18 • 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 battery packs that allow extended periods
of running. Monitoring temperatures will extend the lives of the batteries and
motors. See page 25 for advanced user information on monitoring temperatures.
• 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, sluggish servos (slow to return
to center), or ESC shutdown due to the Low-Voltage Detection circuitry. Stop immediately
at the first sign of weak batteries. When the batteries in the transmitter become weak, the
power light will begin to flash red. 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 pinion 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.
• High performance vehicles produce small vibrations which may loosen hardware
over time. Frequently check wheel nuts and other screws on your vehicle to
ensure that all hardware remains properly tightened.
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 3000mAh
battery pack will theoretically run twice as long as a 1500mAh 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 which 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 and charger.
• Keep the VXL-3s cool. Get plenty of airflow across the ESC heat sinks.
• Use the correct Low-Voltage Detection setting for your battery (see page 16). Low-
Voltage Detection can be off for maximum NiMH battery runtime. Never use LiPo
batteries while Low-Voltage Detection is turned off.
• Lower your gear ratio. Installing a smaller pinion or larger spur gear will lower your
gear ratio, causing less power draw from the motor and battery, and reducing
overall operating temperatures.
• Maintain your model. Do not allow dirt or damaged parts to cause binding in the
drivetrain. Keep the motor clean.
mAh Ratings and Power Output
The mAh rating of the battery can effect 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, your 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. Do not use
LiPo batteries in wet conditions.
• The Traxxas TQi transmitter is not water resistant. Do not subject it to wet
conditions such as rain.
• 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 on or near a beach.
Before Running Your Vehicle in Wet Conditions
1. Consult the section “After Running Your Vehicle in Wet Conditions” before
proceeding. Make sure you understand the additional maintenance required
with wet running.
2. The wheels have small holes molded in to allow air to enter and exit the tire
during normal running. Water will enter these holes and get trapped inside the
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