24 • SPARTAN
TROUBLESHOOTING
The following section addresses some very basic questions you may have
about your model. If you can’t find a solution here, you may call Traxxas
Customer Service at 1-888-TRAXXAS (U.S. residents only).
If the model stopped suddenly
:
• Release the transmitter trigger immediately. Do not try and “force” the
model to move. Refer to the Boat Retrieval section on page 19 for recovery.
If there is an inconsistent reduction in power:
• There could be something wound around the prop (such as trash, algae
or fishing line). If you continue to drive your model with a bound prop,
the high load could create excessive heat and seriously damage the
batteries, speed control, or motor. Refer to the Boat Retrieval section on
page 19 for recovery.
• The model might have struck an object in the water causing driveline
damage. Refer to the Boat Retrieval section on page 19 for recovery.
If there is an immediate reduction in power:
• If the model’s power output is reduced suddenly, it is likely because the
Low-Voltage Detection system has switched on.
•
Low-Voltage Detection
will reduce power output to 25%. This allows
sufficient power to return the model to shore. To prevent over-discharging
your LiPo battery after Low-Voltage Detection limits power, return
your model to shore and disconnect the LiPo pack(s) from the model
immediately. Low-Voltage Detection allows operation with limited power
for returning to shore ONLY. Operating the model longer than necessary to
return to shore may cause over-discharging and permanent damage to LiPo
batteries.
Always return your model to shore and disconnect the batteries
from your model as soon as Low-Voltage Detection limits power.
The LED on
the speed control will slowly blink red, indicating a low voltage shutdown.
The VXL-6s will stay in the reduced power mode until a fully charged battery
is connected.
• If you are not sure if the above condition occurred,
do not operate the
model.
Refer to the Boat Retrieval section on page 19 for recovery.
INCREASING PERFORMANCE
While your model is a great performer out of the box, there are steps you can
take to increase the speed of the boat.
1.
Adjust the trim tab angle correctly
. The trim tab angle should be trimmed
down just enough to keep the bow of the boat from porpoising (bouncing
up and down) in the current water conditions. If the trim tabs are set too
low, then it pushes the bow lower and increases drag in the water (see page
20).
2.
Maintain your boat.
Your model will be faster if it is kept clean and in
good working order. Replace the prop if it gets nicked or damaged. Keep
the motor clean and oiled. Make sure the drivetrain turns freely with no
binding or excess friction.
3.
Use the best batteries and charger you can afford.
Low-cost, low-capacity
battery packs will limit the performance of your model. Likewise, a low-
cost charger may not allow your batteries to achieve their peak power
and capacity. For best performance, use battery packs rated for 3000mAh
or higher. Traxxas Power Cell battery packs are specially constructed
for durability and performance in high-power Traxxas models. Traxxas
recommends the EZ-Peak Plus charger, part #2933, for quick charging of
the included batteries. See Traxxas.com for more information.
Using Aftermarket Props
Spartan’s included prop has been carefully designed for maximum
performance and durability. It does not require sharpening or balancing
and is inexpensive to replace if damaged. If you do wish to experiment with
aftermarket props, Traxxas recommends using props that range in diameter
from 38-42mm, with a pitch-to-diameter ratio of about 1.4:1. To determine
this ratio, divide pitch by diameter. For example, the Spartan’s stock prop is
42mm in diameter with a pitch of 59mm (59 ÷ 42 = 1.404). Avoid props larger
than 42mm, as these will increase amp draw and reduce performance.
Using Aftermarket Motors and Speed Controls
Important
:
The VXL-6s Marine Speed Control and 540XL Brushless Motor
have been optimized to work together for the absolute best performance,
reliability, and efficiency. Using an aftermarket motor with the VXL-6s speed
control, or an aftermarket speed control with the 540XL Brushless Motor, may
result in damage to the Traxxas components and/or aftermarket components.
Damage incurred by mixing Traxxas and aftermarket components will not be
covered by any expressed or implied warranty. Only use the VXL-6s Marine
speed control with the 540XL Brushless Motor.
If you wish to outfit your model with an aftermarket brushless system, you
must replace both the motor and the speed control. Traxxas recommends
a motor with a kV rating of 1600-1800 kV. Make certain the speed control
you choose is compatible with your motor, is designed for marine use, and
is waterproof. Water cooling is highly recommended. Additional silicone
tubing may be required to properly plumb your speed control’s water-
cooling system. The Traxxas water-cooling motor jacket is not compatible
with all motors. Install an appropriate water-cooling system for the motor
you choose. Traxxas is not responsible for damage to your model or the
components you install in the model if you replace the power system with
non-Traxxas components.
For the best performance, we highly recommend the Spartan’s factory-installed
brushless system. It is optimized for the best performance, reliability, and ease of
use in the Spartan, and fully supported by Traxxas customer service.
If you have questions or need technical assistance, call Traxxas at
1-888-TRAXXAS
(1-888-872-9927) (U.S. residents only)
