5 • TRAXXAS
• Operate the steering control on the
transmitter. Check for rapid operation of
the steering servo and that none of the
steering mechanism is loose or binding. If
the servo operates slowly, check for weak
batteries. Adjust the “steering trim” control
on the transmitter to adjust the servo so
that the outdrive is pointing straight out
from the back of the boat. Also, check to be
sure that the outdrive does not turn more
in one direction than in the other. If you
cannot align the outdrive, refer to the section “Centering Your Servos.”
• Operate the throttle trigger on the transmitter to ensure that you have
full operation (propeller reaches full speed), and that the propeller
stops spinning when the throttle trigger is at neutral.
• Once adjustments are made, turn off the receiver on your Blast,
followed by the hand-held transmitter.
• The radio system should be range-tested before each session of running.
With the radio system on, have a friend carry the boat away from you a
distance equal to the maximum range you plan to operate the Blast. At
distance, once again test for complete radio control. Never attempt to
run the Blast if the radio appears to be malfunctioning in any way.
Transmitter Controls
Centering your Servos
Whenever your radio system has been removed for service or cleaning, the
steering servo must be re-centered prior to installing the radio system in
the model. If the radio system is already installed in the boat, disconnect the
servo horn from the servo.
Connect the steering servo to channel 1 on your receiver and the electronic
speed control to channel 2. Nothing connects to the other terminals on the
receiver.
Place fresh “AA” batteries in the transmitter and turn the power switch
on. Adjust trim to “0” position. Connect a fresh 7.2V battery pack to the
electronic speed control and turn the power switch to the
ON
position. The
servo will automatically jump to its center position.
Turn off the electronic speed control switch followed by the transmitter.
The servo is now ready to be installed. Be careful not to move the servo
shaft when installing the steering linkage.
Piloting the Blast
Your new Traxxas Blast is designed with water-resistant features to
protect the electronics in the model (receiver, servo, electronic speed
control). This gives you the freedom to have fun piloting your Blast.
Though highly water resistant, the Blast should not be treated as
though it is submersible or totally, 100% waterproof. Water resistance
applies only to the installed electronic components. Additional care
and maintenance is required when water contacts the mechanical and
electrical components to prevent corrosion of metal parts and maintain
their proper function.
Before you go on, here are some important
precautions to keep in mind.
• 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 order to maintain the performance of
your model.
• Not all batteries can be used in wet environments. Consult your battery
manufacturer to see if their batteries can be used in wet conditions. Do
not use LiPo batteries in wet conditions (
Note
: the Nautica ESC is
not
LiPo
compatible).
• The Traxxas TQ 2.4GHz transmitter is not water resistant.
• Do not operate your model during a rain storm or other inclement
weather where lightning may be present.
• Do
not
allow your model to come in contact with salt water (ocean
water), brackish water (between fresh water and ocean water), or other
contaminated water. Salt water is highly conductive and highly corrosive.
Use caution if you plan to run your model near a beach.
• Select a body of water (at least 10 inches deep) that is clear of moss and
grass. Do not drive the Blast in rough, choppy water or in high wind (more
than 15 mph). These conditions could cause your Blast to flip over.
• The Blast’s steering is very sensitive. A slight input on the steering control
will have a large effect on the boat. When the boat is in open water, adjust
the steering trim on the transmitter until the boat travels in a straight line
on its own. (
Note
: The Blast will only travel in a straight line on its own
when it is heading straight into or away from the wind. Crosswinds will
require constant steering input to maintain a straight course.)
• To prevent spin outs, avoid sharp turns at high speed.
• Always be ready to reduce the throttle if the Blast appears to be unstable
or “chine walking” (rocking violently from side-to-side). Always reduce
the throttle when turning, especially in rough water. Jumping the Blast or
towing anything with it should not be attempted.
• Return the Blast to shore at the first sign of weak batteries (Blast will begin
to slow and the controls will become sluggish).
Cavitation
If the Blast is running at full throttle but is only barely moving forward,
the propeller is cavitating. Try advancing the throttle slowly to get
the Blast on plane. If you are having trouble with cavitation, check the
propeller for nicks or tangled debris. The Blast’s propeller is specially
designed for its application; therefore, it is very sensitive to any changes
or modifications. If the propeller is damaged, it should be replaced.
Before Running Your Blast
1.
Consult the section “After Running Your Blast” before proceeding. Make
sure you understand the maintenance required.
2.
Confirm that the receiver box O-ring and cover are installed correctly
and secure. Make sure the screws are tight and the blue O-ring is not
visibly protruding from the edge of the cover.
3.
Confirm that your batteries can be used in wet conditions.
4.
Normally, very little water will accumulate inside the boat. Empty any
standing water from the boat between runs. Drill a small hole 1/16”
from the front of the boat to drain the water. Do not drain the water out
of the back of the boat (near the radio system).
5.
Check the wiring for any frayed wires or loose connections.
6.
Check the tightness of the set screws
in the collars on the steering linkages
and in the universal joint yokes
(connecting the outdrive to the
driveshaft and the driveshaft to the
motor). Threadlocking compound can
be applied to these screws to prevent
them from loosening.
Forward
Neutral
TURN
R
IG
H
T
T
U
R
N
LE
FT
The TQ 2.4GHz transmitter has a directional antenna. For
maximum range, hold the antenna upright and pointed in the
direction of the model. Pointing the transmitter away from the
model will reduce radio range.
Drill a small
hole here
Drill a small
hole here