4
•
GRAVE DIGGER
This model is not intended
for use by children under
14 years of age without the
supervision of a responsible
and knowledgeable adult.
All instructions and
precautions outlined in this
manual should be strictly
followed to ensure safe
operation of your model.
No previous experience
with radio controlled
models is required.
Models require a minimum
of setup, maintenance, or
support equipment.
•
Transmitter on First:
Switch on your transmitter first before switching
on the speed control to prevent runaways and erratic performance.
•
Use Neutrally Timed Motors:
For reverse use, the motors must have
0° timing. Modified motors (with adjustable end bells) timed to 0° or
Johnson/ Mabuchi (closed end bell) motors are recommended. Using
motors with other than 0° timing will draw excess current in reverse, and
can result in the speed control overheating and premature motor wear.
•
Always Use Heat Sinks:
Three heat sinks are factory-installed on
the speed control and must be used for maximum cooling and
performance.
•
4-8 NiMH cells or 2 LiPo cells (2S) Only:
The XL-5 can only accept a
maximum input voltage of 9.6 volts (NiMH), 7.4 volts (2S LiPo). Always
adhere to the minimum and maximum limitations of the XL-5 as stated
in the specifications table.
•
Don’t Get Burned:
The transistor tabs and the heat sinks can get
extremely hot, so be careful not to touch them until they cool.
Supply adequate airflow for cooling.
•
Use Stock Connectors:
If you decide to change the battery or motor
connectors, only change one battery or motor connector at a time.
This will prevent accidentally mis-wiring the speed control. If the XL-5
is not wired exactly as shown in the diagram, it can be damaged!
Please note that modified speed controls can be subject to a rewiring
fee when returned for service.
•
No Reverse Voltage:
The speed control is not protected against
reverse polarity voltage. When changing the battery and/or motor, be
sure to install the same type of connectors to avoid reverse polarity
damage to the speed control. Removing the battery connectors on
the speed control or using the same-gender connectors on the speed
control will void the product’s warranty.
•
Motor Capacitors Required:
Three 0.1µF (50V) ceramic capacitors
should be properly installed on every motor to prevent radio
interference. Capacitors have been provided with the XL-5.
•
Do Not Let the Transistor Tabs Touch:
Never allow the three
separate transistor banks to touch each other or any exposed metal.
This will create a short circuit and damage the speed control.
•
No Schottky Diodes:
External schottky diodes are not compatible
with reversing speed controls. Using a schottky diode with the XL-5
will damage the ESC and void the 30-day warranty.
BATTERIES AND BATTERY CHARGING
The XL-5 speed control uses rechargeable batteries that must be
handled with care for safety and long battery life. Make sure to read
and follow all instructions and precautions that were provided with
your battery packs and your charger. It is your responsibility to charge
and care for your battery backs properly. In addition to your battery
and charger instructions, here are some more tips to keep in mind.
• Never leave batteries to charge unattended.
• Remove the batteries from the model while charging.
• Allow the battery packs to cool off between runs (before charging).
• Always unplug the battery from the electronic speed control when
the model is not in use and when it is being stored or transported.
• Do not use battery packs that have been damaged in any way.
• Do not use battery packs that have damaged wiring, exposed wiring,
or a damaged connector.
• Children should have responsible adult supervision when charging
and handling batteries.
LiPo Batteries
Warning:
Lithium Polymer (LiPo) batteries require special care and
handling procedures for long life and safe operation. LiPo batteries
are intended only for advanced users that are educated on the risks
associated with LiPo battery use.
Traxxas does not recommend
that anyone under the age of 16 use or handle LiPo battery packs
without the supervision of a knowledgeable and responsible adult.
The XL-5 speed control is able to use LiPo batteries with nominal
voltage not to exceed 7.4 volts (2S packs). LiPo batteries have a
minimum safe discharge voltage threshold that should not be
exceeded. The XL-5 is equipped with built-in Low-Voltage Detection
that alerts the driver when LiPo batteries have reached their minimum
voltage (discharge) threshold.
It is the driver’s responsibility to stop
immediately to prevent the battery pack from being discharged
below its safe minimum threshold.
Low-Voltage Detection on the speed control is just one part of a
comprehensive plan for safe LiPo battery use.
It is critical for you,
the user, to follow all other instructions supplied by the battery
manufacturer and the charger manufacturer for proper charging,
use, and storage of LiPo batteries. Make sure you understand how
to use your LiPo batteries.
Be aware that Traxxas shall not be liable for
any special, indirect, incidental, or consequential damages arising out
of the installation and/or use of LiPo batteries in Traxxas products.
If you have questions about LiPo battery usage, please consult with
your local hobby dealer or contact the battery manufacturer.
SAFETY PRECAUTIONS
