Instruction Manual for BlackZon Smyter MT Turbo 1/12 RTR 4WD Brushless Monster Truck

1. Introduction

Welcome to the world of high-performance remote control vehicles with the BlackZon Smyter MT Turbo. This 1/12 scale Ready-to-Run (RTR) 4WD Brushless Monster Truck is engineered for durability, speed, and off-road capability. It features a powerful brushless motor system, robust 4WD shaft drivetrain, and independent double wishbone suspension, making it suitable for various terrains and driving styles.

Key Features:

• 4WD shaft drive Monster Truck for superior traction.
• 3S-capable Brushless System for enhanced power and speed.
• Adjustable Oil-Filled Coilover Shocks for improved handling over rough terrain.
• 4-Gear Steel Differentials Front & Rear for robust power distribution.
• Metal Driveshafts & Hex Hubs Front & Rear for increased durability.
• Independent double wishbone suspension for stable performance.
• Splashproof Electronics for protection against elements.
• 2.4GHz Radio with 2 in 1 ESC/Receiver for reliable control.
• Li-Po 7.4V 1600mAh Battery w/ T-Plug included.

Figure 1.1: The BlackZon Smyter MT Turbo 1/12 RTR 4WD Brushless Monster Truck, showcasing its robust design and vibrant green and black color scheme.

2. Safety Guidelines

Operating remote control vehicles requires caution to prevent injury or damage. Please read and adhere to the following safety guidelines:

• Adult Supervision: This product is recommended for ages 3 months and up, but adult supervision is highly recommended, especially for younger users, due to the speed and power of the vehicle.
• Operating Environment: Operate the vehicle in open, clear areas away from people, pets, and obstacles. Avoid public roads, crowded areas, and water bodies (unless specifically designed for water use, which this model is not).
• Battery Safety:
  • Always use the recommended Li-Po battery and charger.
  • Never overcharge or over-discharge Li-Po batteries.
  • Do not leave charging batteries unattended.
  • Store batteries in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight and flammable materials.
  • If the battery becomes swollen, punctured, or damaged, discontinue use immediately and dispose of it properly.
• Moving Parts: Keep fingers, hair, and loose clothing away from rotating wheels and drivetrain components to prevent entanglement or injury.
• Heat: The motor and electronic speed controller (ESC) can become hot during operation. Avoid touching them immediately after use.
• Chemicals: Keep batteries and electronic components away from children and pets. Do not ingest any parts or chemicals.
• Maintenance: Perform regular maintenance as described in this manual to ensure safe and optimal performance.

3. What's in the Box

Upon opening the package, please verify that all components are present and in good condition.

• BlackZon Smyter MT Turbo 1/12 RTR 4WD Brushless Monster Truck (fully assembled)
• 2.4GHz Radio Transmitter
• Li-Po 7.4V 1600mAh Battery with T-Plug
• Battery Charger (specific type not detailed, typically included with RTR kits)
• Instruction Manual (this document)

Required to Complete (Not Included):

• 3 x AA Batteries for the transmitter (HPI Recommends #101939 Plazma AA Batteries or equivalent)

4. Component Overview

Familiarize yourself with the main components of your BlackZon Smyter MT Turbo and its remote control.

4.1. Vehicle Components

Figure 4.1: Side view of the BlackZon Smyter MT Turbo, highlighting its ground clearance and large tires.

Figure 4.2: Top-down view of the BlackZon Smyter MT Turbo chassis with the body removed, showing the internal electronics, motor, and drivetrain components.

• Brushless Motor: Provides high power and efficiency.
• Electronic Speed Controller (ESC) / Receiver Unit: Controls motor speed and receives signals from the transmitter. This is a 2-in-1 unit.
• Steering Servo: Controls the direction of the front wheels.
• Battery Compartment: Located on the chassis, designed to securely hold the Li-Po battery.
• Oil-Filled Shocks: Provide damping for suspension, improving stability over bumps.
• Driveshafts & Differentials: Transmit power to all four wheels.
• Tires: Directional tractor tires for optimal grip on various surfaces.

4.2. Transmitter Components

Figure 4.3: Front view of the 2.4GHz radio transmitter, showing the steering wheel and trigger.

Figure 4.4: Top view of the 2.4GHz radio transmitter, showing the various adjustment dials and power switch.

• Steering Wheel: Controls the left and right steering of the vehicle.
• Throttle Trigger: Pull to accelerate forward, push to brake/reverse.
• Power Switch: Turns the transmitter on/off.
• Steering Trim Dial: Adjusts the neutral steering position if the vehicle pulls to one side.
• Throttle Trim Dial: Adjusts the neutral throttle position.
• Dual Rate (D/R) Dial: Adjusts the maximum steering angle.
• Battery Compartment: Holds 3 AA batteries.

5. Initial Setup

Before your first drive, follow these steps to prepare your BlackZon Smyter MT Turbo.

5.1. Charging the Vehicle Battery

1. Connect the included battery charger to a suitable power outlet.
2. Connect the Li-Po 7.4V 1600mAh battery to the charger. Ensure the T-Plug connection is secure.
3. Observe the charger's indicator lights (refer to charger manual if provided) to confirm charging status.
4. Once charging is complete (indicator light changes or turns off), disconnect the battery from the charger.
5. Important: Never leave charging batteries unattended. Do not overcharge.

5.2. Installing Transmitter Batteries

1. Locate the battery compartment on the bottom of the transmitter.
2. Slide open the battery compartment cover.
3. Insert 3 AA batteries, ensuring correct polarity (+/-) as indicated inside the compartment.
4. Close the battery compartment cover securely.

5.3. Installing Vehicle Battery

1. Remove the body clips and carefully lift the truck body off the chassis.
2. Locate the battery compartment on the chassis.
3. Place the charged Li-Po battery into the compartment.
4. Connect the battery's T-Plug to the corresponding T-Plug connector on the ESC/Receiver unit. Ensure a firm connection.
5. Secure the battery in place using any straps or clips provided.
6. Re-attach the truck body, securing it with the body clips.

5.4. Binding the Transmitter and Receiver

Your truck and transmitter should be pre-bound from the factory. If they lose connection or you are using a new transmitter/receiver, follow these steps to re-bind:

1. Ensure both the transmitter and vehicle are turned OFF.
2. Turn ON the transmitter.
3. Turn ON the vehicle's power switch (on the ESC/Receiver unit).
4. The LED on the ESC/Receiver unit should indicate a successful connection (e.g., solid green light). If it blinks, refer to the ESC/Receiver manual for specific binding instructions, which usually involves pressing a bind button on the receiver while powering on.
5. Test steering and throttle response to confirm successful binding.

6. Operating Instructions

Once setup is complete, you are ready to operate your BlackZon Smyter MT Turbo.

6.1. Starting the Vehicle

1. Place the vehicle on a flat, clear surface.
2. Turn ON the transmitter first.
3. Turn ON the vehicle's power switch. The ESC/Receiver LED should illuminate, indicating it's ready.

6.2. Driving Controls

• Forward: Pull the throttle trigger towards the grip.
• Brake: Push the throttle trigger away from the grip (from neutral position).
• Reverse: After braking, push the throttle trigger away from the grip again to engage reverse.
• Steering: Rotate the steering wheel clockwise to turn right, counter-clockwise to turn left.

6.3. Adjusting Trim and Dual Rate

• Steering Trim: If the vehicle does not drive straight when the steering wheel is centered, adjust the Steering Trim dial on the transmitter until it tracks straight.
• Throttle Trim: If the vehicle moves slightly forward or backward when the throttle trigger is at neutral, adjust the Throttle Trim dial until it remains stationary.
• Dual Rate (D/R): This dial controls the maximum steering angle. Turn it down for less sensitive steering (good for high speeds or beginners) and up for more sensitive steering (for tighter turns).

6.4. Ending Operation

1. Turn OFF the vehicle's power switch first.
2. Turn OFF the transmitter.
3. Disconnect the battery from the vehicle and remove it for storage or charging.
4. Allow the motor and ESC to cool down before handling or storing.

7. Maintenance

Regular maintenance will extend the lifespan and performance of your BlackZon Smyter MT Turbo.

• Cleaning: After each use, especially in dusty or dirty conditions, clean the vehicle. Use a soft brush or compressed air to remove dirt and debris from the chassis, suspension, and drivetrain. Avoid using water directly on electronics.
• Inspection: Regularly inspect for loose screws, damaged parts (e.g., bent suspension arms, cracked chassis, worn tires), and proper functioning of all moving parts.
• Drivetrain: Check the steel spur gear and differential gears for wear. Ensure metal driveshafts and hex hubs are secure.
• Shocks: Check oil-filled shocks for leaks and proper damping. Refill or replace shock oil as needed.
• Bearings: The vehicle features a complete set of ball bearings. Periodically check them for smooth operation and clean/lubricate if necessary.
• Battery Storage: Store Li-Po batteries at a "storage charge" level (typically 3.8V per cell) if not used for extended periods.
• Lubrication: Apply appropriate RC-specific lubricant to moving metal parts as needed, avoiding electronics.

8. Troubleshooting

If you encounter issues with your BlackZon Smyter MT Turbo, refer to the table below for common problems and solutions.

9. Specifications

10. Warranty and Support

For warranty information, technical support, or replacement parts, please contact BlackZon customer service or your authorized dealer. Keep your purchase receipt as proof of purchase.

While specific warranty details are not provided in this manual, most RC products come with a limited warranty covering manufacturing defects. Damage due to misuse, accidents, or unauthorized modifications is typically not covered.

Consider purchasing extended protection plans if available, such as those offered by retailers, to cover accidental damage or extended periods of use.