What Is Used to Switch Between Presets 1-15 for RT1
If you're staring at your RT1 transmitter wondering how in the world you're supposed to jump between presets 1-15, you're not alone. On top of that, it's one of those things that seems like it should be obvious but isn't always explained clearly in the manual. Here's the deal: most RT1-compatible transmitters use a combination of physical controls — typically a model select button, a scroll wheel or up/down buttons, and sometimes a dedicated switch — to cycle through your saved model memories. The exact method depends on which specific RT1 transmitter or module you're using, but the core concept is the same across most setups That alone is useful..
Let me break down what actually works, because there's a good chance you're missing one small step that's keeping you stuck.
What Is RT1, Exactly?
RT1 refers to Traxxas' 2.4GHz radio system — specifically the transmitter and receiver combo that comes with many of their popular models. The "RT" stands for "Radio Traxxas," and the "1" indicates it's the base-level system in their lineup. You'll find it bundled with the Slash, Stampede, Rustler, and other classic Traxxas vehicles.
The system gives you something called "model memory" — which is just a fancy way of saying it can store settings for up to 15 different vehicles. Each memory slot (presets 1 through 15) holds all your specific settings: throttle trim, steering endpoints, reversing, exponential — everything you'd want to tweak for a particular car or truck Not complicated — just consistent..
No fluff here — just what actually works.
The problem is, actually getting to those memories isn't always intuitive if no one's shown you how Worth knowing..
Why Switching Presets Matters
Here's why this matters more than you might think. Plus, if you're running multiple vehicles off the same transmitter — say, a basher and a race rig — you need separate presets. Otherwise you're constantly fighting with settings that are wrong for whatever you're driving.
But there's a bigger reason: endpoint settings are tied to each model memory. If you load a truck with 100% steering throws into a car that can only handle 60%, things break. Because of that, i'm talking stripped gears, popped servos, bent linkages. It happens fast, and it's expensive Worth knowing..
So being able to switch between presets isn't just convenient — it's about protecting your equipment. Now, the RT1 system gives you 15 slots for a reason. Use them That alone is useful..
How to Switch Presets on Your RT1 Transmitter
Here's the part you actually came for. The exact method depends on which transmitter version you have, but there are two main approaches:
Method 1: Using the Model Select Button + Scroll Wheel
This is the most common setup for the standard RT1 transmitter that ships with Traxxas vehicles:
- Press and hold the "Model Select" button (it's usually near the top of the transmitter, labeled "M" or "MODEL")
- While holding it, turn the scroll wheel (the large wheel on the front of the transmitter) to cycle through model numbers 1-15
- Release the button to confirm your selection
The display will show something like "M01" or "M02" depending on which slot you've chosen. That's your preset The details matter here. Turns out it matters..
Method 2: Using Up/Down Buttons
Some RT1 variants — particularly the later versions with more button-forward designs — use up/down arrows instead of a scroll wheel:
- Press and hold the "Model" or "Select" button for about one second
- Use the up or down buttons to work through to your desired model number (1-15)
- Press the select button again to confirm
The display will flash or beep to confirm your selection has changed Not complicated — just consistent..
Method 3: The Quick-Recall Method
If you've already been using the transmitter and want to switch quickly without going through the full menu:
- Double-tap the model select button on some firmware versions, then use the wheel or buttons to change models
- This varies by the exact RT1 version you have, so if this doesn't work, try the standard hold-and-scroll method above
Common Mistakes People Make
Here's where most people get stuck — and it's usually one of these issues:
Forgetting to hold the button. You can't just tap the model select button and expect the wheel to work. It needs to be held down while you scroll. This is the number one thing people miss, and it's why it feels like nothing's happening.
Not waiting for confirmation. When you switch presets, the transmitter usually gives some kind of feedback — a beep, a flash, or the display changing. If you're not paying attention, you might think it didn't work and end up driving with the wrong model selected.
Assuming all presets are the same. They're not. If you've set up preset 3 for your race car and preset 7 for your basher, switching between them should change your endpoints, trim, and other settings. If everything feels the same after switching, your presets might not be saved correctly, or you might be accidentally resetting to default Worth keeping that in mind. Practical, not theoretical..
Not saving changes to the right preset. This one's tricky. If you tweak your settings while the transmitter is on model 5, those changes save to model 5 — not to whatever you were using before. Double-check which model is active before you start adjusting It's one of those things that adds up..
Practical Tips That Actually Help
A few things worth knowing that the manual doesn't spell out:
Label your presets. Grab a piece of tape or use a label maker. Write down which model number corresponds to which vehicle. It takes 30 seconds and saves you from guessing every time you grab the transmitter And that's really what it comes down to..
Do a quick sanity check before each run. Look at the display before you give throttle. Confirm the model number matches what you think you're driving. This takes one second and prevents broken parts And that's really what it comes down to..
Reset to defaults before setting up a new vehicle. If you're programming a fresh preset for a new car, it's often cleaner to start from the default settings rather than trying to modify an existing preset. Most RT1 transmitters have a "reset model" option in the menu Worth keeping that in mind..
Keep track of your endpoints. If you're switching between a 2WD slash (more steering) and a 4WD (less steering throw needed), those endpoint differences need to be saved in each preset. Don't rely on the transmitter to "know" the difference — you have to program it.
FAQ
How do I know which preset is currently active?
Look at the display on your transmitter. Which means it will show a model number (usually "M01" through "M15") in the top corner or center of the screen. That's your active preset.
Can I delete a preset and start fresh?
Yes. But most RT1 transmitters have a "reset model" or "clear model" option in the menu. Check your manual for the specific button combination — it's usually accessed through the same model select menu where you switch presets Simple, but easy to overlook..
What happens if I drive with the wrong preset selected?
If the endpoints, trim, or other settings are different from what your vehicle needs, you can damage servos, strip gears, or cause other mechanical failures. Always confirm your preset before driving.
Can I have two vehicles on the same preset?
You can, but you shouldn't. On the flip side, each vehicle has different mechanical tolerances. So what works for one might break another. Save separate presets for each vehicle.
Do I need to rebind my receiver when switching presets?
No. The binding is separate from model memory. As long as your receiver is bound to the transmitter, switching model memories won't affect the connection.
The Bottom Line
Switching between presets 1-15 on your RT1 comes down to holding the model select button while you scroll or use the up/down buttons to pick your number. It's simple once you know the hold-and-scroll trick — the manual just doesn't make it obvious That alone is useful..
Once you've got your presets set up for each vehicle, label them, double-check before each run, and you'll never accidentally drive a truck with car settings again. That's when this system actually starts to feel useful.
