Traxxas TRX-4 Scale and Trail Crawler

Introduction

Thank you for purchasing the all-new Traxxas TRX-4 Scale and Trail Crawler. The TRX-4 features a powerful Titan® 21T 550 motor, waterproof electronics, and a smooth XL-5 HV 3s LiPo-capable electronic speed control. Its portal axles provide greater ground clearance, while the rigid steel frame eliminates chassis flex. The Canyon Trail 1.9 tires feature tuned foam inserts for superior grip and scale realism. Traxxas builds models to be rugged, powerful, and ready for all-day driving fun.

This manual contains instructions for operating and maintaining your model. Traxxas models are about experiencing total performance and satisfaction, backed by professional factory support.

Please read this entire manual before operating your model to unlock its full performance potential. Even experienced R/C enthusiasts should follow these procedures.

Traxxas Support: For assistance, contact Traxxas Technical Support toll-free at 1-888-TRAXXAS (1-888-872-9927) or visit Traxxas.com. Support is available 7 days a week from 8:30 am to 9:00 pm Central Time. Email support@Traxxas.com.

Registering Your Model: Register your product online at Traxxas.com/register within 10 days of purchase to help Traxxas serve you better.

FCC Compliance: This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to two conditions: it may not cause harmful interference, and it must accept any interference received, including interference that may cause undesired operation. Modifications not expressly approved by the party responsible for compliance could void the user's authority to operate the equipment.

Canada, Industry Canada (IC): This Class B digital apparatus complies with Canadian ICES-003 and RSS-210. Operation is subject to two conditions: it may not cause interference, and it must accept any interference, including interference that may cause undesired operation.

Radio Frequency (RF) Exposure Statement: Equipment complies with FCC and Industry Canada RF exposure limits for an uncontrolled environment. Installation and operation require a minimum distance of 20 cm between the radiator and your body or bystanders. Must not be co-located or operating in conjunction with any other antenna or transmitter. Operation Frequency: 2414~2453 MHz. Maximum Radio Frequency Power: Maximum Peak Power 9.7 dBm.

Before You Proceed

[Warning Icon] Carefully read and follow all instructions in this manual and any accompanying materials to prevent serious damage to your model. Failure to follow these instructions will be considered abuse and/or neglect.

[Helpful Hint Icon] Throughout this manual, warnings and helpful hints are identified by icons. Be sure to read them!

Warnings, Helpful Hints, & Cross-References:

• [Warning Icon]: An important warning about personal safety or avoiding damage to your model and related components.
• [Helpful Hint Icon]: Special advice from Traxxas to make things easier and more fun.
• [Cross-Reference Icon]: Refers you to a page with a related topic.

Traxxas Contact Information:

Traxxas, 6250 Traxxas Way, McKinney, Texas 75070. Phone: 972-549-3000. Toll-free: 1-888-TRAXXAS. Internet: Traxxas.com. E-mail: support@Traxxas.com.

©2025 Traxxas. All rights reserved. Traxxas, Ready-To-Drive, TQi, Titan, TRX-4, and XL-5 HV are trademarks or registered trademarks of Traxxas. Land Rover and the Land Rover Logo are trademarks owned and licensed by Jaguar Land Rover Limited. Officially Licensed Product.

Safety Precautions

All instructions and precautions should be strictly followed for safe operation. This model is not intended for use by children under 14 years of age without adult supervision. No previous experience is required.

Important Points to Remember:

• Operate your model sensibly and with care for exciting, safe, and fun driving. Failure to do so may result in property damage and serious injury.
• Do not operate the model on public roads or congested areas where it can conflict with pedestrian or vehicular traffic.
• Never operate the model in crowds of people, as it could cause injury upon collision.
• Radio interference from many sources can cause momentary losses of control. Always allow a safety margin in all directions around the model to prevent collisions.
• The motor, battery, and speed control can become hot during use; avoid touching them until they cool.
• Do not operate the model at night or anytime your line of sight is obstructed.
• Use good common sense at all times.

Speed Control Precautions: The electronic speed control (ESC) is a powerful device. Follow these precautions:

• Always disconnect the battery from the speed control when not in use.
• Always insulate exposed wiring with heat shrink tubing to prevent short circuits.
• Use 6-7 NiMH cells or 2-3 LiPo cells (2s/3s). Adhere to the XL-5 HV voltage limitations (8.4V NiMH, 11.1V 3s LiPo).
• Turn on the transmitter first before switching on the speed control to prevent runaways.
• Ensure adequate airflow for cooling; the ESC and motor can become extremely hot.
• Use factory-installed connectors. Improper wiring can cause fire or damage to the ESC.
• The ESC is not protected against reverse polarity voltage.
• External Schottky diodes are not compatible with reversing speed controls and will damage the ESC.

Recycling Traxxas iD® NiMH Batteries: Traxxas encourages recycling of iD® NiMH batteries. Look for the RBRC icon and visit www.call2recycle.org.

LiPo Battery Safety

WARNING! CAUTION! DANGER! FIRE HAZARD!

LiPo batteries have the potential for fire, explosion, serious injury, and property damage if not handled per instructions. LiPo batteries are for advanced users educated on the risks. Traxxas does not recommend use by anyone under 18 without knowledgeable adult supervision.

Important Warnings for Lithium Polymer (LiPo) batteries:

• Your model can use LiPo batteries. LiPo batteries have a minimum safe discharge voltage threshold. The ESC has built-in Low-Voltage Detection (LVD) that alerts the driver when this threshold is reached. It is the driver's responsibility to stop immediately to prevent over-discharge.
• LVD is part of a comprehensive plan for safe LiPo use. Follow all instructions for safe charging, use, and storage. Consult your local hobby dealer or battery manufacturer if you have questions.
• ONLY use a Traxxas iD charger for Traxxas iD batteries. ONLY use a Lithium Polymer (LiPo) balance charger with a balance adapter port for LiPo batteries. Never use NiMH or NiCad chargers/modes for LiPo batteries, as this will damage them and may cause fire or injury.
• NEVER charge LiPo battery packs in series or parallel.
• ALWAYS inspect LiPo batteries carefully before charging for any damage (loose leads, damaged insulation, swelling, etc.). If damaged, do not charge or use; follow disposal instructions.
• DO NOT store or charge LiPo batteries with or around other batteries.
• Store and transport battery packs in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight. Do not exceed 140°F (60°C) storage temperature.
• DO NOT disassemble LiPo batteries or cells.
• DO NOT attempt to build your own LiPo battery pack.

Charging and handling precautions for all battery types:

• ALWAYS confirm charger settings match the battery type, specification, and configuration before charging. DO NOT exceed the maximum recommended charge rate.
• DO NOT attempt to charge batteries with an internal charge circuit or protection circuit, batteries that have been altered, or batteries with missing/unreadable labels.
• ALWAYS use a Traxxas iD charger for Traxxas iD batteries.
• DO NOT let exposed battery contacts or wires touch each other, as this will cause a short circuit and fire risk.
• Place batteries in a fire-retardant container on a nonflammable surface (like concrete) while charging or discharging.
• DO NOT charge batteries inside an automobile or while driving in an automobile.
• NEVER charge batteries on wood, cloth, carpet, or other flammable material.
• ALWAYS charge batteries in a well-ventilated area.
• REMOVE flammable items and combustible materials from the charging area.
• DO NOT leave the charger and battery unattended while charging, discharging, or anytime the charger is ON with a battery connected. If a malfunction or emergency occurs, unplug the charger and disconnect the battery.
• DO NOT operate the charger in a cluttered space or place objects on top of the charger or battery.
• If any battery or cell is damaged, DO NOT charge, discharge, or use it.
• Keep a Class D fire extinguisher nearby.
• DO NOT disassemble, crush, short circuit, or expose batteries to flame or other ignition sources. Toxic materials could be released. If contact occurs, flush with water.
• If a battery gets hot to the touch during charging (>110°F / 43°C), immediately disconnect and discontinue charging.
• Allow battery packs to cool between runs before charging.
• ALWAYS unplug the charger and disconnect the battery when not in use.
• ALWAYS unplug the battery from the ESC when the model is not in use or is being stored/transported.
• DO NOT disassemble the charger.
• REMOVE the battery from your model or device before charging.
• DO NOT expose the charger to water or moisture.
• ALWAYS store battery packs safely out of the reach of children or pets. Children should always have adult supervision when charging and handling batteries.
• Nickel-Metal Hydride (NiMH) batteries must be recycled or disposed of properly.
• Always proceed with caution and use good common sense.

Tools, Supplies, and Required Equipment

Your model comes with specialty metric tools. You will need to purchase other items separately.

Supplied Tools and Equipment:

• 2.0mm "T" wrench
• 2.5mm "L" wrench
• 1.5mm "L" wrench
• 4-way wrench

Required Equipment (not included):

• USB-C 4-amp NiMH/LiPo Balance Charger (part #2985) or EZ-Peak™ Plus (part #2970)
• 6 or 7-cell NiMH battery pack, or 2s or 3s LiPo battery pack, with Traxxas High-Current connector*
• 4 AA alkaline batteries for the transmitter

Recommended Equipment:

• Safety glasses
• Traxxas Ultra Premium Tire Glue, Part #6468 (CA glue)
• Hobby knife
• Side cutters and/or needle nose pliers
• Phillips screwdriver
• Soldering iron

*Battery and charger style are subject to change and may vary from images.

Anatomy of the TRX-4

Chassis Top View Components:

• Battery Hold-Down
• Traxxas High-Current Connector
• Electronic Speed Control
• Battery Compartment
• Rear Clipless Body Mount
• Transmission Shifting Servo
• Transmission
• Slipper Clutch
• Motor
• Front Clipless Body Mount
• Front Bumper
• Rear Bumper
• Chassis Rail
• Antenna Mount
• Rock Slider
• Receiver Box
• Front T-Lock Servo
• LED Light Pipe
• Rear T-Lock Servo
• Steering Servo

Chassis Bottom View Components:

• Rear Axle
• Rear Portal Housing
• Rear Upper Link
• Front Upper Link
• Front Portal Housing
• Front Axle
• Chassis Rail
• Shock
• Rear Driveshaft
• Skidplate
• Front T-Lock Cable
• Differential Cover
• Rear Lower Link
• Rear T-Lock Cable
• Floor Pan
• Front Driveshaft
• Front Lower Link
• Caster Block

Quick Start: Getting Up to Speed

Follow these steps to get your model running quickly. Refer to the full manual for complete instructions.

1. Read the safety precautions on page 4.
2. Install batteries in the transmitter (4 AA alkaline batteries required, not included).
3. Charge the battery pack (battery and charger not included). Never use a NiMH or NiCad charger for LiPo batteries.
4. Install the charged battery pack in the model.
5. Turn on the radio system (transmitter first, then the model).
6. Check servo operation (see page 16).
7. Range test the radio system (see page 16).
8. Apply other decals if desired (see page 11).
9. Drive your model (see page 21 for driving tips).
10. Maintain your model (see page 30 for maintenance steps).

Traxxas TQi Radio System

Your model includes the TQi 2.4GHz transmitter with Traxxas Link™ Model Memory. It offers easy operation for new users and advanced tuning features for experienced users. The system uses five channels for throttle, steering, front and rear T-Lock differentials, and the 2-speed transmission.

Radio and Power System Terminology:

• BEC (Battery Eliminator Circuit): Powers the receiver and servos from the main battery pack.
• Current: Measure of power flow, usually in amps.
• ESC (Electronic Speed Control): Controls the motor; the XL-5 HV uses MOSFETs for precise throttle control.
• Frequency band: The radio frequency used; this model uses 2.4GHz spread spectrum.
• LiPo: Lithium Polymer batteries, high-performance, require special care.
• mAh: Milliamp hour, a measure of battery capacity.
• Neutral position: The center position of servos when controls are at neutral.
• NiCad: Nickel-cadmium batteries.
• NiMH: Nickel-metal hydride batteries, offer high capacity and resistance to memory effect.
• Receiver: Unit in the model that receives signals from the transmitter.
• Resistance: Opposition to electrical current flow, converting energy to heat.
• Servo: Small motor unit that operates steering or other mechanisms.
• Transmitter: Hand-held radio unit sending throttle and steering instructions.
• Trim: Fine-tuning adjustment of servo neutral position.
• Thermal Shutdown Protection: ESC automatically shuts down if it overheats.
• 2-channel radio system: Transmitter, receiver, and servos for throttle and steering.
• 2.4GHz Spread Spectrum: Advanced R/C technology offering superior interference resistance.
• Voltage: Electrical potential difference; the "pressure" forcing current.
• 550 and 540: Motor size designations; 550 motors have longer armatures.

Applying Decals: Factory-applied decals are pre-applied. Additional decals are die-cut for easy removal and application. Smooth decals down gradually to prevent air bubbles.

XL-5 HV Wiring Diagram: [Description: A diagram showing the XL-5 HV ESC connected to the motor, receiver (Channels 1, 2, 3, 4, 5), and battery via the Traxxas High-Current Connector.]

Model Wiring Diagram: [Description: A diagram illustrating the connections between the TQi Transmitter (Steering Wheel, Throttle Trigger, Multi-Function Knob, T-Lock Switch, Shift Switch, Set Button, Link Button) and the Receiver (Channels 1-5), ESC, Steering Servo, Shift Servo, Front T-Lock Servo, Rear T-Lock Servo, and Motor.]

Installing Transmitter Batteries:

• The TQi transmitter requires 4 AA batteries.
• Remove the battery compartment door by pressing the tab and sliding it open.
• Install batteries with correct orientation.
• Reinstall the door.
• Turn on the transmitter; a solid green light indicates proper operation. A flashing red light may indicate weak or incorrectly installed batteries.
• Use new alkaline AA batteries; rechargeable AA cells may not provide sufficient voltage.

Selecting Batteries and a Charger:

• Your model requires a battery and charger (not included).
• The ESC is compatible with LiPo and NiMH batteries. A NiMH or 2s/3s LiPo battery with a Traxxas High-Current Connector is required.
• Traxxas Power Cell iD batteries are recommended for maximum performance and safer charging.
• WARNING: FIRE HAZARD! Users of LiPo batteries must read the warnings on page 4. Use a LiPo balance charger for LiPo batteries.
• Traxxas recommends genuine Traxxas EZ-Peak® iD chargers for safer charging and optimal battery life.

Battery Options:

Charger Compatibility:

Battery iD: Traxxas iD batteries are automatically recognized by Traxxas chargers for optimized, safe charging.

Installing the Body: The TRX-4 uses an innovative clipless latching system. To remove, reach beneath inner fenders and pull latches outward, then push up to disengage. Lift the body straight up. To reinstall, position the body and press down at latch locations until they snap into place. Periodically clean latches and fender slots for smooth operation.

Installing the Battery Pack:

• WARNING: Do not pinch battery wires or connector between body and chassis.
• Install the battery pack with wires facing the rear. Swing the battery hold down towards the chassis and snap it into the front retainer. The hold down can be rotated for different battery heights.

The Traxxas High-Current Connector: Engineered for positive current flow with minimal resistance, ensuring maximum power delivery from the battery.

Radio System Controls:

• Steering Wheel: Controls steering.
• Throttle Trigger: Controls forward, brake, and reverse.
• Multi-Function Knob: Programmable for various functions (default: Cruise Control).
• Shift Switch (Channel 3): Selects High/Low gear.
• T-Lock Switch (Channel 4): Locks/unlocks front and rear differentials.

Radio System Rules:

• Always turn your transmitter on first and off last to prevent stray signals and runaways.
• Ensure the transmitter and receiver bind within 20 seconds of powering on.
• Stop immediately at the first sign of weak batteries (flashing red transmitter light).

Radio System Basic Adjustments:

• Steering Trim: Turn the knob to precisely set the steering neutral point for straight-line driving.
• Multi-Function Knob: Programmable for functions like Cruise Control.

Automatic Fail-Safe: In case of signal loss, the throttle returns to neutral and steering holds its last position.

Range-Testing the Radio System: Before each run, walk away with the transmitter to ensure the model responds correctly at your intended operating distance. Keep the model within 200 feet for best visibility and control.

TQi Binding Instructions: Transmitter and receiver must be electronically bound. This is done at the factory. To re-bind: 1. Hold SET on transmitter and turn on. 2. Hold LINK on receiver and turn on ESC. 3. Solid green LEDs on both indicate successful binding.

Cruise Control: Accelerate to desired speed, press SET to lock. Adjust speed with the Multi-Function knob. Press brakes to disengage.

Setting Up the Antenna: The antenna wire should be fully inserted into the antenna tube, with the white tip at the top. Secure the tube in the antenna mount with the set screw. Do not kink or cut the antenna wire or tip.

Adjusting the Electronic Speed Control

XL-5 HV Specifications:

• Input Voltage: 6-7 cells NiMH; 2s/3s LiPo
• Motor Limit: 12-turns (550 size) with 2s LiPo; 21-turns (550 Size) with 3s LiPo
• Continuous Current: 18A
• BEC Voltage: 6.0 VDC
• BEC Current: 1A
• Thermal Protection: Thermal Shutdown
• Single Button Setup: Yes
• Low-Voltage Detection: Yes (User Enabled)

XL-5 HV Battery Settings (Low-Voltage Detection):

• LVD monitors battery voltage and limits power to 50% throttle when LiPo voltage nears the minimum threshold, shutting down motor output if it falls below. The ESC LED blinks red slowly in low-voltage shutdown.
• Verify LVD is ACTIVATED (Factory Default): Turn on transmitter, connect battery, press EZ-Set button. Solid green LED indicates LVD is active.
• To Activate LVD (if disabled): With ESC LED red, press and hold EZ-Set for ten seconds until motor beeps twice and LED turns green.
• To Disable LVD (for NiMH batteries): With ESC LED green, press and hold EZ-Set for ten seconds until motor beeps three times and LED turns red.

XL-5 HV Setup Programming (Calibrating ESC and Transmitter):

1. Disconnect one motor wire.
2. Connect a fully charged battery pack and turn on the transmitter (throttle at neutral).
3. Press and hold the EZ-Set button (LED turns green, then red). Release when LED blinks RED ONCE.
4. Pull throttle trigger to full throttle and hold.
5. When LED blinks RED TWICE, push throttle trigger to full reverse and hold.
6. When LED blinks GREEN ONCE, programming is complete. LED shines green (LVD active) or red (LVD disabled).
7. To place ESC in NiMH mode and clear error codes: continue holding reverse, press and hold ESC button for 10 seconds until ESC beeps.

XL-5 HV Operation:

• Power On: Press and release EZ-Set button (LED solid green).
• Forward: Apply forward throttle (LED off until full throttle, then solid green).
• Brake: Move trigger forward (LED off until full brake, then solid green).
• Reverse: Move trigger forward again (LED off). LED solid green at full reverse.
• To Power Off: Press and hold EZ-Set for 1.5 seconds until LED turns off.
• Thermal Shutdown: ESC blinks red rapidly if overheating. Let it cool before continuing. Use low gear for climbing/crawling to prevent overheating.

XL-5 HV Profile Selection:

• Profile #1 (Sport Mode): 100% Forward, 100% Brakes, 100% Reverse.
• Profile #2 (Race Mode): 100% Forward, 100% Brakes, No Reverse.
• Profile #3 (Training Mode): 50% Forward, 100% Brakes, 50% Reverse (reduces power for beginners).
• Profile #4 (Trail Mode - Default): 100% Forward, 100% Brakes, 100% Reverse; Drag Brake at Neutral.
• Profile #5 (Crawl Mode): 100% Forward, Hill Hold Brakes at Neutral, Immediate Reverse.

To select a profile: With the transmitter on, press and hold the EZ-Set button until the LED blinks red the number of times corresponding to the desired profile (1-5). Release the button. The LED will then turn solid green (LVD active) or red (LVD disabled).

LED Codes:

• Solid Green: LVD Activated (LiPo setting).
• Solid Red: LVD Disabled (NiMH setting).
• Fast Blinking Red: Overtemp (Thermal Shutdown).
• Slow Blinking Red: Low-Voltage Protection (LiPo).
• Fast Blinking Red and Green: Overvoltage.
• Fast Blinking Green: No signal.

Driving Your Model

Driving Precautions:

• Allow the model to cool between runs.
• Do not operate with low batteries; stop immediately at the first sign of weak batteries.
• Do not drive at night, on public streets, or in large crowds.
• Drive primarily in low gear for maximum torque. High gear is for high-speed running; prolonged use in high gear can cause overheating.
• If the model gets stuck, do not continue to run the motor. Remove the obstruction.
• Use common sense; abusive driving will lead to poor performance and broken parts.
• Periodically check wheel nuts and screws for tightness due to vibrations.

Operating the High-Low Transmission: Use the red rocker switch on the transmitter. Low gear provides maximum torque for climbing and crawling. High gear is for higher speeds. Reduce speed before shifting from high to low gear for smoother operation.

Operating the T-Lock Differentials: Use the T-Lock switch. If the model is stuck with wheelspin, release throttle and stop the wheels before locking. Apply throttle slowly. Unlocked differentials offer maximum steering and tightest turning radius. Lock the front differential for enhanced climbing. Lock both differentials for maximum climbing ability. Locked differentials reduce high-speed handling and steering precision.

About Run Time: Run time is affected by battery capacity (mAh), battery condition, charger quality, and driving style. Higher mAh batteries and quality chargers generally provide longer run times.

Tips for Increasing Run Time:

• Use batteries with the highest mAh rating.
• Use a high-quality peak-detecting charger.
• Follow battery manufacturer's maintenance instructions.
• Keep the ESC cool with good airflow.
• Lower your gear ratio (smaller pinion gear) for less power draw.
• Maintain your model to prevent binding.

Running in Wet Conditions:

• The TRX-4 has water-resistant electronics, but is not submersible.
• Precautions: Water resistance requires additional maintenance to prevent corrosion. Do not run in wet conditions if unwilling to perform extra maintenance. Not all batteries are suitable for wet conditions; consult manufacturer. Do not use LiPo batteries in wet conditions. The transmitter is not water resistant. Avoid saltwater. Casual water contact can reduce motor life; use light throttle when the motor is wet. Do not submerge the motor. Do not gear by motor temperature in wet conditions.
• Before Running in Wet Conditions: Cover tire breather holes with tape. Confirm receiver box O-ring and cover are installed correctly. Confirm batteries are suitable for wet conditions. Use low gear in mud, deep puddles, snow, or other high-load situations.
• After Running in Wet Conditions: Remove batteries. Rinse off dirt with low-pressure water. Blow dry with compressed air (wear safety glasses). Remove wheels, spray bearings/drivetrain/fasteners with WD-40® or similar. Allow truck to dry; trapped water may drip for hours. Remove receiver box cover during storage to allow air to dry. Increase frequency of disassembly, inspection, and lubrication of portal gearboxes, differentials, transmission, and motor.

Tuning Adjustments

Suspension Tuning:

• Springs: Factory springs (0.45 front, 0.54 rear) provide good articulation. Lighter springs can be used with lighter bodies to increase traction and articulation.
• Ride Height Adjustment: Adjust sag by threading preload adjusters on shock bodies. Thread down to raise ride height, up to lower it. The front left adjuster may need more threading due to motor weight. If maximum preload is insufficient, install stiffer springs.

Shock Tuning:

• Shock Oil: 4 oil-filled aluminum shocks control suspension damping. Higher viscosity oil increases damping; lower viscosity reduces it. Factory fill is SAE-30W silicone oil. Only use 100% silicone oil.
• Replacing Shock Oil: Remove shocks, disassemble. Empty old oil. Compress shock, fill with new oil to top of shaft, add 2-3 drops. Slowly move piston to remove air. Ensure upper shock cap cavity is dry before screwing on.
• Shock Assembly: Insert shaft, lubricate shaft/O-rings/X-rings. Install O-ring, X-rings, spacer. Install lower cap. Thread rod end onto shaft. Fill with oil. Slowly thread upper cap. Reinstall spring and retainer.
• Important: Shocks are assembled at the factory with a 90mm center-to-center distance. Check this distance after disassembly. Never slide threads past X-ring seals to avoid leaks.

Transmission Tuning:

• Adjusting the Slipper Clutch: Protects motor and drivetrain. Should not slip during normal operation. Adjust using the locknut on the slipper shaft. Tighten nut until all four spring washers are flat, then tighten an additional 1/16 turn.

Wheels and Tires:

• Aftermarket tires/wheels may affect width and suspension geometry.
• Minimum wheel inner diameter must be 38mm to accommodate portal axles. Stub axles are 6mm; drilling may be required.
• Tire compound and tread pattern should suit the terrain. TRX-4's 1.9 Canyon Trail tires are optimized for all surfaces.

Motors and Gearing:

• The Titan™ 550 Motor is matched for efficiency and torque. Do not convert to traditional 540 size motors.
• Stock gearing: 45-tooth spur gear, 11-tooth pinion gear.
• Gearing Formulas:
• High Gear Final Ratio = (# Spur Teeth / # Pinion Teeth) x 6.32
• Low Gear Final Ratio = (# Spur Teeth / # Pinion Teeth) x 15.8
• Gearing Compatibility: Do not use a pinion gear larger than 12-tooth with the stock 45-tooth spur gear. Over-gearing can overheat and damage the motor/ESC.

Gearing Chart:

Adjusting Gear Mesh: Incorrect gear mesh can strip spur gears. Use the chart to identify screw positions (A-H) on the motor plate corresponding to pinion and spur gear sizes. Remove motor/plate, adjust screws, reinstall.

Motor Removal/Installation: Remove gear cover, then motor/motor plate assembly. Remove screws holding motor to plate. Installation is reverse.

Servo Steering System: Uses a single metal gear servo. Adjust drag link to 133.2mm and steering link to 77.3mm. With power on, adjust steering trim to 0. Connect links. Position servo horn perpendicular to vehicle centerline. Aftermarket servo horns must measure 22mm from linkage hole to mounting hole.

T-Lock Servo Installation: Factory-set. If reinstalling, reset servos to "diffs open" position. With power on, operate T-Lock switch to confirm operation, then place in "open" position. Install servo horns correctly for front (spring slot perpendicular to linkage) and rear (spring slot parallel to linkage) differentials.

Fitting Aftermarket Bodies: Rear shock tower can be installed in two locations and orientations for shock angle adjustment. An additional rear body mount crossmember is included.

Maintaining Your Model

Timely maintenance is crucial for top running condition.

Inspect the vehicle for damage or wear:

• Cracked, bent, or damaged parts.
• Check wheels and steering for binding.
• Check shock absorber operation.
• Check wiring for frayed wires or loose connections.
• Check mounting of receiver, servos, and speed control.
• Check tightness of wheel nuts.
• Check radio system operation and battery condition.
• Check for loose screws in chassis structure or suspension.
• Inspect gears for wear, broken teeth, or debris.
• Check slipper clutch tightness.

Other Periodic Maintenance:

• Slipper clutch pads: Replace if thickness is 0.35mm or less.
• Chassis: Keep clean; inspect for damage.
• Motor: Every 10-15 runs, remove, clean with electric motor cleaner spray, and lubricate bushings with light-weight electric motor oil. Wear eye protection.
• Shocks: Keep oil level full. Use 100% pure silicone shock oil. Rebuild shocks if leaking (kit #8262).
• Suspension: Inspect for bent rod ends, linkage rods, shock shafts, loose screws, or signs of stress. Replace as needed.
• Driveline: Inspect for wear on drive shafts and joints. Lubricate pins with light-weight machine oil; avoid excess oil to prevent dust buildup. Inspect spur gear for wear and pinion set screw tightness.

Storage: Blow off the model with compressed air or dust with a soft brush. Always disconnect and remove batteries from the model and transmitter when storing.

Questions or Technical Assistance: Call Traxxas at 1-888-TRAXXAS (1-888-872-9927) (U.S. residents only).

TQi Advanced Tuning Guide

The programmable Multi-Function knob on the TQi transmitter can control various functions (default: Cruise Control). Access programming via MENU and SET buttons.

Steering Sensitivity (Exponential): Controls how responsive steering is near neutral. Turning the knob clockwise decreases sensitivity (negative exponential), making steering less responsive near center. This can be helpful on low-traction surfaces or at high speed.

Throttle Sensitivity (Throttle Exponential): Works like steering sensitivity but applies to throttle. Only forward throttle is affected; brake/reverse remain linear.

Steering Percentage (Dual-Rate): Controls the amount of servo travel for steering. Turning the knob clockwise increases throw; counterclockwise reduces it. End points define maximum throw. Dual-Rate allows fine-tuning for specific tracks or surfaces.

Braking Percentage: Controls brake servo travel (electric models also use this function). Turning clockwise increases brake throw; counterclockwise reduces it.

Throttle Trim: Adjusts throttle neutral position to prevent unwanted brake drag or throttle application. Throttle Trim Seek Mode prevents accidental runaways.

Traxxas Stability Management (TSM): Helps maintain control in low-traction situations or rough terrain. TSM improves braking control and makes corrections without intruding on fun. The Multi-Function knob can be programmed to control TSM assistance level. Default setting is 12:00 (zero assistance). Turn clockwise to increase assistance, counterclockwise to decrease or turn off. TSM is deactivated in reverse. TSM must be off when adjusting steering trim.

Steering and Throttle End Points: Set the limit of servo travel independently for left/right steering and throttle/brake. This prevents binding. End point settings override Steering Percentage or Braking Percentage.

Steering and Throttle Sub-Trim: Precisely sets the servo neutral point if the trim knob alone is insufficient. Set Steering Trim to zero before using Sub-Trim for steering. Reset Throttle Trim to zero before using Sub-Trim for throttle.

Restoring Factory Defaults: Turn transmitter off. Hold MENU and SET, then turn transmitter on. Release buttons. Press MENU 6 times (LED blinks red 7 times). Press SET to clear settings. LED turns solid green.

Transmitter LED Codes:

• Solid Green: Normal Driving Mode, LVD Activated.
• Slow Red: Binding.
• Fast Green: Throttle Trim Seek Mode.
• Medium Red: Link Failure / Error.
• Fast Red: Low Battery Alarm.

Receiver LED Codes:

• Solid Green: Normal Driving Mode.
• Slow Red: Binding.
• Fast Red: Fail-Safe / Low Voltage Detect.

Setting Lock: Disable the Multi-Function knob to prevent accidental changes, useful when operating multiple vehicles.

Multiple Settings and the Multi-Function Knob: Settings are "overlaid." For example, assigning the knob to Steering Percentage and then to Steering Sensitivity means Sensitivity adjustments apply to the previously set Percentage.

Traxxas Link Model Memory: TQi transmitter saves settings for up to 30 bound receivers automatically. Model Lock prevents deletion of a specific model's settings.

To Activate Model Lock: Enter programming (hold MENU), press MENU 3 times, press SET, press SET again, press MENU once, press SET. LED blinks rapidly green.

To Delete a Model: Enter programming, press MENU 3 times, press SET, press MENU once, press SET to select deletion, press SET to confirm.

Menu Tree: Provides navigation for transmitter settings using MENU (move down) and SET (select/move across) buttons. BACK (MENU+SET) goes up a level. EXIT (hold MENU) saves and exits. ECHO (hold SET) plays back current position.

Programming with Apple/Android Devices: The Traxxas Link Wireless Module (#6511, sold separately) and the Traxxas Link app transform your iPhone, iPad, iPod touch, or Android device into a tuning tool with a graphical interface. The app displays real-time telemetry (speed, RPM, temperature, voltage) when sensors are installed. It allows easy adjustment of steering sensitivity, throttle trim, braking strength, and more.

Model 82256-4

Additional file metadata (model numbers / brand info):

• owner's manual
• owner's manual
• owner's manual