TRX4M Van & Truck

*** I like to keep my models free, so if you'd like to help me out even further, you can Buy Me A Coffee too! ***

This is the 4x4 version of the 6x6 van linked below. This should be an easier build than the 6x6, especially if you are beginning with a defender or bronco, as you can reuse the links, axles, electronics, etc.

Modular design allows you to choose between the van body, truck bed, add a roll cage to the cab or van body and easily switch between each one.

6x6 version: https://makerworld.com/en/models/1372696-trx4m-6x6-body-chassis-skid#profileId-1419434

Assembly guide added below as PDF

PRINT PROFILES

• Cab & chassis - print this to get you started - includes the main cab, full interior, chassis, skid, etc. Axles, links & wheels can all be printed from my other models available here on MakerWorld
• Van Body - fully enclosed rear body section that comes with removable roof attached via magnets to allow access to the battery and electronics
• Tray - truck bed with clip in panel for access to electronics, etc
• Cage - external roll cage for the main cab and van body

PRINTING

Make sure you have your filament well calibrated, your printer is working well and your printing plate is CLEAN. There are some large parts that will be prone to warping if you're not careful.

Tolerances are very tight, which may cause issues with fitting some components, so some post processing (i.e. opening up holes with drill bits or careful trimming with a sharp knife) may be necessary.

WHAT YOU NEED

To assemble body:

• super glue or PLA glue
• Assortment of M2 (for body) & M2.5 bolts (for mounting skid, links & shocks to chassis)
• 8 - 10x3mm magnets (only required for van body)
  • you can use smaller if you model an insert to suit the smaller magnet - hit me up in the comments if you have issues and I should be able to add this to suit your size of magnet

To build the entire vehicle:

• 4 x 53mm shocks
  • This is the size I've designed around but shorter or longer should work too
• Stock length links from defender/bronco - if you want to print the links, I have added a plate to each of the profiles HERE
  • 2 x 53mm
  • 2 x 48mm (or 46mm)
  • 4 x 68mm
• Drive train & electronics
  • Complete axle assemblies (front and rear) - either stock, 3rd party, or download axles housings HERE & build your own
  • drive shafts - standard front and rear from defender/bronco
  • Gearbox & motor
  • Electronics/battery

ASSEMBLY

Assembly guide is attached to this project as a PDF. If you have any issues please let me know in the comments.

SWITCHING MODULES

To switch between the van body and truck bed it's as easy as removing a few screws. See below image, just unscrew these 8 screws to remove the rear end and replace with the new module. 

Want to replace the cab too? While the rear end is removed, simply undo the two screws on the rear of the cab and the two screws on the bumper to remove the whole cab. From here you can also remove the interior with a further two screws.

DETAILS / NOTES

• Large wheel wells allow for very large tires to be installed with little to no rubbing - shown below with up to 74mm tires
• Depending on shock mounting location on chassis you may find that the front upper and lower links clash, preventing the shocks from fully compressing - this can be overcome by installing inverted high clearance links on the front lower links - see below photo
• if installing the truck bed, the space to install electronics is tight - there is enough room to install a separate ESC and receiver, or the stock Traxxas ESC/receiver combo - just beware that you may have issues with larger or taller ESC's
• If converting from the 6x6  version, or wanting to update to the 6x6 in the future: the cab and interior on this model is the same as the 6x6 version, but most other components have been revised

UPDATES

22 May 2025 - Recess added to cab mounting plate for added clearance when using stand up servo mount

08 May 2026 - Parts list PDF added