? I also like the 5 channel spektrum thats not quite available yet the DX5C. I've never had to have a radio with 5 channels. Any help would be great.

[ElChupacabra]

I run the hacked FlySky GT3C with my TRX4. 8 channel radio with full adjustability. It's the best bang for the buck to say the least. I also have a Futaba 4PLS system but that isn't enough channels to run a winch, lights, individual lockers, and 2 speed transmission. You can order the hacked GT3C directly from Banggood. That's where I got mine. The hacking process is easy if you feel like doing it yourself. There's a million places to find that information.

Here's a great video on setting up a hacked GT3C for the TRX4. I followed this video and everything worked perfectly the first shot. Been pretty happy with the GT3C after using it for 2 comps.

https://youtu.be/FmbfBt5TCAY

[Tommy23490]

Originally Posted by ElChupacabra

I run the hacked FlySky GT3C with my TRX4. 8 channel radio with full adjustability. It's the best bang for the buck to say the least. I also have a Futaba 4PLS system but that isn't enough channels to run a winch, lights, individual lockers, and 2 speed transmission. You can order the hacked GT3C directly from Banggood. That's where I got mine. The hacking process is easy if you feel like doing it yourself. There's a million places to find that information.

Here's a great video on setting up a hacked GT3C for the TRX4. I followed this video and everything worked perfectly the first shot. Been pretty happy with the GT3C after using it for 2 comps.

https://youtu.be/FmbfBt5TCAY

Thank you.. I was checking those out. I've just don't have any experience with Flysky. Is this the one you're referring to?

https://www.banggood.com/DasMikro-Cu...r_warehouse=CN

[ElChupacabra]

Originally Posted by Tommy23490

Thank you.. I was checking those out. I've just don't have any experience with Flysky. Is this the one you're referring to?

https://www.banggood.com/DasMikro-Cu...r_warehouse=CN

That wasn't the right radio. That's the GT3B which is the older version. The newer version is this one here...

https://www.banggood.com/DasMikro-Cu...r_warehouse=CN

Like I said, I like it so far. It's definitely not the same build quality of a Futaba or a Spektrum but performance wise it's been good. There are a lot of different receiver options with the GT3C. Anything from micro 8 channel to standard size 3 channel. I'd also suggest an extra battery with the GT3C. It doesn't take AA batteries like most transmitters. I takes a special LiPo pack. Extras are cheap and great to have. The battery life is great though. I've never needed a second battery in the same day but I'll be doing some G6 events this year which require up to 8 hours on course.

[Skyjacker56]

the gt3c power button fails id for sure get a modded gt3b

Originally Posted by ElChupacabra

That wasn't the right radio. That's the GT3B which is the older version. The newer version is this one here...

https://www.banggood.com/DasMikro-Cu...r_warehouse=CN

Like I said, I like it so far. It's definitely not the same build quality of a Futaba or a Spektrum but performance wise it's been good. There are a lot of different receiver options with the GT3C. Anything from micro 8 channel to standard size 3 channel. I'd also suggest an extra battery with the GT3C. It doesn't take AA batteries like most transmitters. I takes a special LiPo pack. Extras are cheap and great to have. The battery life is great though. I've never needed a second battery in the same day but I'll be doing some G6 events this year which require up to 8 hours on course.

[ElChupacabra]

Originally Posted by Skyjacker56

the gt3c power button fails id for sure get a modded gt3b

The power button is easily replaced on the C. I can’t see that being a good enough reason to have an older model.

[rockhugger]

Originally Posted by ElChupacabra

I run the hacked FlySky GT3C with my TRX4. 8 channel radio with full adjustability. It's the best bang for the buck to say the least. There's a million places to find that information.

Here's a great video on setting up a hacked GT3C for the TRX4. I followed this video and everything worked perfectly the first shot. Been pretty happy with the GT3C after using it for 2 comps.

https://youtu.be/FmbfBt5TCAY

That link took me to Anthony Bourdain videos. Lol.
Here’s what helped me understand the setup for this radio
https://youtu.be/SpIoLgmI1xw

Originally Posted by Tommy23490

Thank you.. I was checking those out. I've just don't have any experience with Flysky. Is this the one you're referring to?

https://www.banggood.com/DasMikro-Cu...r_warehouse=CN

I ran my hacked gt3c on my 60” gas boats for a long time and never had one glitch or loss of signal.

Originally Posted by ElChupacabra

That wasn't the right radio. That's the GT3B which is the older version. The newer version is this one here...

https://www.banggood.com/DasMikro-Cu...r_warehouse=CN

Like I said, I like it so far. It's definitely not the same build quality of a Futaba or a Spektrum but performance wise it's been good. There are a lot of different receiver options with the GT3C. Anything from micro 8 channel to standard size 3 channel. I'd also suggest an extra battery with the GT3C. It doesn't take AA batteries like most transmitters. I takes a special LiPo pack. Extras are cheap and great to have. The battery life is great though. I've never needed a second battery in the same day but I'll be doing some G6 events this year which require up to 8 hours on course.

Get the 1200mah pack and you will only have to charge it once every 10 years it seems.
Until something better at the same price comes along, it really is a great option.

Originally Posted by Skyjacker56

the gt3c power button fails id for sure get a modded gt3b

Wrong- I recall the early versions having that issue, but it was updated iirc. I’ve had mine for 4+ years with no button issues.
3c is more comfortable than the 3b , but either will work.


I’m hoping they release the gt5 6channel radio soon. It’s been overdue since June

[Tommy23490]

Thanks for all the help and info guys.. It's very much appreciated!!

[penguin1]

Im using my Spectrum dx4r pro. Its only a 4 channel but im only using the throttle, steering and trans shift servo. Ive locked my diffs manually.

[Tommy23490]

Originally Posted by ElChupacabra

I run the hacked FlySky GT3C with my TRX4. 8 channel radio with full adjustability. It's the best bang for the buck to say the least. I also have a Futaba 4PLS system but that isn't enough channels to run a winch, lights, individual lockers, and 2 speed transmission. You can order the hacked GT3C directly from Banggood. That's where I got mine. The hacking process is easy if you feel like doing it yourself. There's a million places to find that information.

Here's a great video on setting up a hacked GT3C for the TRX4. I followed this video and everything worked perfectly the first shot. Been pretty happy with the GT3C after using it for 2 comps.

https://youtu.be/FmbfBt5TCAY

Could you use a 4pls and just lock both diffs with the same channel? So they would either be locked or unlocked. I have no need to lock just one or the other. I also won't ever have a winch or lighting or anything that's not already on the truck.

[AggressorBLUE]

Originally Posted by Tommy23490

Could you use a 4pls and just lock both diffs with the same channel? So they would either be locked or unlocked. I have no need to lock just one or the other. I also won't ever have a winch or lighting or anything that's not already on the truck.

I've not tried myself, but my concern with a Y-harness to both shift servos is they'd be locked to the same endpoints, without a way to adjust them. This could lead to binding issues.

But, in theory one could mechancially rig up the lockers so that one servo shifts both at once, similar to the way the lower servo in this image is configured:


All that being said, I personally plan to upgrade to the FlySky myself. For my planes I prefer a name brand like Spektrum, but with a crawler, I've found that I don't need the premium build quality or reliability, but do want something lightweight and cheap enough that I don't worry about exposing it to the elements or dropping it on a rock.

I say this as someone who has a Spektrum DX8 G2 for Air, and a Futaba 4PLS for surface.

By the way, why are you looking for aftermarket? If you aren't looking to add more channel based items, is there anything wrong with the stock radio? IMO, it's one of the best RTR based radios out there, especially for a scale crawler, where advanced features like mixing, dual rates, and Expo generally aren't as needed.

[Tommy23490]

Originally Posted by AggressorBLUE

I've not tried myself, but my concern with a Y-harness to both shift servos is they'd be locked to the same endpoints, without a way to adjust them. This could lead to binding issues.

But, in theory one could mechancially rig up the lockers so that one servo shifts both at once, similar to the way the lower servo in this image is configured:


All that being said, I personally plan to upgrade to the FlySky myself. For my planes I prefer a name brand like Spektrum, but with a crawler, I've found that I don't need the premium build quality or reliability, but do want something lightweight and cheap enough that I don't worry about exposing it to the elements or dropping it on a rock.

I say this as someone who has a Spektrum DX8 G2 for Air, and a Futaba 4PLS for surface.

By the way, why are you looking for aftermarket? If you aren't looking to add more channel based items, is there anything wrong with the stock radio? IMO, it's one of the best RTR based radios out there, especially for a scale crawler, where advanced features like mixing, dual rates, and Expo generally aren't as needed.

My stock radio took a crap already. The throttle trigger quit working. I just didn't want to buy another stock one if I don't have to. Also I've always ran quality radios.

[ElChupacabra]

Originally Posted by Tommy23490

My stock radio took a crap already. The throttle trigger quit working. I just didn't want to buy another stock one if I don't have to. Also I've always ran quality radios.

Traxxas will send you another one. Just call them. Even if you don't want to use that radio you might as well get the replacement. You can sell it for $40-$60. That pays for most of a GT3C.

[Tommy23490]

Originally Posted by ElChupacabra

Traxxas will send you another one. Just call them. Even if you don't want to use that radio you might as well get the replacement. You can sell it for $40-$60. That pays for most of a GT3C.

The place I bought it from is an auto repair shop that carries a few Traxxas things. When I bought it I got a hand written receipt and I can't find it. I called Traxxas support they won't replace it without the receipt. It's only 3 weeks old at most.

[ElChupacabra]

Originally Posted by Tommy23490

The place I bought it from is an auto repair shop that carries a few Traxxas things. When I bought it I got a hand written receipt and I can't find it. I called Traxxas support they won't replace it without the receipt. It's only 3 weeks old at most.

I'd call back 3 or 4 times and complain. They'll cave. I'm also a graphic designer so there have been a few times when receipts magically appeared to email to customer service. They don't really have photographic forensic specialists on staff...

[Pagu]

As for cheap radios, i heard radiolink rc4g is much better than gt3c. Have anyone seen both?
Is gt3c 3rd channel 2 position or 3 position? As i know, 3 pos channel is better for winch.

[ElChupacabra]

Originally Posted by Pagu

As for cheap radios, i heard radiolink rc4g is much better than gt3c. Have anyone seen both?
Is gt3c 3rd channel 2 position or 3 position? As i know, 3 pos channel is better for winch.

A hacked GT3C can be made 2 position or 3 position on any of the switches through programming. They can also be programmed for steps in either direction for winch speed control. It's a super versatile radio. Considering the amount of time I spend reading forums and never hearing of a Radiolink RC4G I can only assume it's not good especially compared to a GT3C. I'd be interested to hear where you read that.

[Col_Sanders]

Spektrum has a new 5 channel coming out called the DX5C. Its a 5 channel priced under $150. I am thinking about buying one for my TRX-4.

I really would like the DX6R so I could keep all options and add a winch, but ouch at the price tag.

[Tommy23490]

Originally Posted by Col_Sanders

Spektrum has a new 5 channel coming out called the DX5C. Its a 5 channel priced under $150. I am thinking about buying one for my TRX-4.

I really would like the DX6R so I could keep all options and add a winch, but ouch at the price tag.

Yup $109 or $129 depending on which receiver you but it with. I want that one too.. Hopefully it's available sooner rather than later. They say late November early December. Because I want one it probably won't be till February..Lol

[Tommy23490]

Originally Posted by ElChupacabra

I'd call back 3 or 4 times and complain. They'll cave. I'm also a graphic designer so there have been a few times when receipts magically appeared to email to customer service. They don't really have photographic forensic specialists on staff...

I've called a few times. I always get the same guy. Steven. He's trying to tell me because I'm not running the stock ESC that it may not be compatible even though I've explained to him it was working already and quit. I narrowed it down to the throttle trigger on the remote not working. I swapped the throttle potentiometer from another working Traxxas radio I had. I haven't gotten it put back together yet to see if it fixed it.