height, drop the truck from around 6"-12" above flat ground.
Drop the truck, making sure it drops flat. Check where the
suspension arms come to rest. You can adjust ride by
moving the spring adjusters on the shock, which are at the
top of each shock spring, until the arms are level after the
drop test.
Toe-In/Toe-Out: This refers to the angle of the front tires
when viewed from above when the suspension arms are
level. If the fronts of the tires angle in, it is called “toe-in” and
if the fronts of the tires angle out, it is called “toe-out.” In front,
this is adjusted by lengthening or shortening the steering
rods - the rods that run between the front hub and the servo
saver. The rear toe-in is adjusted by the large turnbuckles
behind the rear suspension. Normally a small amount of toe-
in is used to make the truck track straight at high speed. Too
much toe-in will make the truck difficult to turn as well as
reduce the overall top speed because of tire scrub.
Sometimes a small amount of toe-out will be used to help the
steering. As a general rule use a small amount of toe-in.
Shocks: Changes in shock oils, springs, and pre-load on the
springs can dramatically change the way the car handles. A
thicker shock oil will make the truck turn faster but reduces
overall traction and handling over bumpy surfaces. Thinner
oil will increase traction at the expense of steering response
and the car will tend to roll more. In general, shock oils
between 20 and 40 weight will be best for your truck. You
should experiment some to see what oils work best for your
track and driving style. Shock springs affect the rate that the
suspension rebounds from a bump. We have supplied soft
springs that work under most conditions. Pre-load on the
springs means that the springs are already compressed
some so that the suspension will rebound faster. Sometimes
you will want to pre-load one side when the track has turns
all or mostly in one direction, for instance an oval track. It will
also increase the ride height.
Before Each Run
•
Check for loosened screws on the truck. Engine vibration
will loosen some of the screws, particularly in the engine
mount area. Use thread lock on screws that thread into
metal parts or use a metal nut.
•
Inspect the air cleaner for a torn or damaged element.
Also look for dirt in the air cleaner element and wash it
if necessary.
•
Check the suspension and drive train for binding.
•
Inspect all of the wires for damage. Also check the
connectors to make sure all of them are tight and in the
proper place.
•
Check the fuel tank and fuel lines for leaks.
•
Before starting the engine, turn on the radio and make
sure the servos move easily and in the right direction.
•
Before running always check the condition of your radio
system batteries and replace/recharge if necessary.
After Each Run
•
Drain the fuel tank of any leftover fuel. DO NOT return it
to your fuel jug.
•
Put some after-run oil in the carb and turn the flywheel
several times to work the oil into the engine. This will
protect the engine from rusting, especially when stored
for a long period of time.
•
Check again for loosened screws.
•
CLEAN the truck. Wipe off any oils that have collected on
the chassis, engine end exhaust. Oils will attract dirt on
the next run.
MAINTENANCE TIPS
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Inch Scale
Metric Scale (mm)
