I love rc4wd. But with high prices & nothing new coming out its kind of sad. There are other bodies they could use even to make the new TF3 fresh especially in a hard body.
Right like why the hell didn't they use the 4runner or the 85 pickup they already make that has an opening hood to see the gigantic engine. To kindo of justify the horrific steering setup.
@Steve Vento Honesty....I use to be in retail....cost-wise...this is a much cheaper rig to make compared to a TF2. Much more profit here. Can't say I totally "dislike" it but I'd easily spend twice the cost of the rig to get it like it should be.
@@timohoffmann5768 Using a press with a dye to make a C-channel classic is a fraction of the cost not to mention made much faster than a CNC'd AND powder coated aluminum chassis. The single plastic cased 2-speed transmission with the married transfer-case is also much cheaper to manufacture than the cast aluminum RTR single and kit 2-speed transmission with divorce transfer-case with the midway shaft. They should spent the money on updating the axles. Not saying I'd ever get one....problem is....I'd replace the axles, transmission with a 10.3 transmission(if I'm going to have a plastic cased transmission....I'd at least want optional gearing with a DIG). The 10.3 transmission...I believe is shorter than the TF3 2-speed and that should make room for a servo upfront....get rid of that inefficient bellcrank steering set-up.
"I have to get the charger out of the garbage" 🤣 Really enjoyed this one. I don't know anyone in real life that would see the appeal of an in-depth critical review of a toy truck. This is such a weird niche, but you are all my people.
Well I bought this truck last week, and yesterday I took it to a comp. Well the truck broke after gate 6. I burnt out the 2 speed transmission servo, broke the left side axle shaft and tore the bell crank support of the bumper mount. New parts on the way and hopefully we can get back on track. I do still like the truck . But I think I would of been better off buying a TF2. thank you for the video Matt.
I don't know if I should be worried or not at how similar our videos and thoughts were on this thing! Lovely camera work as always - and those red lines look smashing on it. I reckon this thing can be made alright! We shall see!
So glad I went with a SSD Trail King chassis and the RC4WD Trail King body. The TF3 is goofy at best. Someone was asleep at the wheel using msdos version AutoCAD
I have the TF2 Midnight. Great truck, except for the electronics. Oh...and locktite every screw. I have lost, at least 1 screw, on each outing. I added the AXE system, but looking back on it, I should have just slapped in a 1080 and Holmes 27T and let it be for $150 less than I spent. Also I have the terra flex z-box and shackles. I a ready to take them off, and go back to stock. Way too much rear end play, for my liking.
I have a bone stock tf2 and it's been fantastic, straight out of the box. Plenty of power and climbing capability, plus my 3yo loves chasing it around the house!
Outstanding review, love the honest comments! I have had three TF2 kits as C1 comp rigs, and all three were trash. I bought #2 and #3 because RC4WD had supposedly done performance upgrades, which simply was not the case. The best part of those trucks were the scale body, and the rock solid transmission and transfer case, which the latter is missing from the TF3. It looks like they are using the same chintzy axles, shocks and drivelines as before. Most likely RC4WD will recommend the same $400-$500 worth of upgrades to get the TF3 almost on par with trucks that cost a lot less; just as it did with the TF2. Honestly, $500 for this rig is just absurd for what it is and all of its issues. As an RTR, it should go for no more than $400, and really $350 is more reasonable. The kit version, which really offers nothing over the RTR should be around $300. Finally, this is the 3rd major version of this thing, and they haven't come up with a better mounting system?
i finally bought one of the tf3`s, now its my favorite rc. by far one of the most scale accurate trucks i`ve ever owned and by far not that bad at all ;)))
Since they have a 22R in there I hope the intake they may possibly offer with it has a carburetor on it. I do dig the front 3rd member is off to the passenger side, so that’s correct. I’ve been wanting a TF2 for a while, I’m not sure about this one with that steering setup. Also, that rear shackle angle being inverted like that isn’t going to help flex , that upper bolt needs to move inboard a touch past the lower bolt
Seemed to run the trail better than I expected, it did look decent on the drive. Good review, especially on the shortcomings, this is a wait and see for me.
I'm can't lie. The running video section of this review, is one of my favorite's of yours. It's in the top 5 for sure. Terrible performance, wonderful representation.
Love the fact you're so honest with the reviews. Personal i think you and josh should team up and make a scale rig it would be a killer and other companies would have to compete with it
@@scalebuildersguild that's why with vanquish reliability , Josh's performance and your Excellent attention to detail on the scale side it would be an absolute amazing rig
Got my SCX III GREY JLU RTR last year, still holding up great, and no issues. Got rid of the 4 foot tires it came with and dropped the low gear considerably. Great review Matt👍
I don’t think anyone ever said more plastic is better or let’s replace decent metal parts with crappy plastic parts. If I were to get a leaf spring truck, it would be the TF2.
First off thanks for the comprehensive look at this lil guy, you pointed out some things that others have not. They changed so much I think I'm going to agree with you and say it's a bit on the disappointing side. I could list all the things I'm not impressed with.. but you already said what needed to be said.
I got so hyped when I seen they were releasing a new TrailFinder truck. But after watching this video, I think I’ll just get another TF2. I’d be willing to bet stock vs stock, the TF2 will last so much longer than the TF3 and simply just the better truck.
That rear bumper looks like it fits over which is cool. Would have been neat to see the front add on one be more of a square brush guard as that would make sense to run in front of the stock bumper.
It is a handsome truck though. I probably won’t buy it but I wouldn’t say no if one was given to me. Just my two cents lol. Thank you so much brother for showing us the truck.
You know, I tend to prefer a heavier truck actually. Greater pressure on the tire contact patch creates more traction, helps wrap the tires around the contour better, sinks the vehicle down into the slop where it has something to grab, and helps the suspension overall look and feel more scale... especially on a leaf sprung truck. Just my opinion, but I like an RC that looks scale rolling without slow motion.
I'm still in the same spot I've been in. I want a TF2. A kit I build myself. Not seen anything except a semi-truck that I would want a 2 speed in And I hate throwing away all those electronics. This just went away from scale. Wich is what a Trail Finders strong suit was Oh well I still enjoyed watching the vid 👍 Be well, and have an awesome day.
The steering... Well, it seems like the concept was in the neighborhood, but the execution is one state over. LOL I actually LIKE the idea of a remote mounted servo and a drag link coming forward. The potential is there to totally clean up the front end of the truck, and leave a bunch of room around the engine bay. That "up and over thing" kinda takes it out back and shoots it, though. All they really had to do (in my mind anyway) is bring the drag link down instead of up. I'm sure it was manageable. The bellcrank is a stop gap. If they altered the steering arm on the passenger side steering knuckle and ran the drag link from the servo right to it, it would have negated the need for the additional complexity, slop, and weakness. I'm actually glad to see the new frame, such as it is. The stamped c-section is a lot more true to scale, but looking over the chassis, there seems to be a lot more plastic in it than the TF2. That's disappointing. Anyhow, thanks for a great overview video!
My front suspension does not rebound as well as yours which bothers me. The steering link also hits the oil pan at full compression so i had to add a spacer. I also flipped the rear leaf spring hanger brackets to force the uptravel consistently. Just gonna have to work on that front suspension. I like mine.
Just finished watching, I will say this I have owned two TF2 and a Marlin (Marlin I still have) For today’s costs on everything (bang for the buck is definitely disappearing) I think RC4WD could have come up with more (a lot more if I didn’t want to be nice) that bell crank steering eeesh 😒 the (maybe weaknesses in the trans) it’s like they took the TF2 and made it worse My personal opinion though Great video as always 😜👍👍
I do think for the amount of money they want, they needed a lot better product. Without an opening hood the scale big block 4 cylinder is pretty much a waste of time and resources. And there are so many real Toyotas on the road, finding images of their suspension for reference should have been easy. So I think your review is pretty fair and honest.
The oil cap would be a 6" diameter, nice. It looks more like the 4.5L in-line 6 in my land cruiser. Never had a TF, basically because of everything in this video. The body is still nice, there is that, the body will always be a plus.
Besides the Bruiser-esque frame you pointed out, that steering is exactly how the Highlift F350 is set up. And thats basically a Highlift Hilux body with square headlights. RC4WD must really like Tamiya...
This is exactly what’s wrong with most companies they make a good platform and then they try to make another one better but they mess around to much and ruin it I guess that’s why the trx 4 hasn’t changed much since it got released because it works !
Agree that inner fenders and interior should have been included. To not include those but put that insanely huge engine that you can't even see due to the lack of a functional opening hood makes no sense. As for the steering, I give them credit for thinking outside the box, but maybe more work to do there. Good review!
Hey, I found the video I thought I saw, but better! looks like a military diesel conversion not finished. Paint yellow with a cat sticker and throw some diesel badges on the outside along with thicc axles and call it a day. That was a good side by side comparison of scale!
Leafs for the win, always! They're so predictable and fun to drive. I like the bellcrank, it adds to scale realism; it's much more similar to having a steering box hooked to a pitman arm, that does the steering on a real vehicle. That motor reminds me of a diesel as well. 4BT swap. lol With no kit instructions yet, I was curious about the guts of the tranny, thanks for taking it apart! It looks like there were quite a few upgrades on the Frist Edition one I have from the regular one. The springs were much softer and some other things, interesting. I'm glad to see you're so happy with your new TF3!!! Hahahaha! :D
10:37 I like that stiff suspension. What I wanted is a cargo pickup, to put weights in the back. But as I live in Brazil, the dollar is worth too much, I'll have to wait and just keep my Maxx 4S. Do you recommend any other models for this purpose? Pleeeeeeease! Maybe a good chassis and body, without motor or servo, for me to complete when I have more money.
I’m with you on this one! Even though is a nice truck! Something about it doesn’t seem right! A bit off! I feel the transmission and engine are a bit large, they’ve could have done a better job on the leaf springs on the rear! But otherwise a good looking truck.
They are for sale here in switzerland atm. For 350 swiss bucks. Not a bad price for a RTR from overseas. I have the TF2 already but i will sell it and switch to the TF3. There are so much improvements you can do on the TF3 like a open hood and some additional engine parts with a 3D printer. Nice review btw.
Thanks for sharing your thoughts on this, I’m personally not impressed with this new release. I’ve been debating on a tf2 extra cab mcfly truck, it seems a lot better then this version hands down. My trx4 blazer puts this thing to shame and looks better, they could’ve done a lot better on this one.
Love the McFly truck, but it is too nice to drive it, so I recommend if you want to save a few bucks, Tower has an exclusive LWB red TF2 ARTR for $480. Same body as McFly, just need to add your own electronics, and it has the single speed transmission.
I haven't done business with rc4wd since 2007ish. Back before crawlers came in kits or rtr's. I had built a CFNN custom crawler, with claud buster axles. I ordered some portal axle ends for it. Paid almost $300 after shipping. They didn't make it 4 feet on smooth garage floor, before they broke. RC4WD decided to use the tiniest little bity screws, smaller than a watch ⌚️ screw. I tried contacting them and got shit for help. Will never do business with them again. Hope they go out of business still.
Damn. I was waiting until I saw a solid review on this. I had my doubts. All confirmed. Why the hell did they cheap out and completely reinvent what was once a perfect truck. They could have done so much with what they originally had going on. I just LOL'd at the "not a lot of flex in this truck" which brings me to asking: if after they've seen all of us modding this suspension down to the bare minimum to function, then why do they still continue to sell them this way? Hard as a rock. People buy these and give up on them because of how stiff they are. A lot of folks have no idea the extent that these can be taken to for mods. So why limit the absolute F out them right out of the box so most don't even have a chance of truly enjoying the trucks. Long story short: be happy you have a #TF2 if you have one. ✌
It is stiff as a board! With ours I did some adjustments with the leaf's and shackles and it works a lot better better. the steering is funky make sure you take each screw out of the front steering crank because it slips left and right a bit and always makes it steer crooked .. take one screw out at a time and thread lock it and tighten them real tight and it will stop it. Also I do not like how much it takes to swap out a pinion gear or get the motor out to work on it. it looks sharp though.
Like many others I am super disappointed in this release. Seems that RC4WD really made a lot of compromises when they did not need too. Would have liked to seen them update the yota 2, and maybe do a little better with the trans. Overall am glad I decided not to get a tf3.
A few things that REALLY bother me: of course the steering and giant engine catastrophe. the big ass screws in the tail lights. The ugly screws at the base of the door holding the body on (they really should've figured out something better after all these years of producing this body). And the headlights have almost no texture to them. Basically just clear plastic 😥. They definitely got the chassis and trans shape right though.
The terrain, especially in the river, seems very complicated to me for any crawler to pass through, but note one detail: it does not have a suspension travel, in fact, it seems that it does not even have shock absorbers that help little. Let's say it looks nice, but seeing the performance, I definitely wouldn't invest in that model.
Great and informative video on a truck I will never own. Just can’t fall in love with a leaf sprung truck like this. But interestingly, it gave me an idea with all its steering issues. Has anyone come up with a steering gearbox, ala 1:1, that would multiply the efforts of even a common servo?
Thx a lot for the honest preview. I realy love RC4WD, own 1 G2 and 4 different TF2 ( swb, rwb, lwb ) . But realy sad, that they prefer dumping money into traxxas than supporting their Fans. I once wrote with John and talked to him about some ideas for RC4WD. Little bit later traxxas came out with my idea. My idea was a 1/10 Semi. Well, anyways. I think there will be no changes for us Fans. Keep it going mate. Greetings from Germany.
ya the the lack of a shackle reverse on the front and the leaf mount positions on the rear frame really let me down. I own full size 87 Suzuki samurai and besides the leaf over conversion, the first thing I did was a shackle reverse kit. It also provides a smoother ride because the suspension is working with the forward momentum.
I use to have a radio shack truck that drove just as stiff as this truck. Thank you, I will definitely not be purchasing this truck. Great review and your channel is one of my favorites for my rc hobby.
Yikes 😬 I’ve never had a TF2, but I’ve been wanting one lately. Now I’m worried about it being discontinued because of this new generation. I think I’ll maybe pick up a marlin before they get discontinued. Hope they don’t though!
I had a D90 Heritage at home and was not really impressed with the build quality. There were paint inclusions everywhere, chipped paint on the edges (probably from assembly), cables not properly routed, etc. Overall not what I expected in that price range and made me wonder about the overall care of the assembly and I returned it. They look great in videos, but I'm afraid, thats it.
With this new chassis, Rc4wd solved only one problem of the TF2, which is the center skid. That's good but they created new problems. - Steering is awfull now. - Chassis is not as sturdy as it was on TF2. - You can't mount rear shocks with higher angles. - Many TF2 add-on parts won't fit TF3. - Axle wrap issue is still there. - Still no inner fenders. - Lots of plastic on drivetrain. Also it will be weird if I put a Chevy Blazer body on it with that 22R engine. So Trail Finder is a Toyota-only chassis now?
The only thing I do hate about all the TF 2 is the leaf springs . They are way too thick . They need to be a lot thinner . I built my own springs from 3 1/2 hp - 6 1/2 hp lawn mower springs . This do include bending and hammer drilling the main springs . I torch the ends to red hot and curl the ends and then I hammer drill the holes . In doing this is simple . Use a small punch and a light hammer . I mark the springs where I want a hole . I dont try to punch threw the spring steel I just ping where I want a hole . All this will do is to crush the area where the hole will be . It is to fracture the metal . You will need a metal plate as a backer . Then I put the spring over a hole on that was drilled on the backing plate and go and punch the holes threw . It takes some practice to get kinks worked out but it does work . Once the hole was made then just clean up the hole with a small round file ( rat tail file ) on a drill . Makes out a nice round hole and makes out nice soft leaf springs . I got 3 1/4 inch flex on the rear and 3 1/3 on the front on a main leaf and a vary short leaf at the axle .
Your “nitpicking points” were honestly all of the high points. RC4WD is a good company, but continually fail to understand and put any decent amount of thought into their products. The Yota II axles have had problems, maybe put time into correcting those issues? The leaf springs are too stiff, maybe put time into finding a better spring steel? General details that a $200 kit includes, maybe find a way to include those general details… the transmission, they HAVE a scale transmission for crying out loud, make a plastic mold of it and boom, a really nice compact transmission.
I'm not a fan of the leaf spring trail trucks. Your review just reminds me why. This thing has all the spring and articulation of a buckboard wagon. Also, when you had it on the bench and showed the steering movement. I could see the bell crank "twist ?" at the end of each articulation. That's a pretty clear illustration of how weak that linkage is.
Thanks for your review, I was waiting for it! After watching I think, it's a new trailfinder generation, but maybe the same mods from tf2, are necessary for a better, maybe the same performance in the end....?! What a crazy evolution... But nice review and run as allways! Thanks.
How's the slop between gears on the 2-speed? I'd heard it was kinda bad on the old R3 2-speed from RC4WD so I stayed away from it. Now I see the TF3 gearbox and internals are all new part numbers from the R3, but they each have the same gear ratios. So I'm curious if the gear lash has been tightened with the new parts, or if they just rearranged the same flawed design to make it fit in the new trans case.
Considering all of the screws that fell out and the lack of grease in the transfer case that gave a LOUD clicking noise, I would never buy another RC4WD RC Car again. The price was way too high for something that gave so many problems. The Traxxas TRX4 costed me a lot less and never gave me any headaches like the TF2 did. I was hoping to see that they improved the TF2 but it really looks like the went the opposite direction.
6.7 liter inline 6 Cummins Diesel is a nice touch.
🤣
It took me a little bit to get your comment but now I fully understand. But I believe it's closer to like a dt466 or maybe an 8.3 Cummins!🤣🤣🤣🤣
Ouch!
👋😂👌
The more torque the better😂😂😂
I love rc4wd. But with high prices & nothing new coming out its kind of sad. There are other bodies they could use even to make the new TF3 fresh especially in a hard body.
Right like why the hell didn't they use the 4runner or the 85 pickup they already make that has an opening hood to see the gigantic engine. To kindo of justify the horrific steering setup.
Pros: coolish stickers, 6 lug wheels
Cons: LITERALLY EVERYTHING ELSE
Thanks for the good, honest review Matt.
Thanks for watching!
You forgot to list the second bumper and huge plastic engine as pros. If only my TRX-4 had come with these wicked options out of the box.
I'm so glad I held off on getting this. Thank you for the overview video, this really solidified the many small things I don't like about it.
You took the words right out of my mouth…literally in my cart on tower… guess I’ll go with the tried and true marlin
@Steve Vento Honesty....I use to be in retail....cost-wise...this is a much cheaper rig to make compared to a TF2. Much more profit here. Can't say I totally "dislike" it but I'd easily spend twice the cost of the rig to get it like it should be.
@@tomlucasrccrawlers9108 Hey can u tell us why it is mich cheaper to manufacture. Greetings from Germany
Thanks for watching and I'm glad I could help!
@@timohoffmann5768 Using a press with a dye to make a C-channel classic is a fraction of the cost not to mention made much faster than a CNC'd AND powder coated aluminum chassis. The single plastic cased 2-speed transmission with the married transfer-case is also much cheaper to manufacture than the cast aluminum RTR single and kit 2-speed transmission with divorce transfer-case with the midway shaft.
They should spent the money on updating the axles.
Not saying I'd ever get one....problem is....I'd replace the axles, transmission with a 10.3 transmission(if I'm going to have a plastic cased transmission....I'd at least want optional gearing with a DIG). The 10.3 transmission...I believe is shorter than the TF3 2-speed and that should make room for a servo upfront....get rid of that inefficient bellcrank steering set-up.
"I have to get the charger out of the garbage" 🤣
Really enjoyed this one. I don't know anyone in real life that would see the appeal of an in-depth critical review of a toy truck. This is such a weird niche, but you are all my people.
Hahaha! Fair enough, it's part of the reason I make these videos, because most of my friends here aren't into RCs 😂. Thanks for watching!
@@scalebuildersguild I'd rather you did reviews like this. At least we now know what it is. Thank you.
Your good camera work is the only thing this truck had going for it .
Thanks!
Driving rigs like this makes you better, frustrating at first but i grew ro appreciate the added difficulty
Well I bought this truck last week, and yesterday I took it to a comp. Well the truck broke after gate 6. I burnt out the 2 speed transmission servo, broke the left side axle shaft and tore the bell crank support of the bumper mount. New parts on the way and hopefully we can get back on track. I do still like the truck . But I think I would of been better off buying a TF2. thank you for the video Matt.
Oh no! I'm sorry to hear that!
I don't know if I should be worried or not at how similar our videos and thoughts were on this thing! Lovely camera work as always - and those red lines look smashing on it. I reckon this thing can be made alright! We shall see!
I felt like I was watching the opposite hemisphere version of me when I was watching your video! Seems that we're not alone in our deductions though.
@@scalebuildersguild something something great minds something... Or the other adage, fools' minds seldom differ. Take your pick, heh.
So glad I went with a SSD Trail King chassis and the RC4WD Trail King body. The TF3 is goofy at best. Someone was asleep at the wheel using msdos version AutoCAD
I love how everyone just keeps talking me out of getting an RC4WD rig🤣
Check out the trail finder 2 it's better.
Just get a TF2.
I have the TF2 Midnight. Great truck, except for the electronics. Oh...and locktite every screw. I have lost, at least 1 screw, on each outing. I added the AXE system, but looking back on it, I should have just slapped in a 1080 and Holmes 27T and let it be for $150 less than I spent. Also I have the terra flex z-box and shackles. I a ready to take them off, and go back to stock. Way too much rear end play, for my liking.
@Steve Vento here you go again crying like a little bitc*
I have a bone stock tf2 and it's been fantastic, straight out of the box. Plenty of power and climbing capability, plus my 3yo loves chasing it around the house!
Outstanding review, love the honest comments! I have had three TF2 kits as C1 comp rigs, and all three were trash. I bought #2 and #3 because RC4WD had supposedly done performance upgrades, which simply was not the case. The best part of those trucks were the scale body, and the rock solid transmission and transfer case, which the latter is missing from the TF3. It looks like they are using the same chintzy axles, shocks and drivelines as before. Most likely RC4WD will recommend the same $400-$500 worth of upgrades to get the TF3 almost on par with trucks that cost a lot less; just as it did with the TF2. Honestly, $500 for this rig is just absurd for what it is and all of its issues. As an RTR, it should go for no more than $400, and really $350 is more reasonable. The kit version, which really offers nothing over the RTR should be around $300. Finally, this is the 3rd major version of this thing, and they haven't come up with a better mounting system?
Thanks for watching, I always try to give honest and fair reviews!
i finally bought one of the tf3`s, now its my favorite rc. by far one of the most scale accurate trucks i`ve ever owned and by far not that bad at all ;)))
Glad you like it?
I love your honesty. Very rare when reviewing products.
Thanks! I really aim to give fair and honest reviews.
Like the fact that it looks way more realistic than any other rc even the chassis
Since they have a 22R in there I hope the intake they may possibly offer with it has a carburetor on it. I do dig the front 3rd member is off to the passenger side, so that’s correct. I’ve been wanting a TF2 for a while, I’m not sure about this one with that steering setup. Also, that rear shackle angle being inverted like that isn’t going to help flex , that upper bolt needs to move inboard a touch past the lower bolt
How progressive is RC4WD to adopt designs used on the 40 year old Tamiya Bruiser.
You should send this to Comedy Central as the TF3 Roast
Seemed to run the trail better than I expected, it did look decent on the drive. Good review, especially on the shortcomings, this is a wait and see for me.
Thanks for watching!
Well that transmission makes it sound like a diesel so I guess it all works out. Lol
Basically it looks cool. Let's just say that your opinion came through very clearly. And I couldn't agree more. Could have been so great
I'm can't lie. The running video section of this review, is one of my favorite's of yours. It's in the top 5 for sure. Terrible performance, wonderful representation.
Thank you! That's really kind of you to say!
Love the fact you're so honest with the reviews.
Personal i think you and josh should team up and make a scale rig it would be a killer and other companies would have to compete with it
Except that Josh works for Vanquish... Thanks for watching!
@@scalebuildersguild that's why with vanquish reliability , Josh's performance and your Excellent attention to detail on the scale side it would be an absolute amazing rig
@@richysrc2158 that’s basically the Vanquish VS4-10 Phoenix!
@@scalebuildersguild ha I didn't realise you had input on the phoenix 🤦♂️
@@richysrc2158 I didn’t really, but knew about it for a long time!
Got my SCX III GREY JLU RTR last year, still holding up great, and no issues. Got rid of the 4 foot tires it came with and dropped the low gear considerably. Great review Matt👍
Thanks for watching and glad to hear that you're having fun!
I wasn’t impressed with this latest release. Will stick to the TF2 for now !
It’s like they made the TF3 to increase the sales of the TF2. Genius!
I’m still happy with my TF2, I just added the red super soft leaf springs and it helped out
@@turksandjerps this is 100% "New Coke".
I don’t think anyone ever said more plastic is better or let’s replace decent metal parts with crappy plastic parts. If I were to get a leaf spring truck, it would be the TF2.
First off thanks for the comprehensive look at this lil guy, you pointed out some things that others have not. They changed so much I think I'm going to agree with you and say it's a bit on the disappointing side. I could list all the things I'm not impressed with.. but you already said what needed to be said.
I can see that the springs are softening the more you drive it but I would agree about the rear springs and that dang steering knuckle
I got so hyped when I seen they were releasing a new TrailFinder truck. But after watching this video, I think I’ll just get another TF2. I’d be willing to bet stock vs stock, the TF2 will last so much longer than the TF3 and simply just the better truck.
Bell crank steering - the 80's are back... :-O Def wouldn't mind seeing how you go about softening up the waaaay over spring suspension.
Stay tuned for more!
That rear bumper looks like it fits over which is cool. Would have been neat to see the front add on one be more of a square brush guard as that would make sense to run in front of the stock bumper.
It is a handsome truck though. I probably won’t buy it but I wouldn’t say no if one was given to me. Just my two cents lol. Thank you so much brother for showing us the truck.
Thanks for watching!
You know, I tend to prefer a heavier truck actually. Greater pressure on the tire contact patch creates more traction, helps wrap the tires around the contour better, sinks the vehicle down into the slop where it has something to grab, and helps the suspension overall look and feel more scale... especially on a leaf sprung truck. Just my opinion, but I like an RC that looks scale rolling without slow motion.
Then you won't want this one i'm afraid.
4.06. Hysterical laughter. 😂 I fondly remember the driver figures. That was the best joke of 2016 or whenever they released that. 🤣
Cutter would argue otherwise. Or was it Rick?
I enjoy my leaf spring truck. challenging to drive. Keeps it interesting.
I don't disagree. I just don't think this was a very good one.
I'm still in the same spot I've been in. I want a TF2. A kit I build myself.
Not seen anything except a semi-truck that I would want a 2 speed in
And I hate throwing away all those electronics.
This just went away from scale. Wich is what a Trail Finders strong suit was
Oh well I still enjoyed watching the vid 👍
Be well, and have an awesome day.
Thanks for watching!
RC Everyday flipped rear leaf hangers around . Seems to help some .
Awesome video man. Your editing is always top notch. Sweet looking rig right there👍
Thank you!
Only thing I don’t like is the non opening hood . The rest of the truck seems great as usual 👍🏻
And yes you all know I’m a RC4WD fan boy lol
The steering... Well, it seems like the concept was in the neighborhood, but the execution is one state over. LOL
I actually LIKE the idea of a remote mounted servo and a drag link coming forward. The potential is there to totally clean up the front end of the truck, and leave a bunch of room around the engine bay. That "up and over thing" kinda takes it out back and shoots it, though. All they really had to do (in my mind anyway) is bring the drag link down instead of up. I'm sure it was manageable. The bellcrank is a stop gap. If they altered the steering arm on the passenger side steering knuckle and ran the drag link from the servo right to it, it would have negated the need for the additional complexity, slop, and weakness.
I'm actually glad to see the new frame, such as it is. The stamped c-section is a lot more true to scale, but looking over the chassis, there seems to be a lot more plastic in it than the TF2. That's disappointing.
Anyhow, thanks for a great overview video!
My front suspension does not rebound as well as yours which bothers me. The steering link also hits the oil pan at full compression so i had to add a spacer. I also flipped the rear leaf spring hanger brackets to force the uptravel consistently. Just gonna have to work on that front suspension. I like mine.
Just finished watching, I will say this I have owned two TF2 and a Marlin (Marlin I still have)
For today’s costs on everything (bang for the buck is definitely disappearing) I think RC4WD could have come up with more (a lot more if I didn’t want to be nice) that bell crank steering eeesh 😒 the (maybe weaknesses in the trans) it’s like they took the TF2 and made it worse
My personal opinion though
Great video as always 😜👍👍
Thanks for watching and I couldn't agree more!
I do think for the amount of money they want, they needed a lot better product. Without an opening hood the scale big block 4 cylinder is pretty much a waste of time and resources. And there are so many real Toyotas on the road, finding images of their suspension for reference should have been easy. So I think your review is pretty fair and honest.
The oil cap would be a 6" diameter, nice. It looks more like the 4.5L in-line 6 in my land cruiser. Never had a TF, basically because of everything in this video. The body is still nice, there is that, the body will always be a plus.
I don't think so.. . that system requires a brush motor. Thanks for watching.
That motor is holding all of the RC4x4's worker's! 🥵😂
Besides the Bruiser-esque frame you pointed out, that steering is exactly how the Highlift F350 is set up. And thats basically a Highlift Hilux body with square headlights.
RC4WD must really like Tamiya...
This is exactly what’s wrong with most companies they make a good platform and then they try to make another one better but they mess around to much and ruin it I guess that’s why the trx 4 hasn’t changed much since it got released because it works !
If they came up with a modern quick body mount and front marker lights that stay in place would have been a plus.
I didn’t know Toyotas came with a 24 cylinder motor!
😂
Can you give details on the yellow truck!!!! I want it!!!!
Made by a friend. It’s been sold since, sorry!
Agree that inner fenders and interior should have been included. To not include those but put that insanely huge engine that you can't even see due to the lack of a functional opening hood makes no sense. As for the steering, I give them credit for thinking outside the box, but maybe more work to do there. Good review!
Thanks for watching!
Hey, I found the video I thought I saw, but better! looks like a military diesel conversion not finished. Paint yellow with a cat sticker and throw some diesel badges on the outside along with thicc axles and call it a day.
That was a good side by side comparison of scale!
Haha, I'm glad we cleared that up! 😄
Leafs for the win, always! They're so predictable and fun to drive. I like the bellcrank, it adds to scale realism; it's much more similar to having a steering box hooked to a pitman arm, that does the steering on a real vehicle. That motor reminds me of a diesel as well. 4BT swap. lol With no kit instructions yet, I was curious about the guts of the tranny, thanks for taking it apart! It looks like there were quite a few upgrades on the Frist Edition one I have from the regular one. The springs were much softer and some other things, interesting. I'm glad to see you're so happy with your new TF3!!! Hahahaha! :D
There are limits to what I'm willing to accept in the name of scale accuracy. Shoddy steering is not one of them. Thanks for watching!
10:37 I like that stiff suspension. What I wanted is a cargo pickup, to put weights in the back. But as I live in Brazil, the dollar is worth too much, I'll have to wait and just keep my Maxx 4S. Do you recommend any other models for this purpose? Pleeeeeeease! Maybe a good chassis and body, without motor or servo, for me to complete when I have more money.
Buy a used TF2 if you can find one!
I’m with you on this one! Even though is a nice truck! Something about it doesn’t seem right! A bit off! I feel the transmission and engine are a bit large, they’ve could have done a better job on the leaf springs on the rear! But otherwise a good looking truck.
Great review, and I agree with you. The price point doesn't match the quality and durability of the vehicle
That rear drive line is UGGGLLYYYY, i cant believe he banged on about the engine scale and rear leaf location and never mentioned that.
They are for sale here in switzerland atm. For 350 swiss bucks. Not a bad price for a RTR from overseas. I have the TF2 already but i will sell it and switch to the TF3. There are so much improvements you can do on the TF3 like a open hood and some additional engine parts with a 3D printer. Nice review btw.
Thanks for watching!
Thanks for sharing your thoughts on this, I’m personally not impressed with this new release. I’ve been debating on a tf2 extra cab mcfly truck, it seems a lot better then this version hands down. My trx4 blazer puts this thing to shame and looks better, they could’ve done a lot better on this one.
It does look like this TF3 is a step back... TFs and TRX4s are in different categories, imo.
Love the McFly truck, but it is too nice to drive it, so I recommend if you want to save a few bucks, Tower has an exclusive LWB red TF2 ARTR for $480. Same body as McFly, just need to add your own electronics, and it has the single speed transmission.
The editing, camera work, and picture quality are topnotch!
Wish I had the skills, and equipment to make vides this great.
Ha! I thought that motor was a straight 6 til you said it was a 22r 🤘🍻🤘
Meet the all new RC4WD Trailfinder 3 the new and even worse version of the truck we already sell! Buy today!!!
Your camera work is unbeatable Matt! Keep it up!
Thanks for watching! I love filming and now that it's warming up, am hoping that I'll be able to get out more!
Rc4wd- finding new ways to disappoint even their most staunch fans every day.
Love your show love your honesty!!
Than you for all your help information!
I haven't done business with rc4wd since 2007ish. Back before crawlers came in kits or rtr's. I had built a CFNN custom crawler, with claud buster axles. I ordered some portal axle ends for it. Paid almost $300 after shipping. They didn't make it 4 feet on smooth garage floor, before they broke. RC4WD decided to use the tiniest little bity screws, smaller than a watch ⌚️ screw. I tried contacting them and got shit for help. Will never do business with them again. Hope they go out of business still.
Brutal, honest, cause it's honestly brutal
It actually drives better then a thought it would. I just don’t know why they are so expensive. But it is a very scale truck.
Damn. I was waiting until I saw a solid review on this. I had my doubts. All confirmed. Why the hell did they cheap out and completely reinvent what was once a perfect truck. They could have done so much with what they originally had going on.
I just LOL'd at the "not a lot of flex in this truck" which brings me to asking: if after they've seen all of us modding this suspension down to the bare minimum to function, then why do they still continue to sell them this way? Hard as a rock.
People buy these and give up on them because of how stiff they are. A lot of folks have no idea the extent that these can be taken to for mods. So why limit the absolute F out them right out of the box so most don't even have a chance of truly enjoying the trucks.
Long story short: be happy you have a #TF2 if you have one. ✌
Thanks for watching, appreciate your opinions!
0:38 Same i love leaf springs also.
It is stiff as a board! With ours I did some adjustments with the leaf's and shackles and it works a lot better better. the steering is funky make sure you take each screw out of the front steering crank because it slips left and right a bit and always makes it steer crooked .. take one screw out at a time and thread lock it and tighten them real tight and it will stop it. Also I do not like how much it takes to swap out a pinion gear or get the motor out to work on it. it looks sharp though.
Thanks for the tips!
@@scalebuildersguild 😁👍
Like many others I am super disappointed in this release. Seems that RC4WD really made a lot of compromises when they did not need too. Would have liked to seen them update the yota 2, and maybe do a little better with the trans. Overall am glad I decided not to get a tf3.
A few things that REALLY bother me: of course the steering and giant engine catastrophe. the big ass screws in the tail lights. The ugly screws at the base of the door holding the body on (they really should've figured out something better after all these years of producing this body). And the headlights have almost no texture to them. Basically just clear plastic 😥. They definitely got the chassis and trans shape right though.
Looks awesome on the trail.
The terrain, especially in the river, seems very complicated to me for any crawler to pass through, but note one detail: it does not have a suspension travel, in fact, it seems that it does not even have shock absorbers that help little. Let's say it looks nice, but seeing the performance, I definitely wouldn't invest in that model.
The rocks are certainly very easy to traverse in a linked crawler. The suspension is very stiff but it can be made to be softer.
Things I like about this truck.
Your decals.
Your driving.
Your filming.
Your editing style.
That's all!
I appreciate that! Hahaha
Great and informative video on a truck I will never own. Just can’t fall in love with a leaf sprung truck like this. But interestingly, it gave me an idea with all its steering issues. Has anyone come up with a steering gearbox, ala 1:1, that would multiply the efforts of even a common servo?
It's a cool idea, and I think space would be the only issue there. Thanks for watching!
Died laughing with the getting the radio out of the garbage 😂
😂
I'M NOT HAPPY , with your selection of music. Annoying is an understatement.
Thanks for watching! Maybe turn the sound off next time 😂
I agree dude.
Thx a lot for the honest preview. I realy love RC4WD, own 1 G2 and 4 different TF2 ( swb, rwb, lwb ) . But realy sad, that they prefer dumping money into traxxas than supporting their Fans.
I once wrote with John and talked to him about some ideas for RC4WD. Little bit later traxxas came out with my idea. My idea was a 1/10 Semi.
Well, anyways. I think there will be no changes for us Fans.
Keep it going mate.
Greetings from Germany.
Glad you liked it!
ya the the lack of a shackle reverse on the front and the leaf mount positions on the rear frame really let me down. I own full size 87 Suzuki samurai and besides the leaf over conversion, the first thing I did was a shackle reverse kit. It also provides a smoother ride because the suspension is working with the forward momentum.
You couldn't be more right! Rumour is that A&M is working on a fix.
I use to have a radio shack truck that drove just as stiff as this truck. Thank you, I will definitely not be purchasing this truck. Great review and your channel is one of my favorites for my rc hobby.
Thanks for watching! I aim to give fair and honest reviews.
Land cruiser motor swap, you think with the Bell crank system they could have at least got the drag link above the leaf springs in front
Yikes 😬 I’ve never had a TF2, but I’ve been wanting one lately. Now I’m worried about it being discontinued because of this new generation. I think I’ll maybe pick up a marlin before they get discontinued. Hope they don’t though!
I don't think the TF2 is going anywhere, but there are still a tonne (ton for the US spelling) of option parts and 3rd party mods available.
I sure hope you’re right! That’s good, because I’m trying to hold off on new trucks for a while and get a VS4-10 pro
I had a D90 Heritage at home and was not really impressed with the build quality. There were paint inclusions everywhere, chipped paint on the edges (probably from assembly), cables not properly routed, etc. Overall not what I expected in that price range and made me wonder about the overall care of the assembly and I returned it.
They look great in videos, but I'm afraid, thats it.
looks a little monster trucky
With this new chassis, Rc4wd solved only one problem of the TF2, which is the center skid. That's good but they created new problems.
- Steering is awfull now.
- Chassis is not as sturdy as it was on TF2.
- You can't mount rear shocks with higher angles.
- Many TF2 add-on parts won't fit TF3.
- Axle wrap issue is still there.
- Still no inner fenders.
- Lots of plastic on drivetrain.
Also it will be weird if I put a Chevy Blazer body on it with that 22R engine. So Trail Finder is a Toyota-only chassis now?
I also love leaf spring has managed to get 105mm travel with a car with only 242mm wheelbase
The only thing I do hate about all the TF 2 is the leaf springs . They are way too thick . They need to be a lot thinner . I built my own springs from 3 1/2 hp - 6 1/2 hp lawn mower springs . This do include bending and hammer drilling the main springs . I torch the ends to red hot and curl the ends and then I hammer drill the holes . In doing this is simple . Use a small punch and a light hammer . I mark the springs where I want a hole . I dont try to punch threw the spring steel I just ping where I want a hole . All this will do is to crush the area where the hole will be . It is to fracture the metal . You will need a metal plate as a backer . Then I put the spring over a hole on that was drilled on the backing plate and go and punch the holes threw . It takes some practice to get kinks worked out but it does work . Once the hole was made then just clean up the hole with a small round file ( rat tail file ) on a drill . Makes out a nice round hole and makes out nice soft leaf springs . I got 3 1/4 inch flex on the rear and 3 1/3 on the front on a main leaf and a vary short leaf at the axle .
Also did the leaf pack mods on the drag link smashed right into the “oil pan” so that had to go 😂 and the shackles fold flat
Your “nitpicking points” were honestly all of the high points. RC4WD is a good company, but continually fail to understand and put any decent amount of thought into their products. The Yota II axles have had problems, maybe put time into correcting those issues? The leaf springs are too stiff, maybe put time into finding a better spring steel? General details that a $200 kit includes, maybe find a way to include those general details… the transmission, they HAVE a scale transmission for crying out loud, make a plastic mold of it and boom, a really nice compact transmission.
That motor cover would be great for a 1/14 Tamiya Globe Liner or King/Grand Hauler
I'm not a fan of the leaf spring trail trucks. Your review just reminds me why. This thing has all the spring and articulation of a buckboard wagon.
Also, when you had it on the bench and showed the steering movement. I could see the bell crank "twist ?" at the end of each articulation. That's a pretty clear illustration of how weak that linkage is.
Can they make the front leaf springs with the shackle in the rear like real toyotas. So that way we have something more to scale
They’ve got a long list of things to fix.
Thanks for your review, I was waiting for it!
After watching I think, it's a new trailfinder generation, but maybe the same mods from tf2, are necessary for a better, maybe the same performance in the end....?!
What a crazy evolution...
But nice review and run as allways! Thanks.
I haven't had Issues with my steering too much, but my shifting servo did fail.. who knows why.
How's the slop between gears on the 2-speed? I'd heard it was kinda bad on the old R3 2-speed from RC4WD so I stayed away from it. Now I see the TF3 gearbox and internals are all new part numbers from the R3, but they each have the same gear ratios. So I'm curious if the gear lash has been tightened with the new parts, or if they just rearranged the same flawed design to make it fit in the new trans case.
Stay tuned for more on this truck. I honestly can't say until I've spent more time with it. Thanks for watching!
You should do a motor swap video I can't find one lol thanks for all the good content
They can use that motor cover in the roc hobby mb scaler.
Considering all of the screws that fell out and the lack of grease in the transfer case that gave a LOUD clicking noise, I would never buy another RC4WD RC Car again. The price was way too high for something that gave so many problems. The Traxxas TRX4 costed me a lot less and never gave me any headaches like the TF2 did. I was hoping to see that they improved the TF2 but it really looks like the went the opposite direction.