TRAXXAS • 17
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.
• 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.
• 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.
RUNNING IN WET CONDITIONS
Your new Traxxas model is designed with water-resistant features to protect
the electronics in the model (receiver, servos, electronic speed control). This
gives you the freedom to have fun driving your model through puddles,
wet grass, snow, and through other wet conditions. Though highly water
resistant, the model should not be treated as though it is submersible or
totally, 100% waterproof. Water resistance applies only to the installed
electronic components. Running in wet conditions requires additional care
and maintenance for the mechanical and electrical components to prevent
corrosion of metal parts and maintain their proper function.
Precautions
• Without proper care, some parts of your model can be seriously damaged
due to contact with water. Know that additional maintenance procedures
will be required after running in wet conditions in order to maintain the
performance of your model. Do not run your model in wet conditions
if you are not willing to accept the additional care and maintenance
responsibilities.
• Not all batteries can be used in wet environments. Consult your battery
manufacturer to see if their batteries can be used in wet conditions.
• The Traxxas TQ 2.4GHz transmitter is not water resistant. Do not subject it to
wet conditions such as rain.
