Best Scale RC Crawler Bodies

The Axial SCX10 III and Traxxas TRX-4 both use a 313mm wheelbase in standard configuration. Most scale bodies listed for these platforms specify 313mm, and that is the measurement between the front and rear axle centers. A few TRX-4 builds stretch to a 324mm wheelbase with an extended chassis. Always confirm the wheelbase measurement from the body listing before ordering.

Hard plastic ABS bodies are more rigid, resist heat warping, and hold detail lines better than thin Lexan. They take paint from the outside rather than from the inside, so color chips can be touched up. Lexan is lighter and more flexible, which makes it less likely to crack on a roll, but it can warp in a hot car and the paint is on the inside, making touch-ups harder. Most scale builders prefer hard plastic.

It varies by brand and product. Killerbody and some RC4WD products are sold pre-painted or clear-coated for an additional charge. INJORA hard bodies are typically sold in raw black or clear that you paint yourself. Pro-Line Lexan bodies are sold clear and require your own paint. Read the listing carefully. Unpainted raw bodies are cheaper but add significant hobby time for a quality finish.

Some trimming is almost always needed, particularly around the wheel arches and body post holes. Hard plastic bodies come with pre-drilled or marked mounting holes but may need minor cutting at the wheel openings if you run oversized tires. Use a rotary tool or body reamer at low speed to avoid cracking the plastic. Test-fit before any trimming and mark cut lines with a marker.