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8 • E-MAXX

TRAXXAS TQ

i

 RADIO SYSTEM

Applying the Decals

The main decals for your 
model have been applied at 
the factory. The decals are 
printed on self-adhesive clear 
mylar and are die-cut for easy 
removal. Use a hobby knife to 
lift the corner of a decal and 
lift it from the backing. 

To apply the decals, place 
one end down, hold the 
other end up, and gradually 
smooth the decal down with 
your finger as you go. This 
will prevent air bubbles. 
Placing both ends of the 
decal down and then trying 
to smooth it out will result 
in air pockets.  Look at the 
photos on the box for typical 
decal placement.

INTRODUCTION

Your model includes the latest Traxxas TQi 2.4GHz transmitter with 
Traxxas Link

 Model Memory. The transmitter’s easy-to-use design 

provides instant driving fun for new R/C enthusiasts, and also offers 
a full compliment of pro-level tuning features for advanced users 
– or anyone interested in experimenting with the performance of 
their model. The steering and throttle channels feature adjustable 
Exponential, End Points, and Sub-Trims. Steering and braking Dual 
Rate are also available. Many of the next-level features are controlled 
by the Multi-Function knob, which can be programmed to control 
a variety functions. The detailed instructions (page 27) and Menu 
Tree (page 29) included in this manual will help you understand and 
operate the advanced functions of the new TQi radio system. For 
additional information and how-to videos, visit Traxxas.com.

RADIO AND POWER SYSTEM TERMINOLOGY

Please take a moment to familiarize yourself with these radio and 
power system terms. They will be used throughout this manual.
A detailed explanation of the advanced terminology and features 
of your new radio system begins on page 27.

BEC (Battery Eliminator Circuit)

 - The BEC can either be in the 

receiver or in the ESC. This circuit allows the receiver and servos 
to be powered by the main battery pack in an electric model. 
This eliminates the need to carry a separate pack of 4 AA 
batteries to power the radio equipment.

Current

 - Current is a measure of power flow through the 

electronics, usually measured in amps. If you think of a wire as a 
garden hose, current is a measure of how much water is flowing 
through the hose.

ESC (Electronic Speed Control)

 - An electronic speed control 

is the electronic motor control inside the model.  The EVX-2 
uses MOSFET power transistors to provide precise, digital 
proportional throttle control. Electronic speed controls use 
power more efficiently than mechanical speed controls so that 
the batteries run longer. An electronic speed control also has 
circuitry that prevents loss of steering and throttle control as the 
batteries lose their charge.

550 and 540

 - These numbers refer to the size of the motor. 550 

motors have armatures that are 30% longer than 540 motors.

Frequency band

 - The radio frequency used by the transmitter to 

send signals to your model. This model operates on the 2.4GHz 
direct-sequence spread spectrum.

LiPo

 - Abbreviation for Lithium Polymer. Rechargeable LiPo 

battery packs are known for their special chemistry that allows 
extremely high energy density and current handling in a 
compact size. These are high performance batteries that require 
special care and handling. For advanced users only.

mAh

 – Abbreviation for milliamp hour. A measure of the capacity 

of the battery pack. The higher the number, the longer the 
battery will last between recharges.

Neutral position

 - The standing position that the servos seek 

when the transmitter controls are at the neutral setting.

NiCad

 - Abbreviation for nickel-cadmium. The original 

rechargeable hobby pack, NiCad batteries have very high current 
handling, high capacity, and can last up to 1000 charging cycles. 
Good charging procedures are required to reduce the possibility 
of developing a “memory” effect and shortened run times.

NiMH

 - Abbreviation for nickel-metal hydride.  Rechargeable 

NiMH batteries offer high current handling, and much greater 
resistance to the “memory” effect. NiMH batteries generally 
allow higher capacity than NiCad batteries. They can last up to 
500 charge cycles. A peak charger designed for NiMH batteries is 
required for optimal performance.

Receiver

 - The radio unit inside your model that receives signals 

from the transmitter and relays them to the servos.

Resistance 

- In an electrical sense, resistance is a measure of how 

an object resists or obstructs the flow of current through it. 
When flow is constricted, energy is converted to heat and is lost. 

Servo

 - Small motor unit in your model that operates the steering 

mechanism. 

Transmitter

 - The hand-held radio unit that sends throttle and 

steering instructions to your model.

Trim

 - The fine-tuning adjustment of the neutral position of the 

servos, made by adjusting the throttle and steering trim knobs 
on the face of the transmitter. Note: The Multi Function knob 
must be programmed to serve as a throttle trim adjustment.

8

Summary of Contents for 39036 E-Maxx

Page 1: ...MODEL 3903 owners manual ...

Page 2: ... factory support possible Traxxas models are about experiencing total performance and satisfaction not just with your model but also with the company that stands behind it We know you re excited about getting your new model on the road but it s very important that you take some time to read through the Owners Manual This manual contains all the necessary set up and operating procedures that allow ...

Page 3: ...sted areas where its operation can conflict with or disrupt pedestrian or vehicular traffic Never under any circumstances operate the model in crowds of people Your model is very fast and could cause injury if allowed to collide with anyone Because your model is controlled by radio it is subject to radio interference from many sources that are beyond your control Since radio interference can cause...

Page 4: ...e Detection that alerts the driver when LiPo batteries have reached their minimum voltage discharge threshold It is the driver s responsibility to stop immediately to prevent the battery pack from being discharged below its safe minimum threshold Low Voltage Detection on the speed control is just one part of a comprehensive plan for safe LiPo battery use It is critical for you the user to follow a...

Page 5: ...liers Philips screwdriver Soldering iron For more information on batteries see Use the Right Batteries on page 11 Pre load spacers and shock pistons on parts tree seepage21 Foam blocks battery spacers seepage12 2 0mm T wrench 8mm 5mm wrench Antenna nut wrench 2 5mm L wrench Suspension multi tool Body clips Universal wrench 4 AA alkaline batteries Two 7 cell NiMH battery packs with Traxxas High Cur...

Page 6: ...Body Mount Hex Hub Suspension Arm Rear Axle Carrier Pivot Ball Toe Link Turnbuckle Receiver Box Front Bulkhead Front Differential Skid Plate Light Pipe Steering Servo Steering Servo Front Body Mount Battery Hold Down Battery Compartment Electronic Speed Control EVX 2 Battery Compartment Battery Hold Down Motors Titan Slipper Clutch Access Plug Rear Bumper Skid Plate Rear Bulkhead Spur Gear Pinion ...

Page 7: ... The transmitter requires 4 AA alkaline or rechargeable batteries Follow these critical steps to maintain the performance of your model and keep it in excellent running condition 4 Install battery packs in the model See page 12 Your model requires two fully charged battery packs included 5 Turn on the radio system See page 13 Make a habit of turning the transmitter on first and off last 6 Check se...

Page 8: ...OSFET power transistors to provide precise digital proportional throttle control Electronic speed controls use power more efficiently than mechanical speed controls so that the batteries run longer An electronic speed control also has circuitry that prevents loss of steering and throttle control as the batteries lose their charge 550 and 540 These numbers refer to the size of the motor 550 motors ...

Page 9: ...erminal and ground Using the analogy of the garden hose while current is the quantity of water flow in the hose voltage corresponds to the pressure that is forcing the water through the hose IMPORTANT radio system Precautions For maximum range always point the front of transmitter toward the model Do not kink the receiver s antenna wire Kinks in the antenna wire will reduce range DO NOT CUT any pa...

Page 10: ...t Connector Channel 2 EVX 2 Electronic Speed Control Channel 1 Steering Servos EVX 2 Wiring Diagram Your model is equipped with the newest TQi 2 4 GHz transmitter with Traxxas Link Model Memory The transmitter has two channels for controlling your throttle and steering The receiver inside the model has 5 output channels Your model is equipped with one servo and an electronic speed control Transmit...

Page 11: ...t the first sign of weak batteries flashing red light to avoid losing control TRAXXAS TQi RADIO SYSTEM 3 INSTALLING TRANSMITTER BATTERIES Your TQi transmitter uses 4 AA batteries The battery compartment is located in the base of the transmitter 1 Remove the battery compartment door by pressing the tab and sliding the door open 2 Install the batteries in the correct orientation as indicated in the ...

Page 12: ... Your model is equipped with the Traxxas High Current Connector Standard connectors restrict current flow and are not capable of delivering the power needed to maximize the output of the EVX 2 The Traxxas connector s gold plated terminals with a large contact surfaces ensure positive current flow with the least amount of resistance Secure long lasting and easy to grip the Traxxas connector is engi...

Page 13: ...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 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 We strongly recommend t...

Page 14: ... Operate the controls on the transmitter once again to be sure that the model responds correctly 5 Do not attempt to operate the model if there is any problem with the radio system or any external interference with your radio signal at your location Higher Speeds Require Greater Distance The faster you drive your model the more quickly it will near the limit of radio range At 60mph a model can cov...

Page 15: ...eering Sensitivity Negative Exponential By turning the Multi Function knob clockwise the steering sensitivity of the model will be decreased Note that a relatively large amount of steering wheel travel results in a smaller amount of servo travel The farther you turn the knob the more pronounced the effect becomes Decreased steering sensitivity may be helpful when driving on low traction surfaces w...

Page 16: ... neutral 4 Press and hold the EZ Set button A The LED will first turn green and then red Release the EZ Set button 5 When the LED blinks RED ONCE Pull the throttle trigger to the full throttle position and hold it there B 6 When the LED blinks RED TWICE Push the throttle trigger to the full reverse and hold it there C 7 When the LED blinks GREEN ONCE programming is complete The LED will then shine...

Page 17: ...mended discharge voltage threshold for LiPo battery packs the EVX 2 will limit the power output to 50 throttle When the battery voltage attempts to fall below the minimum threshold the EVX 2 will shut down all motor output The LED on the speed control will slowly blink red indicating a low voltage shutdown The EVX 2 will stay in this mode until a fully charged battery is connected Fast Blinking Gr...

Page 18: ... 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 bat...

Page 19: ...ll restrict the tires and put much higher loads on the motors Motor Precautions Titan motor life can be greatly reduced in mud and water If the motors get excessively wet or submerged use very light throttle run the motors slowly until the excess water can run out Applying full throttle to a motor full of water can cause rapid motor failure Your driving habits will determine motor life with wet mo...

Page 20: ...ent pending wire clamp feature gives you the ability to also install aftermarket radio systems and maintain the watertight features of the receiver box Removing the Receiver 1 To remove the cover remove the two 3x10mm button head cap screws 2 To remove the receiver from the box simply lift it out and set to the side The antenna wire is still inside the clamp area and cannot be removed yet 3 Remove...

Page 21: ...e pistons with a range of oil viscosities from 30W to 50W available from your hobby shop The thinner viscosity oils 30W or less flow with less resistance and provide less damping while thicker oils provide more damping Use only 100 pure silicone shock oil to prolong seal life From the factory the E Maxx uses 30W oil The ride height for the E Maxx can be adjusted by adding or removing the clip on s...

Page 22: ...air of lower shock mounting holes 1 2 and 3 4 has equal ride height Use lower ride height for high speed cornering and flat terrain and when racing on relatively smooth tracks Increase the ride height for rougher terrain and tracks Upper Shock Mounting Positions The upper shock mounting positions will have suspension effects opposite from the lower shock mounting positions Spring rate at the wheel...

Page 23: ...ut Note When camber is changed the toe angle of the wheel has to be reset Static Camber Base Factory Settings Front 1 degree negative camber each side Rear 1 degree negative camber each side TRANSMISSION TUNING Adjusting the Slipper Clutch The E Maxx is equipped with an adjustable Torque Control slipper clutch which is built into the large spur gear The purpose of the slipper clutch is to regulate...

Page 24: ... gear chart Going Brushless Brushless motors provide increased power output and greater efficiency The E Maxx is designed with extra transmission and driveline strength to make it capable of handling extreme brushless power One or two brushless motors may be used A specially designed motor plate part 3997X and gear cover part 3977X are available for optimized single motor installations If you plan...

Page 25: ...is also parallel to the servo horns If not make small adjustments to the length of the link so the everything is parallel 8 The steering should operation correctly with equal travel left and right Now connect the second servo 9 Confirm the length of the center drag link 89 5mm see template below 10 Connect the center drag link to one of the steering servos Check for alignment with the holes in the...

Page 26: ...tors Use a product such as electric motor cleaning spray to flush dirt out of the motors After cleaning lubricate the bushings at each end of the motors with a drop of light weight electric motor oil Shocks Keep the oil level in the shocks full Use only 100 pure silicone shock oil to prolong the life of the seals If you are experiencing leakage around the top of the shock inspect the bladder in th...

Page 27: ...ent what you wish to be the servo s maximum travel the Steering Percentage or Braking Percentage functions will not override the End Point settings Steering and Throttle Sub Trim The Sub Trim function is used to precisely set the neutral point of the steering or throttle servo in the event that simply setting the trim knob to zero does not completely center the servo When selected Sub Trim allows ...

Page 28: ...en four times repeatedly 4 Press SET once The status LED will blink green once repeatedly 5 Press MENU once The status LED will blink green twice repeatedly 6 Press SET The memory is now selected to be deleted Press SET to delete the model Press and hold MENU to return to driving mode Failsafe Your Traxxas radio system is equipped with a built in failsafe function that returns the throttle to its ...

Page 29: ... to desired endpoint and press set to save To reset max throw Let go of controls and press SET The menu tree below shows how to navigate through the TQi transmitter s various settings and functions Press and hold MENU to enter the menu tree and use the following commands to navigate through the menu and select options MENU When you enter a menu you always start at the top Press MENU to move down t...

Page 30: ... LED blinks Press SET red LED blinks x3 Press MENU twice red LED blinks x3 Turn steering wheel to desired max left and right travel x8 Press SET to save each position Turn steering wheel to test settings IF END POINTS ARE OK Press hold MENU returns to driving mode IF END POINTS NEED TO BE CHANGED Press SET and repeat steps 6 8 To reset the END POINTS of STEERING servo to defaults Press hold MENU g...

Page 31: ...ing of your Traxxas model with stunning visuals and absolute precision Install Traxxas Link telemetry sensors on the model and Traxxas Link displays real time data such as speed RPM temperature and battery voltage Intuitive iPhone and iPod touch interface Traxxas Link makes it easy to learn understand and access powerful tuning options Control Drive Effects settings such as steering and throttle s...

Page 32: ...1100 Klein Road Plano Texas 75074 1 888 TRAXXAS 120529 KC1431 R04 owners manual MODEL 3903 ...

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