TRA82056-4RED Traxxas TRX-4 Manual

22
•
TRX-4
DRIVING YOUR MODEL
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 XL-5 HV cool. Get plenty of airflow across the ESC heat
sink.
• 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.
• 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 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 TRX-4 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
TRX-4 through puddles, wet grass, snow, and through other wet
conditions. Though highly water resistant, the TRX-4 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 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 saltwater (ocean
water), brackish water (between fresh water and ocean water), or
other contaminated water. Saltwater is highly conductive and highly
corrosive. Use caution if you plan to run your model on or near a beach.
• Even casual water contact can reduce the life of your motor. Special
care must be taken to modify your driving style in wet conditions to
extend the life of the motor (details below).
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 tires. Cover the breather holes in all tires
(including the spare) with adhesive tape to prevent possible
damage to the foam inserts .
3. 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. Confirm that the wire
clamp has sufficient grease.
4. Confirm that your batteries can be used in wet conditions.
5. Use low gear when running in mud, deep puddles, snow, or similar
situations that will restrict the tires and put much higher loads on the
motor. Although the TRX-4’s Titan 550 motor has ample torque in
second gear, using first gear in situations that require low speed will
extend motor life. Limit second-gear use to high-speed running on dry
ground.