Team Associated MT12 Monster Van RTR LiPo Combo Instruction Manual

1. Introduction and Safety Guidelines

This manual provides essential information for the safe and effective operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting of your Team Associated MT12 Monster Van RTR LiPo Combo. Please read this manual thoroughly before operating your vehicle.

1.1 Product Overview

The Team Associated MT12 Monster Van is a Ready-To-Run (RTR) remote control monster truck equipped with Reedy Power electronics. It features a retro-styled van body, chrome wheels, and chevron-style tires, designed for both scale appearance and robust performance. The vehicle is built on a steel ladder frame chassis with a 4-link suspension system, threaded oil-filled shocks, and soft rubber tires for optimal grip and handling over various terrains.

Figure 1.1: The Team Associated MT12 Monster Van RTR LiPo Combo, showcasing its retro van body and large monster truck tires.

1.2 What's Included

Your MT12 Monster Van RTR LiPo Combo package includes:

• Team Associated MT12 Monster Van (assembled)
• 2.4GHz XP transmitter and receiver
• Reedy Power speed control with high-current T-plug connector
• Reedy brushed 380 motor
• 850mAh Li-Ion 7.4V 2-cell battery
• Battery charger

1.3 Safety Precautions

Always observe the following safety guidelines to prevent injury or damage:

• Operate the vehicle in open areas away from people, pets, and obstacles.
• Do not operate near public roads or in crowded areas.
• Keep hands, hair, and loose clothing away from moving parts.
• Always disconnect the battery when not in use and during maintenance.
• Use only the specified battery and charger.
• Adult supervision is recommended for users under 14 years of age.

2. Setup

Before your first drive, follow these steps to prepare your MT12 Monster Van.

2.1 Battery Charging and Installation

1. Connect the included 850mAh Li-Ion 7.4V 2-cell battery to the charger.
2. Plug the charger into a suitable power outlet. Refer to the charger's instructions for charging indicators and times.
3. Once fully charged, disconnect the battery from the charger.
4. Locate the battery compartment on the vehicle's chassis.
5. Securely install the charged battery into the compartment, ensuring the hook-and-loop strap holds it firmly in place.
6. Connect the battery to the vehicle's speed control (ESC) using the T-plug connector.

2.2 Transmitter Setup

1. Install 4 AA batteries (not included) into the 2.4GHz XP transmitter, observing correct polarity.
2. Turn on the transmitter. The indicator light should illuminate.
3. Turn on the vehicle's power switch. The vehicle's receiver light should also illuminate, indicating a successful connection.
4. Test steering and throttle controls. If the vehicle does not respond, ensure both the transmitter and vehicle are powered on and properly bound (refer to transmitter manual for binding procedure if necessary).

Figure 2.1: Top-down view of the MT12 Monster Van chassis, showing the layout of the battery, motor, speed control, and receiver.

3. Operating Instructions

Familiarize yourself with the controls before driving at full speed.

3.1 Basic Controls

• Steering Wheel: Turn left or right to control the vehicle's direction.
• Throttle Trigger: Pull to accelerate forward, push to brake or reverse.
• Trim Dials: Adjust steering and throttle trim to ensure the vehicle drives straight and stops when the trigger is neutral.

3.2 Driving Tips

• Start slowly to get a feel for the controls.
• Practice steering and throttle control in an open, flat area.
• Avoid driving through deep water, mud, or sand, as this can damage electronics.
• Be mindful of battery life. Performance will decrease as the battery drains.

4. Maintenance

Regular maintenance will extend the life and performance of your MT12 Monster Van.

4.1 Cleaning

• After each use, clean dirt and debris from the chassis, suspension, and drivetrain using a soft brush or compressed air.
• Avoid using water or harsh chemicals directly on electronics.

4.2 Inspection and Lubrication

• Regularly inspect all screws, nuts, and bolts for tightness.
• Check the oil-filled shocks for leaks and proper damping. Refill with shock oil as needed.
• Inspect gears for wear or damage. Apply a small amount of appropriate grease to moving gears if necessary.
• Ensure all 16 metal-shield ball bearings spin freely. Clean or replace if gritty.

Figure 4.1: Close-up view of an oil-filled shock absorber with threaded body, part of the MT12's suspension system.

Figure 4.2: View of the Reedy brushed 380 motor and the compact 3-gear transmission, showing the pinion and spur gears.

5. Troubleshooting

This section addresses common issues you might encounter.

6. Specifications

Key technical specifications for the Team Associated MT12 Monster Van RTR LiPo Combo:

• Model Number: AS40008C
• Product Dimensions: 14.96 x 10.94 x 5.12 inches
• Item Weight: 5.9 pounds
• Motor: Reedy brushed 380 motor
• Battery: 850mAh Li-Ion 7.4V 2-cell (included)
• Radio System: 2.4GHz XP transmitter and receiver
• Chassis: Steel C-channel frame rails
• Suspension: 4-link, oil-filled shocks with threaded bodies
• Drivetrain: Compact 3-gear transmission, plastic low-friction slider-type drive shafts, metal front CVA and rear solid axle shafts
• Bearings: 16-piece metal-shield ball bearing set

7. Warranty Information

For detailed warranty information regarding your Team Associated MT12 Monster Van, please refer to the warranty card included in your product packaging or visit the official Team Associated website. Warranty terms and conditions may vary by region and purchase location.

8. Customer Support

Should you require further assistance, technical support, or replacement parts, please contact Team Associated customer service through their official website or the contact information provided in your product documentation. Always have your model number (AS40008C) and purchase details ready when contacting support.

Thank you for choosing Team Associated.