2. Introduction
3 Before You Proceed Thank you for purchasing a Traxxas Slash. The Traxxas Slash Short-
Traxxas Support
Course Race Truck puts you in the drivers seat for intense fender-
4 Safety Precautions Traxxas support is with you every step of the
to-fender, high-flying off-road action. The full-scale Short-Course
way. Refer to the next page to find out how to
Race Trucks embody the spirit of Traxxas R/C with their extreme
5 Tools, Supplies and contact us and what your support options are.
800+ horsepower racing engines full-throttle, dirt-roosting power
Required Equipment slides, giant suspension travel, and Supercross-style big-air jumps.
Quick Start
The Traxxas Slash brings all the action home so you can experience
6 Anatomy of This manual is designed with a Quick
the high-speed head-to-head competition at the track or in your
the Slash Start path that outlines the necessary
own backyard. The Slash was inspired by full-scale rear-wheel drive
procedures to get your model up
trucks purpose built to fly over jumps and rip full-throttle through
7 Quick Start: and running in the shortest time possible. If you are an
the turns. The Traxxas Slash hangs it out for an all new way to
Getting Up experienced R/C enthusiast you will find it helpful and fast.
challenge your driving skills. The 4-wheel independent suspension
to Speed Be sure and read through the rest of the manual to learn
has been carefully tuned to replicate the full-scale driving and
about important safety, maintenance, and adjustment
handling experience as closely as possible. The scale appearing
8 Decorating procedures. Turn to page 7 to begin.
tires provide just the right amount of bite and thick, blinding
Your Model clouds of dirt roost.
9 The Traxxas We know you’re excited about getting your new model on the
TQ Radio System road, but it’s very important that you take some time to read
through the Owners Manual. This manual contains all the necessary
15 Adjusting the set-up and operating procedures that allow you to unlock the
Electronic Speed performance and potential that Traxxas engineers designed into
Control your model. Even if you are an experienced R/C enthusiast, it’s
important to read and follow the procedures in this manual.
17 Driving Your Model
We want you to feel confident that you own one of the best-
19 Adjusting performing models in the market and that it is backed by a team
Your Model of professionals who aim to provide the highest level of factory
support possible. Traxxas models are about experiencing total
22 Maintaining performance and satisfaction, not just with your model, but also
Your Model with the company that stands behind it. We truly want you to enjoy
your new model!
23 Troubleshooting
Thank you again for going with Traxxas.
2 • Slash
4. Safety Precautions
Don’t Get Burned: The transistor tabs and the heat sinks can get extremely hot,
All of us at Traxxas want you to safely enjoy your new model. Operate your
model sensibly and with care, and it will be exciting, safe, and fun for you and so be careful not to touch them until they cool. Supply adequate airflow for
All instructions and
those around you. Failure to operate your model in a safe and responsible cooling.
precautions outlined in this
Always Use Heat Sinks: Three heat sinks are factory-installed on the speed
manner may result in property damage and serious injury. The precautions
manual should be strictly
outlined in this manual should be strictly followed to help ensure safe control and must be used for maximum cooling and performance.
followed to ensure safe
4 to 8-Cells Only: The XL-5 can only accept a maximum input voltage
operation. You alone must see that the instructions are followed and the
operation of your model.
precautions are adhered to. of 9.6 volts. Always adhere to the minimum and maximum limitations
of the XL-5 as stated in the specifications table.
Important Points to Remember Use Stock Connectors: If you decide to change the battery or motor connectors,
Your model is not intended for use on public roads or congested areas where
only change one battery or motor connector at a time.
This model is not intended its operation can conflict with or disrupt pedestrian or vehicular traffic.
This will prevent accidentally mis-wiring the speed control. If the XL-5 is not
for use by children under Never, under any circumstances, operate the model in crowds of people. Your
wired exactly as shown in the diagram, it can be damaged! Please note that
8 years of age without the model is very fast and could cause injury if allowed to collide with anyone.
modified speed controls can be subject to a rewiring fee when returned for
supervision of a responsible Because your model is controlled by radio, it is subject to radio interference
service.
and knowledgeable adult. from many sources that are beyond your control. Since radio interference
No Reverse Voltage: The speed control is not protected against reverse polarity
can cause momentary losses of radio control, always allow a safety margin in
voltage. When changing the battery and/or motor, be sure to install the same
all directions around the model in order to prevent collisions.
type of connectors to avoid reverse polarity damage to the speed control.
The motor, battery, and speed control can become hot during use. Be careful
Removing the battery connectors on the speed control or using the same-
to avoid getting burned.
gender connectors on the speed control will void the product’s warranty.
Don’t operate your model at night, or anytime your line of sight to the model
Do Not Let the Transistor Tabs Touch: Never allow the three separate transistor
may be obstructed or impaired in any way.
banks to touch each other or any exposed metal. This will create a short circuit
Most importantly, use good common sense at all times.
and damage the speed control. (For example, laying a metal tool across the
Batteries and Charging heatsinks can damage the speed control.)
Your model uses rechargeable batteries that must be handled with care for Advanced Precautions
safety and long battery life. Make sure to read and follow all instructions and Motor Limit: The XL-5 has a 15-turn modified motor limit for 540 size motor and
No previous experience precautions that were provided with your battery packs and your charger. It a 12-turn modified motor limit for 550 size motor when the motor is properly
with radio controlled is your responsibility to charge and care for your battery backs properly. In geared. If the motor or speed control is overheating, try a smaller pinion gear.
models is required. addition to your battery and charger instructions, here are some more tips to Do not attempt to use a more powerful motor (fewer turns) than the above
Models require a minimum keep in mind. mentioned motor limits or you could experience frequent thermal shutdown.
of setup, maintenance, or Insulate the Wires: Always insulate exposed wiring with heat shrink tubing to
Never leave batteries to charge unattended.
support equipment. prevent short circuits.
Remove the batteries from the model while charging.
Use Neutrally Timed Motor: For reverse use, the motor must have 0° timing.
Always unplug the battery from the electronic speed control when the model
Modified motor (with adjustable end bells) timed to 0° or Johnson/ Mabuchi
is not in use and when it is being stored or transported.
(closed end bell) motor are recommended. Using motor with other than 0°
Allow the battery packs to cool off between runs (before charging).
timing will draw excess current in reverse, and can result in the speed control
Do not use battery packs that have been damaged in any way.
overheating and premature motor wear.
Do not use battery packs that have damaged wiring, exposed wiring, or a
Motor Capacitors Required: Ceramic capacitors should be properly installed on
damaged connector.
every motor to prevent radio interference. These are already installed on the
Children should have responsible adult supervision when charging and
factory Titan motor.
handling batteries.
No Schottky Diodes: External schottky diodes are not compatible with reversing
Speed Control speed controls. Using a schottky diode with the XL-5 will damage the ESC and
General Precautions void the 30-day warranty
Disconnect the Batteries: Always disconnect the battery pack from
the speed control when not in use.
Transmitter on First: Switch on your transmitter first before switching on the
speed control to prevent runaways and erratic performance.
4 • Slash
5. Tools, Supplies and Required Equipment
Your model comes with a set of specialty metric tools. You’ll need to purchase other items, available from your hobby dealer, to operate
and maintain your model.
For more information on
batteries, see Use the Right
Supplied Tools and Equipment Batteries on page 11.
A peak-detecting charger
is recommended for best
performance and longest
battery life. For more
2.5mm “L” wrench 2.0mm “L” wrench 1.5mm “L” wrench U-joint wrench 4-way wrench
Turnbuckle wrench
information, see Use the
Right Charger on page 10.
Recommended Equipment
These items are not required
for the operation of your
model, but are a good idea to
Optional Pinion Antenna nut Aftermarket Pre-load spacers and shock pistons Body clips and Battery hold-down pad (to reduce include in any R/C toolbox:
Gear see page 20 wrench servo adapters body washers
(on parts tree) see page 19 battery vibration, if necessary) • Safety glasses
• Thin, hobby-quality
cyanoacrylate instant tire
glue (CA glue)
• Hobby knife
Required Tools and Equipment • Side cutters and/or needle
(sold separately)
nose pliers
• Philips screwdriver
• Soldering iron
NiMH battery charger Charging adapter - Traxxas part #3061
8 AA alkaline 6 or 7-cell NiMH battery pack with
(peak detecting type recommended)
batteries Traxxas High-Current Connector (if your battery charger has a Molex connector)
see sidebar
Slash • 5
6. Anatomy of the Slash
Steering Block
Electronic Speed
Turnbuckle
Control (XL-5)
(Rear Camber Link)
Chassis
Caster Block
Half Shaft Antenna Mount
Front Body
Rear Battery Hold-Down Suspension
Mount
Body Mount Arm (Front)
Receiver Box
Front Shock
Motor (Titan 12T)
Front Bumper
Tower
Transmission
Rear Bumper
Shock
Pinion Gear
(Oil Damper)
Nerf Bar
Spur Gear
Turnbuckle
(Front Camber Link)
Traxxas High- Battery
Slipper Clutch
Current Connector Compartment
Turnbuckle
Suspension Arm (Rear) (Toe Link)
Rear Shock Tower Steering Servo
6 • Traxxas
7. Quick Start: Getting up to Speed
The following guide is an overview of the procedures for getting your model running. Look for the Quick Start logo on the bottom
corners of Quick Start pages. The Quick Start Guide is
not intended to replace the
1. Read the safety precautions on page 4 7. Check servo operation • See page 14 full operating instructions
available in this manual.
For your own safety, understand where carelessness and misuse Make sure the steering servo is working correctly.
Please read this entire
could lead to personal injury.
manual for complete
instructions on the proper
2. Charge the battery pack • See sidebar, page 10 8. Range test the radio system • See page 14 use and maintenance of
your model.
Fully charge a 7.2-volt battery pack (not included). Charge your battery Follow this procedure to make sure your radio system works properly
now so it will be ready when you finish the other setup procedures. at a distance and that there is no interference from outside sources.
3. Install the antenna • See page 12 9. Detail your model • See page 8
Install the antenna mast in the model. Apply other decals if desired.
4. Install batteries in the transmitter • See page 11 10. Drive your model • See page 17
The transmitter requires 8 AA alkaline or rechargeable batteries. Driving tips and adjustments for your model.
5. Install battery pack in the model • See page 11 11. Maintaining your model • See page 22
Your model requires a fully charged 7.2-volt battery pack Follow these critical steps to maintain the performance
(not included). of your model and keep it in excellent running condition.
6. Turn on the radio system • See page 14
Make a habit of turning the transmitter on first, and off last.
Look for the Quick Start
logo at the bottom of
Quick Start pages.
Slash • 7
8. Decorating Your Model
Applying The Decals Tire Gluing
The main decals for your model have The factory tires on your model are
been applied at the factory. The decals already glued to the rims. The tires
are printed on self-adhesive clear mylar must be glued to the rims to prevent
and are die-cut for easy removal. Use a the rims from spinning inside the tires.
hobby knife to lift the corner of a decal The instructions here are provided to
and lift it from the backing. To apply the show you how to glue replacement
decals, place one end down, hold the tires to the rims in the future. Use CA
other end up, and gradually smooth the tire glue available from your local
decal down with your finger as you go. hobby dealer.
This will prevent air bubbles. Placing 1. Remove a wheel from your model using the 4-way wrench.
both ends of the decal down and then
2. Use your thumb to push the side of the tire away from the rim.
trying to smooth it out will result in air
Place one or two drops of CA glue into the opening and release the
pockets. Look at the photos on the box
tire. Capillary action will draw the glue around the bead of the tire.
for typical decal placement.
3. Repeat step two at four or five points around the rim, until the tire
is completely secured to the rim. Turn the rim over and repeat the
process for the inside of the rim/tire. Repeat for the other three
wheels.
4. Reinstall the wheels. Make sure none of the axle pins have fallen
out from behind the hex hubs.
8 • Slash
9. The Traxxas TQ Radio System
Wiring Diagram
Your model is equipped with the Traxxas TQ Radio System.
The Traxxas TQ Radio System is a 2-channel system that provides Motor The following Traxxas High
high-power output up to a quarter mile. Your model uses one servo (Titan® 12T)
Antenna Current Connector packages
and an electronic speed control. are available from your
Receiver hobby dealer. When using
adapters, be careful not to
TQ Transmitter exceed the current rating
of the Molex connector. See
page 11 for more information.
Throttle Neutral Adjust
Antenna
Steering Wheel
XL-5 Electronic
Throttle Trim
Speed Control
Part #3060 Part #3080
Channel 2
Single Male/Female 2-Pack Female
Steering Trim
Traxxas High-Current
* Not Used
Connector (Male)
to Battery
Steering Servo Part #3061 Part #3070
Channel 1 Male Charge Adapter 2-Pack Male
XL-5 Electronic Speed Control
Part #3062
To Motor
Throttle Female Charge Adapter
Trigger
Traxxas High-Current
Connector (Male)
to Battery
Servo Reversing
Switch
CH.2
CH.1
Heat Sinks
LED Set Button
Power Indicator
Power Switch Battery Compartment
Slash • 9
10. The Traxxas TQ Radio System
Radio and Power System Terminology mAh – Abbreviation for milliamp hour. A measure of the capacity of the
battery pack. The higher the number, the longer the battery will last
Please take a moment to familiarize yourself with these radio and power
Use the Right Charger between recharges.
system terms. They will be used throughout this manual.
The most convenient type
Neutral position - The standing position that the servos seek when the
BEC (Battery Eliminator Circuit) - The BEC can either be in the receiver or
of charger is an AC peak-
transmitter controls are at the neutral setting.
in the ESC. This circuit allows the receiver and servos to be powered by
detecting charger that plugs
the main battery pack in an electric model. This eliminates the need to
directly into an AC wall NiCad - Abbreviation for nickel-cadmium. The original rechargeable
outlet. It contains special carry a separate pack of 4 AA batteries to power the radio equipment. hobby pack, NiCad batteries have very high current handling, high
peak-detection circuitry capacity, and can last up to 1000 charging cycles. Good charging
Channel - The 27 MHz frequency band is divided into 6 channels so that
that automatically shuts the procedures are required to reduce the possibility of developing a
up to six models can be operated simultaneously. Each channel is
charger off when the battery
“memory” effect and shortened run times.
referred to by its flag color and channel number, as shown below.
is fully charged.
NiMH - Abbreviation for nickel-metal hydride. Rechargeable NiMH
Frequency Flag Traxxas
Channel
Band Color Part No. batteries offer high current handling, and much greater resistance
If you’re using a 15-minute
1 26.995 Brown 2031
to the “memory” effect. NiMH batteries generally allow higher
timed charger, always fully
capacity than NiCad batteries. They can last up to 500 charge cycles.
discharge the battery pack 2 27.045 Red 2032
A peak charger designed for NiMH batteries is required for optimal
before each charge. Some 3 27.095 Orange 2033
high mAh battery packs performance.
4 27.145 Yellow 2034
(1500 mAh or higher) require
Receiver - The radio unit inside your model that receives signals from the
more than the standard 15 5 27.195 Green 2035
transmitter and relays them to the servos.
minutes of charge time. If 6 27.255 Blue 2036
Resistance - In an electrical sense, resistance is a measure of how an
the battery pack is cold after
object resists or obstructs the flow of current through it. When flow is
15 minutes of charging, Clearing your frequency - A routine, verbal check to make sure nobody
constricted, energy is converted to heat and is lost.
add another 5 minutes of else in your area is operating on the same channel. Always clear your
charge time. Closely monitor Servo - Small motor unit in your model that operates the steering
frequency by calling out your channel number before operating
the battery pack and stop mechanism.
your model. Wait or move to another area if your channel is already
charging it when it begins
being used. Transmitter - The hand-held radio unit that sends throttle and steering
to feel warm to the touch.
instructions to your model.
Crystal (X-tal) - The plug-in device that determines which channel the
Never leave a battery
radio system will operate on. For each channel, there are two crystals,
charging unattended. Trim - The fine-tuning adjustment of the neutral position of the servos,
one for the receiver and one for the transmitter. Of those two crystals,
Always follow charger made by adjusting the throttle and steering trim sliders on the face of
the one marked with the lower number (.455 MHz lower) must be
manufacturer’s instructions. the transmitter.
inserted into the receiver.
Thermal Shutdown Protection - Temperature sensing electronics
Current - Current is a measure of power flow through the electronics, are used in the ESC to detect overloading and overheating of the
usually measured in amps. If you look at wire like a garden hose, transistor circuitry. If excessive temperature is detected, the unit
current is a measure of how much water is flowing through the hose. automatically shuts down to prevent damage to the electronics.
ESC (Electronic Speed Control) - An electronic speed control is the 2-channel radio system - The TQ radio system, consisting of
electronic motor control inside the model. The XL-5 uses MOSFET the receiver, the transmitter, and the servos. The system uses
power transistors to provide precise, digital proportional throttle two channels: one to operate the throttle and one to operate
control. Electronic speed controls use power more efficiently than the steering.
mechanical speed controls so that the batteries run longer. An
Voltage - Voltage is a measure of the electrical potential difference
electronic speed control also has circuitry that prevents loss of steering
between two points, such as between the positive battery terminal
and throttle control as the batteries lose their charge.
and ground. Using the analogy of the garden hose, while current is
Frequency band - The radio frequency used by the transmitter to send the quantity of water flow in the hose, voltage corresponds to the
signals to your model. All Traxxas RTR models operate on a 27 MHz pressure that is forcing the water through the hose.
frequency band.
10 • Slash
11. The Traxxas TQ Radio System
Installing Transmitter Batteries Using Different Battery Configuration
The battery hold-downs are capable of accommodating either side-by-
Your TQ transmitter uses 8 AA batteries. The battery compartment is Use the Right Batteries
side racing style packs or the more common stick packs. The battery
located in the base of the transmitter. Your transmitter uses AA
compartments are configured for stick packs from the factory. The batteries. Use new alkaline
1. Remove the battery
batteries, or rechargeable
number on each side of the hold down indicates the battery height
compartment door by
batteries such as NiCad
in millimeters that hold-down can accommodate. Note that one side
pressing the tab and
or NiMH (Nickel Metal
is labeled “25” and other side is labeled “23”. The 25mm side is for use
lifting the door up.
Hydride) batteries in your
with typical stick type battery packs. If you are using side-by-side racing
2. Install the batteries in transmitter. Make sure
packs, simply flip the hold-down over to the 23mm side and use it on the
the correct orientation rechargeable batteries are
opposite side of the chassis.
as indicated in the fully charged according
25mm side: Standard
battery compartment. to the manufacturer’s
NiMH stick pack setup
3. Reinstall the battery instructions.
door and snap it closed.
If you use rechargeable
4. Turn on the transmitter
batteries in your
and check the power indicator for a solid red light.
transmitter, be aware
23mm side: Side-by-side
NiMH pack setup
If the power indicator light that when they begin
to lose their charge, they
flashes, then the transmitter
lose power more quickly
batteries are weak, discharged
than regular alkaline
CH.1
or possibly installed incorrectly.
CH.2
batteries.
Replace with new or freshly The Traxxas High Current Connector
charged batteries. The power Your model is equipped with the Traxxas High- Caution: Discontinue
indicator light does not indicate the charge level of the battery pack running your model at the
Current Connector. Standard connectors restrict
installed in the model. first sign of weak batteries
current flow and are not capable of delivering
(flashing red light) to avoid
Installing the Battery Pack the power needed to maximize the output of
losing control.
the XL-5. The Traxxas connector’s gold-plated
Install the battery pack with
terminals with a large contact surfaces ensure positive current flow
the battery wires facing
If the power indicator
with the least amount of resistance. Secure, long-lasting, and easy to
the rear of the model. Your
doesn’t light red, check the
grip, the Traxxas connector is engineered to extract all the power your
model includes a foam
polarity of the batteries.
battery has to give.
block which should be Check rechargeable
installed in front of 6-cell batteries for a full charge.
To run this model, your batteries must be equipped with Traxxas
batteries for a more secure High-Current Connectors. Batteries can either be purchased new with
fit. Remove the foam block Traxxas connectors installed or Traxxas connectors can be purchased
for use with 7-cell “flat” to install on battery packs you already own. See sidebar on page 9 for
packs. Insert the tabs of the packages available from your hobby dealer.
battery hold-down into the
The typical Molex style connector is inadequate for
slots in the rear hold-down Foam Block
use in your model. It creates resistance that becomes
retainer and then place the
a bottleneck to current flow. If your battery pack is
battery hold-down over the
equipped with a Molex connector, it must be replaced
post. Secure the battery hold-down with body clip in the hole in the
with a Traxxas High-Current Connector to mate with
post. Do not connect the battery pack yet. Molex
the XL-5 electronic speed control. connector
Slash • 11
12. The Traxxas TQ Radio System
Setting up the Antenna TQ Radio System Controls
You must install the antenna mast Steering
Spray a little window cleaner Antenna
(tube) before you operate your model.
on the antenna wire to make Tip
You’ll find the assembled plastic
it easier to push through the
antenna tube and tip laying in
antenna tube.
TU
TUR EFT
the chassis.
RN RIGHT
NL
1. Remove the antenna tip.
If there are any kinks in the
black antenna wire, it will 2. Pull the slack wire through the antenna
be more difficult to push tube, and then insert the base of the
through the antenna tube.
antenna tube into the antenna post Antenna
Pull the wire straight by
on the receiver box. Take care not to Brake/Reverse
Tube
sandwiching it between your
crimp the antenna wire.
thumb and index finger and
running your fingers along
3. Slide the crimp nut over the antenna
the length of the wire (with
tube and screw it into the antenna
medium pressure).
post. Slide the antenna wrench over
the antenna tube and tighten the
crimp nut on the post just until the Neutral
Don’t shorten the length of antenna tube is securely in place. Do
the antenna wire. Its length not over tighten or crush the antenna
is tuned to the frequency wire against the chassis.
band; cutting it could
Antenna
severely shorten the radio
4. Fold the top of the antenna wire over Wrench
CH.1
CH.2
system’s range.
the top of the antenna tube. Slide
the antenna tip onto the top of the Accelerate
antenna tube. Never cut or shorten Antenna
Don’t push the transmitter the antenna wire. Crimp Nut
antenna down from the
top. Pull it down from the 5. On the transmitter, always fully
bottom, one segment at a extend the telescoping antenna
time, to prevent binding and
when running your model. Make a
kinking the antenna mast. TQ Radio System Adjustments
habit of holding the transmitter so
In addition to the electronic throttle and steering trim controls,
the antenna points straight up.
your radio system features throttle neutral adjustment and servo
reversing switches. These are preset at the factory and should not
require further adjustment.
Throttle Neutral Adjustment
The throttle neutral adjustment is located on the transmitter face
and controls the forward/reverse travel of the throttle trigger.
Change the adjustment by pressing the button and sliding it to the
desired position.
12 • Slash
13. The Traxxas TQ Radio System
There are two settings available:
50/50: Allows equal travel for both
acceleration and reverse.
70/30: Allows more throttle travel (70%)
and less reverse travel (30%).
Note: If you change throttle travel, you
will need to reprogram the electronic
speed control.
Electronic Throttle Trim
The electronic throttle trim located on the face of the transmitter
adjusts the neutral (center) point of the throttle servo when the
servo is at rest. Your model uses an electronic speed control
instead of a throttle servo, this control has been preset for you at
the factory.
Electronic Steering Trim
The electronic steering trim located on the face of the transmitter
adjusts the neutral (center) point of the steering servo when
the servo is at rest. Adjust this control to make the model drive
straight with no steering input at the wheel.
Servo Reversing Switches
The servo reversing switches are located on the front of the
transmitter, next to the on/off switch. Moving a switch reverses CH.2
CH.1
the direction of the corresponding servo.
Each switch corresponds to a channel, as shown below. For
example, if you turn the steering wheel to the right and your
wheels turn left, you would move the Channel 1 switch to
correct the servo direction. It may be necessary to adjust the
corresponding trim control after moving a switch.
Channel Servo
1 Steering
CH.2
CH.1
2 Throttle
Default Setting
Slash • 13
14. The Traxxas TQ Radio System
TQ Radio System Rules 3. Plug the battery pack in the model into the speed control.
Channel 1
Each time you prepare to run your model, you Brown
Remember, always turn the 4. The on/off switch is integrated into the speed control. With
must clear your frequency to be sure no one Channel 2
TQ transmitter on first and
the transmitter on, press the XL-5 set button for ½ second, until
Red
else in the area is using the same channel as
off last to avoid damage to
the LED shines GREEN, then immediately release the button. This
Channel 3
you. There are six possible channels, numbered
your model. Orange
turns the model on (see page 15 for more on XL-5 setup and
1 through 6. Each is represented by a color. Channel 4
operation). To turn the XL-5 off, press the set button until the
Look at the crystal plugged into the back of Yellow
green LED turns off.
your transmitter to determine which channel Channel 5
Green
your model is assigned to. 5. Turn the steering wheel on the transmitter back and forth and
Your speed control was Channel 6
check for rapid operation of the steering servo. Also, check that
adjusted to the radio from Blue
Always turn your TQ transmitter on first and off
the factory. It is possible the steering mechanism is not loose or binding. If the steering
last. This procedure will help to prevent your model
for the throttle trim control operates slowly, check for weak batteries.
from receiving stray signals from another transmitter,
on the transmitter to have
or other source, and running out of control. 6. When looking down at model, the front wheels should be
moved during transit
pointing straight ahead. If the wheels are turned slightly to
or while handling the Always have the transmitter turned on before plug in
the left or right, slowly adjust the steering trim control on the
transmitter. If the motor the battery.
transmitter until they are pointing straight ahead.
runs when the model is
Always use new or freshly charged batteries for the radio
switched on, then move the
7. Operate the throttle trigger to ensure that you have full forward
system. Weak batteries will limit the range of the radio signal
throttle trim control on the
and reverse operation, and that the motor stops when the
between the receiver and the transmitter. Loss of the radio
transmitter until the motor
throttle trigger is at neutral.
signal can cause you to lose control of your model.
stops. If anything more
than a slight adjustment of 8. Once adjustments are made, turn off your model, followed by
the throttle trim control is the hand held transmitter.
3
2
1
required, then you should
Range-Testing the TQ Radio System
readjust your speed control.
Refer to the adjustments Before each running session with your model, you should range-
section on page 15. test your radio system to ensure that it operates properly.
CH.1
CH.2
1. Turn on the radio system and check its operation as described
in the previous section.
Always turn your Turn on the model.
When rechargeable batteries Plug in the battery.
transmitter on first. see TQ Radio System Setup, step 4.
2. Have a friend hold the model. Make sure hands and clothing are
begin to lose their charge,
clear of the wheels and other moving parts on the model.
they will fade much faster
than alkaline dry cells. Stop
3. Make sure your transmitter antenna is fully extended, and then
TQ Radio System Setup
immediately at the first sign
walk away from the model with the transmitter until you reach
The TQ Radio System was pre-adjusted at the factory. The
of weak batteries. Never turn
the farthest distance you plan to operate the model.
adjustment should be checked, before running the model,
the transmitter off when the
in case of movement during shipping. Here’s how:
battery pack is plugged 4. Operate the controls on the transmitter once again to be sure
in. The model could run out 1. Fully extend the chrome antenna mast on the transmitter and that the model responds correctly.
of control. turn the switch on. The red indicator light on the transmitter
5. Do not attempt to operate the model if there is any problem
should be solid red (not flashing).
with the radio system or any external interference with your
2. Elevate the model so that the rear tires are off the ground. radio signal at your location.
If you are holding the model, grip it firmly. Make sure your
hands are clear of the moving parts of the model.
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15. Adjusting the Electronic Speed Control
XL-5 Operation
XL-5 electronic speed controls are factory set and should not require any
adjustments. These instructions are provided for your reference. XL-5 Specifications
To operate the speed control and test the programming, reconnect the
Input voltage:
motor wires and place the vehicle on a stable block or stand so that all
Transmitter Adjustments for the XL-5 ESC 4 to 8 cells (4.8 to 9.6V)
of the driven wheels are off the ground.
Before attempting to program your XL-5 ESC, it is important to make Motor limit:
sure that your transmitter is properly adjusted (set back to the factory 15-turns (540)
1. With the transmitter on, press the set button for ½ second, until the
12-turns (550)
defaults). Otherwise, you may not get the best performance from your LED shines GREEN, then immediately release the button. This turns
Peak current - fwd/rev:
speed control. the XL-5 on. If you press and release too quickly, you may hear the 60A/60A
steering servo jump but the LED may not stay on. Simply press the
The transmitter should be adjusted as follows: Braking current:
button again until the LED shines GREEN and then release. (Note: If the 60A
1. Set the throttle neutral switch to the 50/50 setting.
throttle is not at neutral or if the throttle trim has been altered, the LED BEC voltage:
2. Set the throttle trim to the middle “0” setting. This adjusts the
6V
will turn off after one second and the wheels may begin to drive.)
neutral position.
Transistor type:
2. Apply forward throttle. The LED will turn off until full throttle power is
3. Set the Channel 2 servo reversing switch to the left position. MOSFET
reached. At full throttle, the led will shine GREEN.
4. Do not change the position of any of the servo reversing switches Battery connector:
3. Move the trigger forward to apply the brakes. Note that braking
after programming the XL-5 ESC. Traxxas High-Current
control is fully proportional. The LED will turn off until full braking Connector
XL-5 Setup Programming (Calibrating your ESC and transmitter) power is reached. At full brakes, the LED will shine GREEN.
XL-5 Wiring Diagram
Read through all of the programming steps before you begin. If you get 4. Return the throttle trigger to neutral. The LED will shine GREEN.
lost during programming or receive unexpected results, simply unplug 5. Move the throttle trigger forward again to engage reverse (Profile #1).
the battery, wait a few seconds, plug the battery back in, and start over. The LED will turn off. Once full reverse power is reached, the LED will
A shine GREEN.
1. Disconnect one of the motor wires between the
6. To stop, return the throttle trigger to neutral. Note that there is
XL-5 and the motor. This is a precaution to prevent
no programmed delay when changing from reverse to forward.
runaway when the speed control is turned on before
Use caution to avoid slamming the speed control from reverse to
it is programmed.
forward. On high-traction surfaces, this could result in transmission
2. Connect a fully charged Green then Red
or driveline damage.
battery pack to the XL-5. B 7. To turn the XL-5 off, press the set button until the green LED turns off.
3. Turn on the transmitter
Thermal Shutdown Protection
(with the throttle at neutral).
The XL-5 is equipped with thermal shutdown protection to guard
4. Press and hold the ESC set button
against overheating caused by excessive current flow. If the operating
(A). The LED will first turn green and Once Red
temperature exceeds safe limits, the XL-5 will automatically shut down.
then red. Release the set button. C The LED on the face of the XL-5 will continuously shine green, even
5. When the LED blinks RED ONCE. Pull if the throttle trigger is moved back and forth. Once the temperature
the throttle trigger to the full throttle returns to a safe level, the XL-5 will once again function normally.
position and hold it there (B).
XL-5 Profile Selection
6. When the LED blinks RED TWICE. Twice Red
The speed control is factory set to Profile #1 (100% forward, brakes, and
Push the throttle trigger to the full D reverse). To disable reverse (Profile #2) or to allow 50% forward and
reverse and hold it there (C).
50% reverse (Profile #3), follow the steps on page 16. The speed control
7. When the LED turns solid GREEN, programming is should be connected to the receiver and battery, and the transmitter
complete. The LED will continuously shines green should be adjusted as described previously. The profiles are selected
indicating the XL-5 is on and at neutral (D). by entering the programming mode.
Solid Green
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16. Adjusting the Electronic Speed Control
Profile Description
Profile #1 (Sport Mode): 100% Forward, 100% Brakes, 100% Reverse
Patent-Pending Training Profile #2 (Race Mode): 100% Forward, 100% Brakes, No Reverse
Mode (Profile #3) reduces Profile #3 (Training Mode): 50% Forward, 100% Brakes, 50% Reverse
forward and reverse throttle
Selecting Sport Mode (Profile #1: 100% Forward, 100% Brakes, 100% Reverse)
by 50%. Training Mode
1. Connect a fully charged battery
is provided to reduce the A B
power output allowing pack to the XL-5 and turn on your
beginning drivers to better transmitter.
control the model. As driving 2. With the XL-5 off, press and hold
skills improve, simply change
the set button until the light turns Green to Red to Off One blink Red
to Sport or Race Mode for
solid green, then solid red and then C D
full-power operation.
begins blinking red (indicating the
Profile numbers).
3. When the light blinks red once,
Tip For Fast Mode Changes release the set button. Release Solid Green
The XL-5 is set to Profile 1
4. The light will then turn green and the model is ready to drive.
(Sport Mode) as the default.
To quickly change to Profile 3 Selecting Race Mode (Profile #2: 100% Forward, 100% Brakes, No Reverse)
(Training Mode), with the 1. Connect a fully charged battery A B
transmitter on, press and pack to the XL-5 and turn on your
hold the SET button until the transmitter.
light blinks red three times
2. With the XL-5 off, press and hold
and then release.
the set button until the light turns Green to Red to Off Two blinks Red
For full power, quickly change
solid green, then solid red and then C D
back to Profile 1 (Sport Mode)
begins blinking red (indicating the
by pressing and holding the
Profile numbers).
SET button until the light
3. When the light blinks red twice,
blinks red one time and
release the set button.
then releasing. Release Solid Green
4. The light will then turn green and the model is ready to drive.
Selecting Training Mode (Profile #3: 50% Forward, 100% Brakes, 50% Reverse)
1. Connect a fully charged battery A B
pack to the XL-5 and turn on your
transmitter.
2. With the XL-5 off, press and hold
the set button until the light turns Green to Red to Off Three blinks Red
solid green, then solid red and then C D
begins blinking red (indicating the
Profile numbers).
3. When the light blinks red three
times, release the set button. Release Solid Green
4. The light will then turn green and the model is ready to drive.
Note: If you missed the mode you wanted, keep the SET button
pressed down and the blink cycle will repeat until a Mode is selected.
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