My granddaughter gave me a challenge this past week when she handed me a beat up Art-Tech Cessna 182 that she picked up at a garage sale. She asked if I could fix it up for next spring so we could fly it together. Being the fool that I am I said I would try. Although I could probably buy a new one cheaper than fixing this model, I have the time and it is a bit of a challenge for fix up and learn about the various parts.

I think I now understand the mechanical problems and how to repair them (including replacing the battery ESC and motor) but I am not sure if the existing transmitter and receiver actually are a match. The servos operate when voltage is applied to the receiver and the receiver reacts to the transmitter going on and off but none moving the controls on the 4 channel transmitter seem to impact the movement of the servos.

Is it possible to put a new receiver in and drop a matching crystal in the existing transmitter or will I need to replace both receiver and transmitter? Is there a place to learn more about this compatibility problem?

Most transmitters and receivers need to be the same brand to work properly. If the system you have now is older, you my want to update to something more current[2.4 ghz].
You can find a 6 channel for under $40 at Hobbypartz.com.

Good Luck!!!!!