Slash
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17
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 (2400mAh and above) 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.
• When using the supplied optional pinions 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.
• The Titan 12T motor will benefit from a short break in period to ensure optimum
performance and longer motor life. For the first battery pack, use the stock
installed pinion gear and drive smoothly on a flat, paved surface. Accelerate
smoothly (avoiding full throttle starts), with most of the driving being done
at higher speeds. This will help insure that the motor provides the best
performance and longest life.
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 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.
• Vary your speed. The Titan12T is a fan cooled motor, therefore moderate to top-
speed running helps reduce motor temperatures.
• Lower your gear ratio. Installing a smaller pinion gear will lower your gear ratio,
causing less power draw from the motor.
• Maintain your model. Do not allow dirt or damaged parts to cause binding in the
drivetrain. Keep the motor clean and the motor bushings lightly lubricated.
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 Slash 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 Slash through puddles, wet grass,
snow, and through other wet conditions. Though highly water resistant, the Slash
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 (note: the XL-5 is not LiPo compatible).
• The Traxxas TQ 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.
• Even casual water contact can reduce the life of your motor. Special care must
be taken to modify your gearing and/or your driving style in wet conditions to
extend the life of the motor (details follow).
