20 • TRAXXAS
DRIVING YOUR MODEL
Now it’s time to have some fun! This section contains instructions
on driving and making adjustments to your model.
Before you go
on, here are some important precautions to keep in mind.
• Allow the model to cool for a few minutes between runs. This is
particularly important when using high-capacity (2400mAh and
above) battery packs that allow extended periods of running.
Monitoring temperatures will extend the lives of the batteries and
motor.
• Do not continue to operate the model with low batteries or you
could lose control of it. Indications of low battery power include
slow operation and sluggish servos (slow to return to center). Stop
immediately at the first sign of weak batteries. When the batteries
in the transmitter become weak, the red power light will begin to
flash. Stop immediately and install new batteries.
• Do not drive the model at night, on public streets, or in large
crowds of people.
• If the model becomes stuck against an object, do not continue to
run the motor. Remove the obstruction before continuing. Do not
push or pull objects with the model.
• Because the model is controlled by radio, it is subject to radio
interference from many sources beyond your control. Since radio
interference can cause momentary losses of control, allow a safety
margin of space in all directions around the model in order to
prevent collisions.
• Use good, common sense whenever you are driving your model.
Intentionally driving in an abusive and rough manner will only
result in poor performance and broken parts. Take care of your
model so that you can enjoy it for a long time to come.
• When using the supplied optional pinions for top speed running,
limit your driving to paved surfaces only. Running in grass and
off-road could cause excessive loads on the electrical system in the
model.
• The Titan 12T motor will benefit from a short break-in period
to ensure optimum performance and longer motor life. For the
first battery pack, use the stock installed pinion gear and drive
smoothly on a flat, paved surface. Accelerate smoothly (avoiding
full throttle starts), with most of the driving being done at higher
speeds. This will help ensure that the motor provides the best
performance and longest life.
About Run Time
A large factor affecting run time is the type and condition of
your batteries. The milliamp hour (mAh) rating of the batteries
determines how large their “fuel tank” is. A 3000 mAh battery
pack will theoretically run twice as long as a 1500 mAh sport pack.
Because of the wide variation in the types of batteries that are
available and the methods with which they can be charged, it’s
impossible to give exact run times for the model.
Another major factor that affects run time is how the model
is driven. Run times may decrease when the model is driven
repetitively from a stop to top-speed and with repetitive hard
acceleration.
Tips for Increasing Run Time
• Use batteries with the highest mAh rating you can purchase.
• Use a high-quality peak-detecting charger.
• Read and follow all maintenance and care instructions provided by
the manufacturer of your batteries.
• Vary your speed. The Titan12T is a fan cooled motor, therefore
moderate to top-speed running helps reduce motor temperatures.
• Lower your gear ratio. Installing a smaller pinion gear will lower
your gear ratio, causing less power draw from the motor.
• Maintain your model. Do not allow dirt or damaged parts to cause
binding in the drivetrain. Keep the motor clean and the motor
bushings lightly lubricated.
mAh Ratings and Power Output
The mAh rating of the battery can affect your top speed
performance. The higher capacity battery packs experience less
voltage drop under heavy load than low mAh rated packs. The
higher voltage potential allows increased speed until the battery
begins to become discharged.
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