4WD on the Rlaarlo Omni-Terminator Metal
TL;DR: The Rlaarlo Omni-Terminator Metal is 4WD through a centre differential, on a 2.5 mm aluminium chassis, with 104 mm tyres and oil-filled metal shocks.
Drive this mini 1/10 truck on dirt, grass or tarmac. Keep it out of standing water, and dry it off after a damp run. The included pack is a 3S 2200mAh LiPo. Charge it on your own LiPo charger before the first run.
Whether you are new to the hobby or upgrading from a 2WD truck, understanding the drivetrain, battery setup, and maintenance needs will help you get more from every pack.
Key Takeaways
- Better traction: The Omni-Terminator Metal sends power to all four wheels through a centre differential.
- More stable handling: Four-wheel drive helps keep the truck straight when accelerating, turning, and landing jumps.
- More versatile: It uses a centre differential and 104 mm tyres, for dirt, grass and tarmac.
- More maintenance: Extra drivetrain parts mean you should clean and inspect the truck after a run on dirt or grass.
What Is a 4WD RC Truck?
A 4wd rc truck is an RC vehicle that drives both the front and rear wheels through a linked drivetrain, rather than pushing only one axle. On this truck, power goes to all four wheels through a centre differential, with 104 mm tyres for dirt, grass and tarmac.
On this truck, power goes to all four wheels through a centre differential, with 104 mm tyres for dirt, grass and tarmac. On the Omni-Terminator Metal, 4WD runs through a centre differential.
How Does a 4WD RC Truck Work?
The motor sends power through the spur gear into the transmission, and then the drivetrain splits that power between the front and rear axles. Because of this layout, the truck can keep moving even if one axle momentarily loses grip.
What does the centre differential do?
The centre differential helps balance power between the front and rear of the truck. On loose dirt or gravel, drive still reaches the wheels that have grip. Keep the truck out of standing water.
Why are prop shafts and driveshafts important?
Prop shafts transfer power along the chassis, while driveshafts carry that power out to each wheel. In a 4WD RC truck, these parts work constantly, so quality materials and regular maintenance make a noticeable difference to reliability.
Where does 4WD help on this truck?
On the Rlaarlo Omni-Terminator Metal, 4WD runs through a centre differential. Drive it on dirt, grass or tarmac, and keep it out of standing water.
How does 4WD help on loose ground?
On loose dirt or gravel, drive to all four wheels keeps the truck moving. This truck uses a centre differential. Keep it out of standing water.
What about gravel and woodland trails?
Loose gravel, rooty paths, and woodland trails are exactly the kind of mixed surfaces where four-wheel drive feels most useful. Even if two wheels lift or slip, the other wheels can continue to drive the truck onwards.
For a broader look at off-road setup choices, read our guide to the off-road RC car explained.
What Makes a Fast 4WD RC Truck?
A fast truck needs more than a strong motor. It also needs a drivetrain that can handle power without wasting it, plus electronics that deliver smooth throttle control.
Why choose a brushless motor?
Based on our testing, a brushless motor gives a 4wd rc truck much better efficiency, stronger acceleration, and higher top speed than a brushed setup. Because brushless systems use electronic commutation, they also tend to run cooler and need less routine wear-item replacement.
Is a 3S LiPo battery enough?
For many mini 1/10 bashers, a 3S LiPo battery is the sweet spot for speed and usable runtime. On the included 3S 2200mAh pack, the published top speed is 60–80 km/h. Keep the truck out of standing water.
"LiPo batteries store highly volatile energy. Mishandling, puncturing, or overcharging these cells can lead to thermal runaway and severe fires."
According to UK fire safety guidance, you should charge LiPo batteries in a safe location, use a fire-resistant bag or box, and never leave them unattended while charging. In addition, store them at the correct storage voltage when not in use to help protect both your batteries and your home.
What Size RC Truck Should You Buy?
For most hobbyists, mini 1/10 is the best all-round size. It is large enough to handle rough ground and deliver an exciting driving experience, yet small enough to carry in the boot of a hatchback and maintain without fuss.
Smaller scales such as 1/16 or 1/18 can be fun indoors or in tighter spaces, while larger 1/8 trucks offer more presence and stronger components. This truck is a mini 1/10, 410 × 288 × 172 mm, with a 251 mm wheelbase.
How Do You Maintain a 4WD RC Truck?
Because a 4WD drivetrain has more moving parts, regular care matters. After a damp run, wipe the truck down, clear debris from the chassis, and check the bearings, shafts, and gears for grit.
It is also wise to inspect the drivetrain for play, keep screws tight, and relubricate the relevant parts when needed. That extra attention helps preserve smooth performance and reduces the chance of avoidable wear.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best use for a 4WD RC truck?
This 4WD truck is for dirt, grass and tarmac. Keep it out of standing water.
Can a 4WD RC truck drive in the rain?
Keep this truck out of standing water. Do not immerse it, then dry it off after a damp run.
Is 4WD or 2WD better for beginners?
4WD is usually better for beginners because it offers more grip, more stability, and less wheelspin on unpredictable ground.
How fast can a 4WD RC truck go?
That depends on the motor, battery, gearing, and tyre choice. Many hobby-grade 4WD trucks can reach high speeds, especially with brushless power and a 3S LiPo battery.
Do 4WD RC trucks need more maintenance?
Yes. Because they have more drivetrain components than 2WD models, they benefit from more frequent cleaning, inspection, and lubrication.
Final Thoughts
If you want a truck that performs well on real UK terrain, a 4wd rc truck is the most practical choice. It uses a centre differential, 104 mm tyres and oil-filled metal shocks, for dirt, grass and tarmac.
In short, 4WD is the setup that makes off-road RC driving feel more capable, more predictable, and more fun throughout the year.