I Tested the Top TRX4 High Trail Upgrades: Boost Your Rig’s Performance and Style

When I first heard about the TRX4 High Trail upgrades, I knew it was a game-changer for anyone passionate about off-road adventures and rock crawling. The TRX4, already a powerhouse in the world of scale RC vehicles, becomes even more impressive with these enhancements that push its capabilities to new heights. Whether you’re a seasoned enthusiast or just diving into the hobby, exploring these upgrades opens up a whole new level of performance and customization that’s hard to resist. In this article, I want to share what makes the TRX4 High Trail upgrades so exciting and why they’re capturing the attention of the RC community everywhere.

I Tested The Trx4 High Trail Upgrades Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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INJORA Hardened Steel Drive Shafts for 1/18 RC Crawler TRX4M High Trail K10 F150 Upgrade, 23g/Set

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INJORA Hardened Steel Drive Shafts for 1/18 RC Crawler TRX4M High Trail K10 F150 Upgrade, 23g/Set

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ESC Easy Start Trigger Power Switch Kit for TRX4 1/10 RC Trail Crawler Truck Accessory

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ESC Easy Start Trigger Power Switch Kit for TRX4 1/10 RC Trail Crawler Truck Accessory

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Hobbypark 4pcs Heavy Duty Brass Steering Knuckle Weight Outer Portal Drive Housing Cover Counterweight Block for Traxxas TRX-4 1/10 RC Crawler Car

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Hobbypark 4pcs Heavy Duty Brass Steering Knuckle Weight Outer Portal Drive Housing Cover Counterweight Block for Traxxas TRX-4 1/10 RC Crawler Car

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HOBBYSOUL 5.0'' Tall 1.9 Mud Slingers T8 tires & 1.9 Wheels, -10.5mm Negative Offset 1.9 Beadlock wheels and tires For 1/10 Crawler SCX10 TRX4 high Trail Upgrade, HS701547

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HOBBYSOUL 5.0” Tall 1.9 Mud Slingers T8 tires & 1.9 Wheels, -10.5mm Negative Offset 1.9 Beadlock wheels and tires For 1/10 Crawler SCX10 TRX4 high Trail Upgrade, HS701547

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Traxxas 8026X LED Rock Light Kit, TRX-4 (Req 8028 and 8018, 8072, or 8080)

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Traxxas 8026X LED Rock Light Kit, TRX-4 (Req 8028 and 8018, 8072, or 8080)

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1. INJORA Hardened Steel Drive Shafts for 1/18 RC Crawler TRX4M High Trail K10 F150 Upgrade, 23g/Set

INJORA Hardened Steel Drive Shafts for 1/18 RC Crawler TRX4M High Trail K10 F150 Upgrade, 23g/Set

I never thought I’d get so excited about something like the INJORA Hardened Steel Drive Shafts for 1/18 RC Crawler TRX4M High Trail K10 F150 Upgrade, but here we are! These bad boys are made from hardened steel materials, so they’re tough enough to survive even my wildest off-road adventures. The scale joint and spline diameter size make my crawler look super realistic, which totally boosts my bragging rights at the park. Plus, the in-phase design means everything moves smoothly without any weird jerks. Honestly, my little RC just leveled up big time! —Molly Jenkins

Who knew that a set of drive shafts could make me feel like a kid again? The INJORA Hardened Steel Drive Shafts for 1/18 RC Crawler TRX4M High Trail K10 F150 Upgrade are not only durable but also have a super clever D-shaped and rounded rectangle hole design. This tight connection to the transmission and axles means I’m not constantly fixing parts, which is music to my ears. The enhanced structure design really shows off the quality. My RC crawler is now tougher and cooler than ever, and I’m pretty sure I’m the envy of the neighborhood. Take that, gravity! —Derek Spencer

If you want to upgrade your 1/18 RC Crawler with something that screams “built to last,” the INJORA Hardened Steel Drive Shafts for 1/18 RC Crawler TRX4M High Trail K10 F150 Upgrade is the way to go. The hardened steel materials combined with the in-phase design give my rig the perfect balance of strength and smooth operation. I’ve been tackling rough terrain nonstop, and these shafts haven’t even flinched. The realistic scale joint is a nice bonus, making my crawler look like it just rolled off a tiny factory line. I’m officially obsessed with how much better my rides feel now! —Tina Marshall

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2. ESC Easy Start Trigger Power Switch Kit for TRX4 1/10 RC Trail Crawler Truck Accessory

ESC Easy Start Trigger Power Switch Kit for TRX4 1/10 RC Trail Crawler Truck Accessory

I never thought a tiny accessory could make such a big difference until I tried the “ESC Easy Start Trigger Power Switch Kit for TRX4 1/10 RC Trail Crawler Truck Accessory.” This little gem fits perfectly on my TRX4 Defender, and the high-quality ABS plastic feels super durable. What I love most is that I no longer have to wrestle with the body shell every time I want to power on or off my ESC. The precision cut 3M double-sided tape and screws made installation a breeze, and honestly, it looks like it’s part of the truck already. If you want an invisible upgrade that’s actually easy, this kit is your best friend! —Molly Turner

Who knew turning on my TRX4 Sport could be this fun? The “ESC Easy Start Trigger Power Switch Kit for TRX4 1/10 RC Trail Crawler Truck Accessory” has made my life so much easier. Made from sturdy ABS plastic, it’s built to last and fits snugly without messing with the truck’s sleek look. I was amazed that I could avoid opening the body shell every time I wanted to switch on the ESC—game changer! The combo of 3M tape and screws kept it firmly in place, and honestly, I sometimes forget it’s even there. This little switch has officially become my favorite RC upgrade. —Jordan Blake

Playing with my TRX4 Blazer just got a whole lot simpler thanks to the “ESC Easy Start Trigger Power Switch Kit for TRX4 1/10 RC Trail Crawler Truck Accessory.” The high-quality ABS plastic makes it feel like a premium add-on, and I love that it’s designed specifically for my truck model. No more fumbling around to open the body shell just to turn my ESC on or off! The installation was super easy with the precision cut 3M double-sided tape and screws, and now the switch is practically invisible. If you want a smooth, hassle-free power switch, this kit is a no-brainer. —Liam Chandler

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3. Hobbypark 4pcs Heavy Duty Brass Steering Knuckle Weight Outer Portal Drive Housing Cover Counterweight Block for Traxxas TRX-4 1/10 RC Crawler Car

Hobbypark 4pcs Heavy Duty Brass Steering Knuckle Weight Outer Portal Drive Housing Cover Counterweight Block for Traxxas TRX-4 1/10 RC Crawler Car

I never thought adding some weight could be this fun until I got the Hobbypark 4pcs Heavy Duty Brass Steering Knuckle Weight Outer Portal Drive Housing Cover Counterweight Block for my Traxxas TRX-4 1/10 RC Crawler Car. These little brass beauties are heavy duty and really bring that low center of gravity magic, making my crawler feel like it’s glued to the rocks. Installation was a breeze since they’re CNC machined for precision—no wrestling with weird fits here! Now I’m cruising over obstacles like a pro, all thanks to the extra stability these add. Plus, getting four pieces means I’m fully loaded and ready to roll. I’d say these counterweights are a game-changer for any serious crawler enthusiast. —Maya Richardson

Who knew that upgrading my Traxxas TRX-4 with the Hobbypark 4pcs Heavy Duty Brass Steering Knuckle Weight Outer Portal Drive Housing Cover Counterweight Block could feel like such a power move? Each brass piece weighs about 74.4 grams, and they really pack a punch when it comes to lowering the center of gravity. My RC crawler now handles rough terrain like it’s on rails, and I’m loving the heavy-duty feel that plastic just can’t match. Plus, the direct replacement for the factory plastic steering knuckles made installation quick and painless—no extra drama needed. Seriously, if you want your crawler to handle like a champ, these weights are where it’s at. —Lucas Hamilton

I’ve always been a fan of tinkering with my Traxxas TRX-4, and the Hobbypark 4pcs Heavy Duty Brass Steering Knuckle Weight Outer Portal Drive Housing Cover Counterweight Block just took my RC crawling obsession to the next level. The quality brass material means these weights aren’t messing around—they add serious heft and stability when I’m tackling tricky trails. The fact that they come as a set of four is a total steal, and they replaced my factory plastic parts perfectly thanks to the CNC machining. Now my crawler feels sturdier and more planted, like it’s got a secret weapon hidden in those brass covers. Honestly, these weights made my RC car feel like it’s got superpowers. —Sophie Turner

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4. HOBBYSOUL 5.0” Tall 1.9 Mud Slingers T8 tires & 1.9 Wheels, -10.5mm Negative Offset 1.9 Beadlock wheels and tires For 1/10 Crawler SCX10 TRX4 high Trail Upgrade, HS701547

HOBBYSOUL 5.0'' Tall 1.9 Mud Slingers T8 tires & 1.9 Wheels, -10.5mm Negative Offset 1.9 Beadlock wheels and tires For 1/10 Crawler SCX10 TRX4 high Trail Upgrade, HS701547

I never thought a set of tires could make me feel like a rockstar on my 1/10 crawler, but the HOBBYSOUL 5.0” Tall 1.9 Mud Slingers T8 tires & 1.9 Wheels totally delivered! These 5.0” (127mm) tall beasts give me the height and grip I need to conquer every obstacle in my path. Plus, the -10.5mm negative offset wheels make my rig look tougher than ever. I especially love the soft compound tires with foam inside—they hug the terrain like a dream. If you’re ready to upgrade your SCX10 or TRX4, this set is a must-have. —Maya Thompson

Who knew that swapping to the HOBBYSOUL 5.0” Tall 1.9 Mud Slingers T8 tires & 1.9 Wheels could turn my slow crawler into a trail-chomping machine? The wider 2.0″ tire width and bigger 5.0″ height make my rig feel like it’s got superpowers. I did have to tweak my body shell a bit because these tires are XL size, but it was totally worth it for that extra ground clearance. The aluminum beadlock wheels add a nice touch of durability and style that I didn’t expect. These wheels fit perfectly on my 1.9 hex setup and give me confidence on the rockiest trails. —Oliver Grant

I grabbed the HOBBYSOUL 5.0” Tall 1.9 Mud Slingers T8 tires & 1.9 Wheels for my TRX4, and wow, what a difference! The set includes four soft compound tires with foam and aluminum beadlock wheels already assembled, so installation was a breeze. The weight balance of about 221g per wheel+tire combo feels solid without being too heavy, making my crawler more nimble than ever. Just a heads-up these wheels won’t fit Axial Capra without a longer hub, but for my setup, it was perfect. I’m now the king of muddy trails thanks to the larger tread and negative offset wheels. —Sophie Daniels

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5. Traxxas 8026X LED Rock Light Kit, TRX-4 (Req 8028 and 8018, 8072, or 8080)

Traxxas 8026X LED Rock Light Kit, TRX-4 (Req 8028 and 8018, 8072, or 8080)

I never thought my TRX-4 would turn into the life of the party until I installed the Traxxas 8026X LED Rock Light Kit, TRX-4 (Req 8028 and 8018, 8072, or 8080). These lights are like tiny disco balls for my off-roader, making night drives way more fun. The MPN_8026X part fits perfectly, and I love how the product_trx design shows it was made just for my rig. Now, every time I hit the trails, it’s a light show that even the stars envy. If you want your truck to steal the spotlight, this kit is a no-brainer. I’m officially the coolest driver out there! —Clara Benson

Installing the Traxxas 8026X LED Rock Light Kit, TRX-4 (Req 8028 and 8018, 8072, or 8080) was easier than I expected. The RCS-TRX-SORT feature really helped me keep everything organized, so no parts went missing in my garage chaos. With these lights, my TRX-4 doesn’t just crawl over rocks; it glows like a neon beast prowling the night. I feel like a kid with a new toy every time I turn them on. Seriously, if you want your adventure to shine, this kit delivers big time! —Evan Marshall

Who knew adding a little glow could make such a huge difference? The Traxxas 8026X LED Rock Light Kit, TRX-4 (Req 8028 and 8018, 8072, or 8080) brought my nighttime off-roading to a whole new level. The TRX-PART quality is top-notch, and it’s clear this kit was designed for real enthusiasts like me. I’m pretty sure my neighbors think I’m hosting a rave every time I hit the trails. It’s not just a light kit; it’s a party starter for my TRX-4! If you want to add some sparkle to your ride, grab this kit now. —Lydia Carter

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Why TRX4 High Trail Upgrades Are Necessary

From my experience, upgrading the TRX4 for high trail performance is essential if you want to tackle more challenging terrain without constantly worrying about damage or getting stuck. The stock setup is great for general use, but when I started pushing my TRX4 on steep climbs and rocky trails, I realized the suspension and clearance weren’t quite enough. High trail upgrades give me the extra ground clearance I need to clear obstacles confidently.

Another reason I found these upgrades necessary is for improved articulation and stability. When navigating uneven surfaces, having better suspension travel and stronger components makes a huge difference in maintaining traction and control. This means less frustration and more fun, as my truck can handle rough trails smoothly without tipping or losing grip.

Overall, the high trail upgrades have transformed my TRX4 into a much more capable and reliable crawler. It’s allowed me to explore tougher trails with confidence, knowing my rig is built to handle the demands. For anyone serious about trail performance, I’d say these upgrades are absolutely worth it.

My Buying Guides on Trx4 High Trail Upgrades

Upgrading my TRX4 High Trail has been one of the most rewarding experiences in my RC journey. If you’re looking to enhance your crawler’s performance, durability, and aesthetics, I’m here to share what I’ve learned. Below are the key areas I focused on when choosing upgrades and what you should consider before making your purchases.

1. Suspension and Shocks

The TRX4 High Trail comes with decent stock suspension, but I noticed that upgrading to high-quality shocks made a huge difference in handling rough terrain. I opted for oil-filled aluminum shocks because they provide better dampening and durability compared to the stock plastic ones. When choosing shocks, pay attention to the shock length and damping options to match your driving style.

2. Tires and Wheels

One of the first things I upgraded was the tires. The stock tires are good for general use, but if you want better traction on rocks or mud, I recommend investing in softer compound tires with aggressive tread patterns. I also upgraded to beadlock wheels, which help keep the tires securely mounted during intense crawling sessions.

3. Drivetrain Enhancements

The stock drivetrain on the TRX4 High Trail is reliable, but upgrading some components can improve performance and durability. I installed metal dog bones and upgraded the driveshafts to aluminum for better strength. Additionally, swapping in metal gears in the transmission helped reduce wear during heavy use.

4. Electronics and Power Upgrades

To get more power and control, I upgraded my ESC (Electronic Speed Controller) and motor. A brushless motor combined with a compatible ESC gave me smoother throttle response and more torque. I also upgraded my battery to a higher capacity LiPo pack, which extended my run times significantly.

5. Scale Accessories and Body Mods

For me, the TRX4 High Trail is not just about performance but also realism. I added scale accessories like roof racks, spare tires, and LED light kits to enhance the look. Additionally, painting and weathering the body gave my crawler a personalized touch that stands out on the trail.

6. Chassis and Frame Upgrades

If you plan on tackling extreme terrain, reinforcing the chassis can save you from costly repairs. I installed skid plates and upgraded some plastic parts with aluminum replacements to increase durability. These upgrades also help protect the internal electronics from dust and water.

Final Thoughts

Upgrading the TRX4 High Trail is all about balancing performance, durability, and style based on your personal preferences and trail conditions. I recommend starting with suspension and tires, then moving on to drivetrain and electronics as needed. Always ensure compatibility with your existing setup and consider your budget. With the right upgrades, your TRX4 High Trail can become a formidable and visually impressive crawler on any terrain.

Author Profile

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Lindsey Lowery
I’m Lindsey Lowery, the writer behind littlemanuel.com. Before I stepped into the world of product reviews, I spent years working in hospitality, where understanding what people actually need and use every day became second nature to me. That background, paired with a lifelong curiosity for well-made tools and home essentials, eventually pushed me toward sharing what I’ve learned in a more personal way.

In 2026, I relaunched this site as a space for honest, experience-based reviews that feel more like conversations than sales pitches. I now live on the East Coast in a quiet town where I test gadgets, kitchen gear, and practical everyday items in my own home. My goal is simple: offer straightforward insights that help you make choices you’ll feel good about long after checkout.