Serpent Spyder SRX2 MID: Instruction Manual & Reference Guide

Welcome to Serpent

You are now part of the worldwide network of Serpent drivers, offering superior technical support and benefits. The Serpent Spyder is a state-of-the-art 1/10 buggy, built on Serpent's extensive knowledge since 1980. It features innovative design elements aimed at enhancing performance and helping drivers achieve success.

This instruction manual is designed for ease of use, featuring richly illustrated, 3D-rendered full-color images to guide you through the building process. A default set-up sheet is included to provide a solid starting point. Following these instructions will result in a well-built, high-performance racecar ready to unleash its full potential.

The manual is divided into logical sections to guide you through the assembly. Each step details the fasteners and small parts required, with bag numbers indicating the kit bag(s) containing the appropriate parts. Exploded views and a comprehensive parts list are provided at the back for reference, showing standard parts, optionals, hardware, and merchandising. A downloadable Excel parts list is available on www.serpent.com.

Information on safety and how to best utilize the manual is also included. The Serpent community, including drivers, dealers, and distributors, is available for support. Engage with the Serpent forum, social media (Twitter, Facebook), YouTube channel, Teamblog, and website for information and news.

Enjoy racing!

Team Serpent

Safety Precautions

This is a highly technical hobby product intended for use in a safe racing environment. The car is capable of speeds exceeding 80 km/h (50 mph). Adhere to the following guidelines:

Parental guidance is required for users under 16.
Follow building instructions carefully. Contact your dealer or importer if in doubt.
Use proper tools and exercise caution with electric tools, knives, and sharp objects.
Handle liquids (lubrication oil, fuel, glue) with care; do not swallow. Follow manufacturer instructions for skin irritation.
Operate the car safely, staying clear of rotating parts (wheels, gears, transmission) and hot components (motor, engine, exhaust, speedo) immediately after use. Protective gloves are advised.
Operate only in safe environments like dedicated racing tracks or closed parking lots. Avoid public roads, crowded areas, or proximity to infants.
Before operating, check the car's mechanical status and ensure transmitter/receiver frequencies are clear and batteries are fully charged.
After use, inspect all mechanics for wear or fractures. Clean the car immediately and replace worn parts. Do not use water, methanol, or thinners for cleaning.
Empty the fuel tank (if applicable) and disconnect the receiver battery for storage.
Store the car in a dry, heated place to prevent metal corrosion.
Avoid wet conditions, as water can cause corrosion on metal parts and bearings, leading to malfunction. If driven in wet conditions, ensure electronics are waterproofed and all moving parts are dried promptly.

Using the Manual

The manual uses numbers, lines, and symbols to guide assembly. Numbers indicate the order of assembly. Lines and symbols are explained below:

Step Number: Indicates the order for assembling specific parts.
Length: Represents the length of a component after assembly.
Assembly Path: Shows how one item is inserted into another.
Group Assembly: Items within lines should be assembled first.
Direction: Indicates the direction an item should be moved.
Glue: Symbol for applying glue.
Press/Insert: Symbol for pressing or inserting a part.
Connect: Symbol for connecting two items.
Gap: Indicates a gap between two items.

Lubricant Symbols:

Apply graphite grease (Grey symbol)
Apply silicone grease (Orange symbol)
Apply threadlock (Blue symbol)
Apply silicone oil (Droplet symbol)

Assembly Steps

STEP 1: FRONT ASSEMBLY

This step involves assembling the front suspension components. Parts required include two 4x8x3 screws, two 3x6x0.5 screws, and two Nylock nut M3 fasteners. Two 4x8x3 parts are attached to a base component using the 3x6x0.5 screws. Two Nylock nuts M3 are then used to secure other components, likely the main suspension arms, to the base.

Diagram shows attaching two 4x8x3 pieces to a central block using two 3x6x0.5 screws, then securing with two M3 Nylock nuts.

STEP 2: FRONT ASSEMBLY

This step continues the front assembly. It requires two M3x12 screws and two 4x8x3 parts. A ballstud assembly (2.1) with a length of 15.25mm is shown. A note indicates to ensure the ballstud is passed through a conical shim in the direction shown by a red arrow. Another 4x8x3 part is attached using an M3x12 screw and a 3x6x0.5 screw.

Diagram shows attaching a ballstud assembly (15.25mm) and a 4x8x3 part to the previously assembled component using M3x12 and 3x6x0.5 screws. A note highlights correct ballstud orientation with a conical shim.

STEP 3: FRONT ASSEMBLY

This step attaches the assembled front suspension components to the main chassis. It requires two M3x12 screws and two 3x6x0.5 screws. The diagram shows the previous assembly being connected to the chassis, with fasteners indicated.

Diagram shows attaching the front suspension assembly to the chassis using M3x12 and 3x6x0.5 screws.

STEP 4: FRONT ASSEMBLY

This step involves attaching a component to the front of the chassis using an M3x12 screw and an M3x10 screw. The diagram shows a part being mounted to the chassis front.

Diagram shows attaching a component to the chassis front using M3x12 and M3x10 screws.

STEP 5: FRONT ASSEMBLY

This step focuses on servo mounting and potentially battery tray setup. It requires M3x10 screws and 3.2x7x0.5 parts. A table lists servo manufacturers and corresponding spacer configurations (e.g., Airtronics, Futaba, Hitec). A note advises placing the servo in neutral before mounting the steering lever. It also mentions that some parts (like the servo horn) might not be included.

Diagram shows mounting a servo to the chassis using M3x8 screws. A table lists servo compatibility with different spacers. A note advises setting the servo to neutral before attaching the steering linkage.

STEP 6: FRONT ASSEMBLY

This step involves attaching a component to the chassis using M3x18 and M3x10 screws. The diagram shows a part being mounted to the chassis structure.

Diagram shows attaching a component to the chassis using M3x18 and M3x10 screws.

STEP 7: FRONT ASSEMBLY

This step involves assembling the steering blocks and caster blocks. It requires M3x10, M3x4, and 5x10x4 screws, along with bushings and caster shims. A note explains that caster shims and bushings should be inserted into the steering block first, then the assembly attached to the caster block. The diagram also illustrates different steering arm options (MORE ACKERMAN, LESS ACKERMAN), recommending assembly number 2 as the default.

Diagram shows assembling steering blocks with caster shims and bushings, then attaching them to the caster block. It also illustrates different steering arm configurations.

STEP 8: FRONT ASSEMBLY

This step involves attaching the front suspension arms to the chassis. It requires M2.3x4 and 3x24 fasteners. The diagram shows the lower suspension arms being connected to the chassis.

Diagram shows attaching the front suspension arms to the chassis using M2.3x4 and 3x24 fasteners.

STEP 9: FRONT ASSEMBLY

This step involves connecting the front suspension arms to the chassis using a 3x33 fastener. The diagram shows the upper and lower suspension arms being linked.

Diagram shows connecting the front suspension arms using a 3x33 fastener.

STEP 10: FRONT ASSEMBLY

This step involves attaching components to the chassis using M3x14 and M3x3 screws. The diagram shows parts being mounted to the chassis structure.

Diagram shows attaching components to the chassis using M3x14 and M3x3 screws.

STEP 11: FRONT ASSEMBLY

This step involves assembling and attaching tie rods or similar linkage components. It requires M3x14 and M3x3 screws. Two different lengths (17.25mm and 12.8mm) are indicated for the linkage. A note reiterates the correct ballstud and conical shim orientation.

Diagram shows assembling and attaching linkage rods of specified lengths (17.25mm, 12.8mm) using M3x14 and M3x3 screws. A note emphasizes correct ballstud and conical shim orientation.

STEP 12: FRONT ASSEMBLY

This step involves assembling and attaching more linkage components. It requires M3x10 screws and 3x6x1 fasteners. Specific lengths (12.8mm, 15.25mm) are indicated for the components. A note again emphasizes correct ballstud and conical shim orientation.

Diagram shows assembling and attaching linkage rods of specified lengths (12.8mm, 15.25mm) using M3x10 and 3x6x1 fasteners. A note emphasizes correct ballstud and conical shim orientation.

STEP 13: FRONT ASSEMBLY

This step involves attaching the front shock towers and related components. It requires M3x20 and M3x10 screws. The diagram shows the front shock tower being mounted to the chassis, with a detail view of the shock absorber mounting position.

Diagram shows attaching the front shock tower to the chassis using M3x20 and M3x10 screws. A detail view illustrates the front shock absorber mounting points.

STEP 14: REAR ASSEMBLY

This step begins the rear assembly, focusing on the rear uprights and suspension arms. It requires various fasteners including 2x10, 10x15x4, 5x13x4, 5x8x0.3, and M2x6 screws. A detail view shows the "Rear LEFT upright and insert assembly."

Diagram shows assembling the rear suspension uprights and arms using various fasteners (2x10, 10x15x4, 5x13x4, 5x8x0.3, M2x6). A detail view illustrates the left rear upright assembly.

STEP 15: REAR ASSEMBLY

This step involves assembling the rear gearbox or differential housing and connecting it to the chassis. It requires a 3x33 fastener and M2.3x4 screws. The diagram shows the rear suspension arms and gearbox assembly.

Diagram shows assembling the rear gearbox and connecting it to the chassis, using a 3x33 fastener and M2.3x4 screws.

STEP 16: REAR ASSEMBLY

This step involves attaching inserts to the toe blocks and assembling the rear bumper. It requires M3x10 and M3x6 screws, along with M2.3x4 fasteners. The diagram shows the rear chassis plate with inserts being fitted and the rear bumper attached.

Diagram shows inserting components into the rear toe blocks and attaching the rear bumper using M3x10, M3x6, and M2.3x4 fasteners. Detail views show front and rear inserts.

STEP 17: REAR ASSEMBLY

This step involves attaching components to the rear of the chassis, likely related to the rear suspension or drivetrain, using M3x14 and M3x12 screws.

Diagram shows attaching components to the rear chassis using M3x14 and M3x12 screws.

STEP 18: BALL DIFF ASSEMBLY

This step begins the assembly of the ball differential. It requires 5x8x2.5 parts and other small components. The diagram shows the initial parts of the differential.

Diagram shows the initial assembly of the ball differential, using 5x8x2.5 parts and other components.

STEP 19: BALL DIFF ASSEMBLY

This step continues the ball differential assembly, involving a gear, balls, and differential halves. It requires 8 balls and other small parts. The diagram shows the gear, balls, and differential components being assembled.

Diagram shows assembling the ball differential gear, balls (8 required), and differential halves.

STEP 20: BALL DIFF ASSEMBLY

This step completes the ball differential assembly, involving a shaft, seals, and bearings. It requires small parts and lubrication (indicated by oil droplet symbol).

Diagram shows the final assembly of the ball differential, including a shaft, seals, and bearings, with a note about lubrication.

STEP 21: TRANSMISSION ASSEMBLY

This step provides instructions on how to adjust the ball differential. It suggests screwing the adjustment screw all the way in and then backing it out by 1/4 turn for the default setting, with further small adjustments based on track conditions. It also notes to lubricate the o-ring with grease.

Diagram shows how to adjust the ball differential, with notes on default settings and track condition adjustments. It also mentions lubricating the o-ring.

STEP 22: TRANSMISSION ASSEMBLY

This step involves assembling the transmission housing and gears. It requires M3x12, 5x10x4, and 10x15x4 fasteners. A note specifies the correct orientation for the differential screw. It also details "DIFF HEIGHT SETTING," explaining how to change inserts to adjust the differential's height, with the default position being mid-diff.

Diagram shows the transmission housing assembly, including gears and differential. Notes provide guidance on differential screw orientation and differential height adjustment using inserts.

STEP 23: TRANSMISSION ASSEMBLY

This step focuses on the initial setting of the slipper clutch. It requires 3x7x0.5 fasteners. The diagram shows the slipper clutch components and indicates an initial setting of 1.5-2mm.

Diagram shows the slipper clutch assembly and its initial setting of 1.5-2mm.

STEP 24: TRANSMISSION ASSEMBLY

This step involves mounting the motor and pinion gear. It requires M3x8 and M2.5x6 screws. A note states that the pinion gear is NOT INCLUDED and refers to the Serpent pinion list in the reference guide. The diagram shows the motor being attached to the transmission housing.

Diagram shows mounting the motor to the transmission housing using M3x8 and M2.5x6 screws. A note indicates the pinion gear is not included.

STEP 25: TRANSMISSION ASSEMBLY

This step involves attaching the assembled transmission to the chassis. It requires M3x14 screws. The diagram shows the transmission unit being mounted to the chassis.

Diagram shows attaching the transmission unit to the chassis using M3x14 screws.

STEP 26: TRANSMISSION ASSEMBLY

This step involves assembling and attaching linkage components, possibly for the rear suspension or drivetrain. It requires specific lengths (27.9mm) for the components.

Diagram shows assembling and attaching linkage rods of a specified length (27.9mm).

STEP 27: FINAL ASSEMBLY

This step involves attaching components to the chassis, likely related to the rear suspension or drivetrain, using 3x6x1 fasteners. Specific lengths (17.25mm, 15.25mm) are indicated for the components. A note reiterates the correct ballstud and conical shim orientation.

Diagram shows attaching components to the chassis using 3x6x1 fasteners. Specific lengths (17.25mm, 15.25mm) are indicated. A note emphasizes correct ballstud and conical shim orientation.

STEP 28: FINAL ASSEMBLY

This step involves attaching a component to the chassis using M3x25 screws. The diagram shows a part being mounted to the chassis structure.

Diagram shows attaching a component to the chassis using M3x25 screws.

STEP 29: FINAL ASSEMBLY

This step involves attaching components to the chassis using M3x14 and M3x10 screws. The diagram shows parts being mounted to the chassis structure.

Diagram shows attaching components to the chassis using M3x14 and M3x10 screws.

STEP 30: FINAL ASSEMBLY

This step involves attaching components to the chassis using M3x14, M3x10, and M3x22 screws. The diagram shows parts being mounted to the chassis structure.

Diagram shows attaching components to the chassis using M3x14, M3x10, and M3x22 screws.

STEP 31: SHOCK ABSORBERS ASSEMBLY

This step details the assembly of the shock absorbers. It is divided into several sub-steps:

31.1: Apply silicone oil during assembly. Note the orientation of the shock cartridge.
31.2: Insert the o-ring inside the nut.
31.3: Assembly of shock rod with nut.
31.4: Assembly of rear and front shocks, specifying silicone oil usage and lengths (1.25mm, 0.75mm, 28.5mm for rear, 20.5mm for front).
31.5: Filling the shock body with silicone oil and moving the shock rod to release air bubbles.
31.6: Applying the gasket and cap, then closing the shock. Bleeding the shock by pushing the rod in slowly to allow excess oil to escape.
31.7: Mounting the o-ring and screw with the shock rod fully in.
31.8: Assembling the spring and spring-cup, ensuring correct alignment.

Diagrams illustrate the step-by-step assembly of shock absorbers, including filling with oil, bleeding, and attaching springs.

STEP 32: SHOCK ABSORBERS ASSEMBLY

This step involves attaching the assembled shock absorbers to the chassis. It requires M3 Plastic Nut Flanged fasteners. A note warns against overtightening and smashing the bushing, and to note the orientation of the lower shock pivot ball.

Diagram shows attaching shock absorbers to the chassis using M3 Plastic Nut Flanged fasteners. A note advises on proper tightening and orientation.

STEP 33: SHOCK ABSORBERS ASSEMBLY

This step involves attaching more components to the chassis, likely related to the shock absorber mounting. It requires M3x16 Flanged and M3x20 fasteners. A note again warns against overtightening and smashing the bushing, and to note the orientation of the lower shock pivot ball.

Diagram shows attaching components related to shock absorber mounting using M3x16 Flanged and M3x20 fasteners. A note advises on proper tightening and orientation.

STEP 34: ELECTRONICS ASSEMBLY

This step covers the installation of electronics like the ESC and receiver. A tip suggests using double-sided tape for mounting. It requires M3x16 screws. A note states that these components are NOT INCLUDED.

Diagram shows mounting the ESC and receiver to the chassis using M3x16 screws. A tip suggests using double-sided tape. A note indicates these parts are not included.

STEP 35: ELECTRONICS ASSEMBLY

This step involves attaching specific parts, possibly for battery configuration. It requires M3x10 screws. A note states that these parts should only be assembled if using shorty LiPos.

Diagram shows attaching parts using M3x10 screws. A note specifies their use with shorty LiPos.

STEP 36A: ELECTRONICS ASSEMBLY

This step details the default battery configuration: SADDLE LIPOS. It requires M3x10 screws and shows the battery placement. A note states that the battery is NOT INCLUDED.

Diagram shows the default battery configuration (Saddle LiPos) being installed. A note indicates the battery is not included.

STEP 36B: ELECTRONICS ASSEMBLY

This step details an optional battery configuration: SHORTY LIPO. It shows the battery placement. A note states that the battery is NOT INCLUDED.

Diagram shows the optional battery configuration (Shorty LiPo) being installed. A note indicates the battery is not included.

STEP 37: FINAL ASSEMBLY

This step involves attaching wing angle platforms to the chassis. It requires M3x12 and M3x3 screws. A note explains that two sets of wing angle platforms (2 and 4 degrees) are available and should be matched and oriented correctly. A detail view shows the 2-degree platform orientation.

Diagram shows attaching wing angle platforms using M3x12 and M3x3 screws. A note explains the availability of 2 and 4-degree platforms and their correct orientation.

STEP 38: FINAL ASSEMBLY

This step involves attaching the bodyshell. It includes instructions for painting, cutting, and applying decals. It also notes that rims are included, but rubber tires are not, and advises gluing the tires to the wheels. A Nut M4 flanged fastener is shown.

Diagram shows the bodyshell being mounted. Instructions are provided for painting and applying decals. Notes mention included rims and excluded tires, advising to glue tires to wheels. A Nut M4 flanged is shown.

Reference Guide: Exploded Views and Parts-List

This section provides detailed exploded views of each major assembly (Front Assembly I & II, Ball Diff Assembly, Transmission Assembly, Rear Assembly, Shocks Assembly, Final Assembly) and a comprehensive list of optional parts and merchandising items. These are valuable resources for identifying specific components and understanding their relationships within the car's structure.

Exploded Views: Detailed diagrams illustrate the breakdown of each assembly, showing all parts and their part numbers for easy identification and ordering.

Parts List: Lists all available spare parts, optional upgrades, tools, and merchandising items with their respective part numbers and descriptions. A full parts list in Excel format can be downloaded from the Serpent website.

Example Categories from Parts List:

Spare Parts: Standard components for the Serpent Spyder Buggy SRX2.
Decals: Branding and decorative stickers.
Radio Installation / Battery Optionals: Components for mounting radio gear and batteries.
Servo and Steering Optionals: Upgrades for servo mounts and steering arms.
Shock Absorbers Optionals: Various shock components and springs.
Springs: Different spring rates for shock absorbers.
Front/Rear/Middle Section Optionals: Upgrades for suspension and chassis components.
Transmission Optionals: Parts for the gearbox and differential.
Spurgear: Various spur gear sizes.
Pinions: Motor pinion gears.
Tools: Essential tools for assembly and maintenance.
Merchandising: Branded apparel and accessories.

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