18 • SUMMIT
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 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.
• High-performance vehicles produce small vibrations that may loosen
hardware over time. Frequently check wheel nuts and other screws on
your vehicle to ensure that all hardware remains properly tightened.
Operating the High-Low Transmission
Summit’s High-Low transmission is operated via the red
rocker switch above the transmitter grip; depressing
the upper part of the switch engages Low, depressing
the lower part of the switch engages High. Summit
may be shifted from Low to High while the truck is
moving. However, it is recommended to slow to a
speed appropriate for Low gear (about 5mph) before
shifting from High to Low. This will reduce strain on the
transmission gears. Although Summit’s 775 motor has
ample torque for climbing and crawling in second gear,
using first gear in situations that require low speed will extend motor life.
Limit second-gear use to high-speed running.
Operating the T-Lock Differentials
For most driving, the Summit will perform best with
both differentials unlocked or “open” (T-Lock switch
back). This will give Summit maximum steering
performance and the tightest possible turning radius,
and will also reduce strain on the drive components.
If open differentials cause you to lose traction over
loose terrain or when traversing an obstacle, you can
use the T-lock switch to lock the front differential or
both differentials. To lock the front differential only, bring the truck
and all four wheels to a complete stop, then move the T-Lock switch to
the middle position. Apply throttle slowly until the T-Lock engages (it
will take just a moment), then use the throttle as needed. To lock both
differentials, come to a complete stop and move the T-Lock switch to
the forward-most position. As with a full-size 4WD vehicle, Summit’s
high-speed handling and steering precision are reduced when one or
both differentials are locked. Locked differentials should only be used for
difficult obstacles that require minimum speed and maximum traction.
High-speed driving with locked differentials is not recommended.
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 and charger.
• Keep the EVX-2 cool. Get plenty of airflow across the ESC heat sinks.
• Lower your gear ratio. Installing a smaller pinion gear will lower your
gear ratio and cause less power draw from the motor and batteries,
and reduce overall operating temperatures.
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