Traxxas X-Maxx Owner's Manual

Introduction

Thank you for purchasing the Traxxas X-Maxx equipped with the Velineon® VXL-8s Brushless Power System. The Velineon Power System offers incredible speed, efficient operation, long run times, and low-maintenance performance. Traxxas models are designed for total performance and satisfaction, backed by professional factory support.

This manual provides instructions for operating and maintaining your model. Please read it carefully to ensure safe operation and to unlock the full performance potential designed by Traxxas engineers. Pay close attention to all precautions and warnings.

Traxxas Support: For questions, contact Traxxas Technical Support toll-free at 1-888-TRAXXAS (1-888-872-9927) or visit Traxxas.com/support. Technical support is available Monday-Friday, 8:30 AM - 9:00 PM CST. You can also email support@Traxxas.com.

Quick Start: A Quick Start path is included to help you get your model running quickly. Refer to page 9 for details.

Registering Your Model: Register your product within 10 days of purchase at Traxxas.com/register.

FCC Compliance: This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC rules for Class B digital devices. Operation is subject to conditions that prevent harmful interference. Modifications not approved by the responsible party 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 conditions that prevent interference.

Radio Frequency (RF) Exposure Statement: Equipment complies with FCC and Industry Canada RF exposure limits. Maintain a minimum distance of 20 cm between the radiator and body or bystanders.

Before You Proceed

Carefully read and follow all instructions to prevent serious damage. Failure to do so may be considered abuse or neglect. Before running, examine the manual and the model. If you decide it's not what you wanted, do not run it, as your hobby dealer cannot accept returns after use.

Warnings, Helpful Hints, & Cross-References: Icons throughout the manual indicate important warnings (⚠️), helpful advice (?), and cross-references (➡️).

Support: Traxxas offers comprehensive support via phone, email, and online communities. Maintenance and replacement parts are available directly from Traxxas or your local dealer.

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

©2017 Traxxas. All rights reserved. Traxxas, Ready-To-Race, X-Maxx, Velineon, and ProGraphix are trademarks of Traxxas. Other brands are property of their respective holders.

Safety Precautions

All instructions and precautions must be strictly followed for safe operation.

Age Restriction: This model is not intended for use by children or minors under 14 years of age. Adult supervision is required for individuals under 18.

Skill Level: This model is Skill Level 6, intended for advanced drivers with experience, knowledge, and maturity. It is capable of extreme performance and high speeds.

LiPo Battery Warning: LiPo batteries pose a severe risk of fire and injury if improperly handled. Read and understand all instructions regarding LiPo battery handling, care, and use. A LiPo balance charger is required. NEVER use a NiMH or NiCad charger for LiPo batteries.

Terms of Use: The purchaser assumes all responsibility for operating the model and accepts liability for any misuse, unsafe handling, or failure to follow instructions.

WARNING: RISK OF INJURY! Do not stand directly behind the X-Maxx while driving to avoid injury from thrown objects. Keep spectators and animals at a safe distance. Eye protection is recommended.

Fire Hazard: Charging and discharging batteries can cause fire, explosion, injury, and property damage if not performed correctly. LiPo batteries require special care.

• Do not use chargers designed for NiMH or NiCad batteries.
• Always inspect LiPo batteries for damage before charging.
• Confirm charger settings match battery specifications. Do not exceed recommended charge rates.
• Charge batteries in a fire-retardant container on a non-flammable surface in a well-ventilated area.
• Never leave charging batteries unattended.
• Do not disassemble, crush, short circuit, or expose batteries to flame.
• Ensure battery contacts do not touch each other to prevent short circuits.
• Always unplug chargers and disconnect batteries when not in use.
• Never charge LiPo packs in series or parallel.
• If a battery becomes hot (over 110°F / 43°C), disconnect it immediately.
• Do not store or charge LiPo batteries with or around other batteries.
• Store batteries in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight and children/pets.
• Keep a Class D fire extinguisher nearby.
• Do not disassemble LiPo batteries or chargers.
• Do not attempt to build your own LiPo battery packs.
• Remove the battery from the model before charging.
• Do not expose chargers to water or moisture.

Important Points to Remember:

• Radio interference can cause momentary losses of control; maintain a safety margin.
• Range test your radio system before each session.
• Use new or freshly charged batteries for optimal signal.
• Motors, batteries, and speed controls can get hot; be careful.
• Choose appropriate driving locations; avoid public roads and congested areas.
• Do not drive alone; use a spotter.
• Do not operate at night or when visibility is impaired.
• Avoid driving close to yourself or spectators.
• Inspect the model for damage or loose components before running. Tighten wheel nuts periodically.
• Keep hands clear of moving parts when batteries are plugged in.
• Store the model with batteries removed, out of reach of children.
• Always disconnect batteries when the model is not in use.
• Do not continue operating with low batteries; stop immediately.
• If transmitter batteries are weak, the power light flashes red; replace them immediately.
• Use common sense at all times.

Speed Control (ESC) Precautions:

• Disconnect the battery when not in use.
• Insulate exposed wiring.
• Turn the transmitter on first.
• Be careful of hot ESC and motor; allow them to cool.
• Use Traxxas High-Current Connectors; do not change connectors.
• ESC is not protected against reverse voltage.
• External Schottky diodes are not compatible and will void the warranty.
• Adhere to ESC limitations. Do not mix battery types, capacities, or charge levels.

Tools, Supplies, and Required Equipment

Your model includes specialty metric tools. Additional items are available from your hobby dealer.

Supplied Tools: 2.5mm "T" wrench, 2.5mm "L" wrench, 2.0mm "L" wrench, 17mm wheel nut wrench, Battery pack spacers, Optional spur gear.

Required Equipment: Two identical LiPo batteries with Traxxas High-Current Connectors (5000mAh 11.1V 3S minimum, 6700mAh 14.8V 4S recommended), Traxxas LiPo battery charger (e.g., EZ-Peak Live™), 4 AA alkaline batteries for transmitter.

Recommended Equipment: Safety glasses, Traxxas Ultra Premium Tire Glue, Hobby knife, Side cutters/needle nose pliers, Phillips screwdriver.

Removing and Installing the Body: The X-Maxx uses an innovative latching system for body removal and installation. Follow the steps provided (turn handle counterclockwise, open latch, lift rear, slide backward).

Anatomy of the X-Maxx

Diagram illustrating key components:

• Lower Suspension Arm
• Upper Suspension Arm
• Gear Cover
• Rear Bumper
• Wheelie Bar
• Rear Shock Tower
• Spur Gear
• Pinion Gear
• Motor with Cooling Fans
• Battery Hold-Down
• Traxxas High-Current Connector
• Battery Compartment
• Accessory Power Panel
• Chassis
• Receiver Access Plug
• Stub Axle Carrier
• Caster Block (C-hub)
• Steering Servo (Under chassis)
• Front Bumper
• Front Shock Tower
• Shock (Damper)
• Electronic Speed Control
• LED Light Pipe
• Receiver Box
• Servo Saver
• Toe Link

Quick Start: Getting Up to Speed

Follow these steps for initial setup and operation:

1. Read Safety Precautions (page 4).
2. Charge two LiPo battery packs (page 13).
3. Install batteries in the transmitter (page 13).
4. Install battery packs in the model (page 14).
5. Turn on the radio system (page 15).
6. Check servo operation (page 16).
7. Range test the radio system (page 16).
8. Apply decals (page 10).
9. Drive your model (page 21).
10. Maintain your model (page 26).

Note: The Quick Start Guide is not a substitute for the full manual.

Traxxas TQi Radio & Velineon Power System

Applying Decals: Decals are pre-applied at the factory; additional decals are on self-adhesive mylar for easy application. Smooth decals from one end to prevent air bubbles.

Introduction: The TQi 2.4GHz transmitter with Traxxas Link™ Model Memory offers intuitive control and advanced tuning features. It supports adjustable Exponential, End Points, and Sub-Trims for steering and throttle.

Radio and Power System Terminology: Familiarize yourself with terms like 2.4GHz Spread Spectrum, BEC, Brushless Motor, Cogging, Current, ESC, LiPo, mAh, Neutral Position, NiCad, NiMH, Receiver, Resistance, Rotor, Sensored, Sensorless, Servo, Transmitter, and Trim.

2.4GHz Spread Spectrum: Offers superior interference resistance and automatic frequency selection.

BEC (Battery Eliminator Circuit): Powers the receiver and servos from the main battery pack.

Brushless Motor: Uses electronic commutation for efficient, high-performance operation.

Cogging: A slight stutter during acceleration from a stop, minimized by the VXL-8s ESC.

ESC (Electronic Speed Control): Provides precise, digital proportional throttle control and battery loss compensation.

LiPo Batteries: High energy density, high performance, require special care and handling.

mAh: Measures battery capacity, affecting run time.

Important Radio System Precautions: Handle the antenna wire carefully to maintain range. Do not kink or cut the antenna wire.

Velineon 1200XL Specs: Sensorless brushless, 1200 kV, 6.5mm bullet connectors, 48mm diameter, 110mm length, 665g weight.

Transmitter and Receiver: The TQi system uses two channels (throttle and steering) and the receiver has five output channels.

Model Wiring Diagram: Illustrates connections between transmitter, receiver, ESC, motor, and servos.

Installing Transmitter Batteries: Uses 4 AA alkaline batteries. Ensure correct polarity.

Selecting Batteries for Your Model: Requires two identical LiPo batteries with Traxxas High Current Connectors. Traxxas Power Cell LiPo batteries are recommended. Lists available LiPo battery part numbers and specifications.

Selecting a Charger for Your Model: Must use a LiPo charger. Traxxas EZ-Peak iD chargers are recommended for optimal battery life.

Use the Right Batteries: Use new alkaline AA batteries for the transmitter. Do not use rechargeable AA batteries.

Installing Battery Packs: Describes the process of inserting batteries into the battery compartment. Features Traxxas Battery iD for automatic charger recognition.

Traxxas High-Current Connector: Ensures efficient current flow for maximum power output.

Radio System Controls: Diagram of transmitter controls (steering wheel, throttle trigger, trim knobs, multi-function knob).

Radio System Rules: Always turn the transmitter on first and off last to prevent runaway models. Use new transmitter batteries for reliable signal.

Radio System Basic Adjustments: Throttle Neutral Adjustment (50/50 or 70/30 settings). Steering Trim adjusts the steering's center point. Multi-Function Knob can be programmed for various functions (default TSM).

Automatic Fail-Safe: Returns throttle to neutral in case of signal loss.

Using the Radio System: Steps for checking servo operation, range testing, and binding the transmitter/receiver.

Traxxas Stability Management (TSM): Enhances control on slippery surfaces and during high-speed cornering. Controlled by the Multi-Function knob.

Self Righting: Feature to automatically return the model to an upright position after a rollover.

Setting Up the Antenna: Instructions for securing the receiver antenna tube.

Adjusting the Electronic Speed Control (ESC)

VXL-8s Specifications: Input voltage (4S/6S/8S LiPo), supported motors, connectors, weight, case size.

Electronic Speed Control Adjustments: Default settings are factory-programmed. Information provided to confirm or customize settings.

Attention: Using LiPo Batteries: VXL-8s ESC is designed for LiPo batteries. Low Voltage Detection is activated. Do not use NiMH batteries, as they can overheat and cause damage.

Selecting a Throttle Mode: Choose between SPORT (full forward/reverse), RACE (no reverse), or TRAINING (50% forward/reverse) modes.

VXL-8s Setup Programming: Calibrates the ESC to the transmitter. Follow steps to set neutral, full throttle, and full reverse positions.

VXL-8s Profile Selection: Selects operating profiles: Profile #1 (Sport), Profile #2 (Race), Profile #3 (Training).

LED Codes and Protection Modes: The ESC has protection features that activate under certain conditions (Overcurrent, Low Voltage, Overvoltage, Thermal Shutdown). LEDs indicate the fault condition and required action.

• Solid Green: Power-on light, Low-Voltage Detection active.
• Current LED (A) Solid Red: Overcurrent Protection, Stage 1 (limits power to 50%). Check gearing.
• Current LED (A) Fast Blinking Red: Overcurrent Protection, Stage 2 (automatic shutdown). Remove obstruction or move to smoother surface.
• Voltage LED (V) Solid Red: Low Voltage Protection, Stage 1 (limits power to 50%). Stop driving, recover or charge batteries.
• Voltage LED (V) Slow Blinking Red: Low Voltage Protection, Stage 2 (automatic shutdown). Stop driving, connect fully charged batteries.
• Voltage LED (V) Fast Blinking Red: Overvoltage Protection (automatic fail-safe). Check battery voltage; do not exceed 33.6V total peak voltage.
• Temperature LED (F) Solid Red: Thermal Shutdown Protection, Stage 1 (limits power to 50%). Stop driving, check cooling fan, allow to cool.
• Temperature LED (F) Fast Blinking Red: Thermal Shutdown, Stage 2 (automatic shutdown). Stop driving, check cooling fan, allow to cool. Check for overgearing or driving conditions causing overheating.
• Solid Red LEDs or All LEDs Fast Blinking Red: Indicates critical functioning or programming error, or simultaneous protection modes. Contact Traxxas Customer Service.

Accessory Power Panel: The ESC can power optional accessories like LED lights or cooling fans.

Driving Your Model

Where to Drive: Choose large, open areas away from people and traffic. Be considerate of landscapes. Avoid running in tall grass, deep sand, or mud, which can cause overheating.

Precautions: Allow the model to cool between runs. Do not operate with low batteries. Do not drive at night, on public streets, or in crowds. If stuck, do not force the motor. Be aware of radio interference. Use common sense. Check hardware for tightness. Keep hands clear of moving parts. Store with batteries removed. Disconnect batteries when not in use.

About Run Time: Affected by battery capacity (mAh) and driving style. Higher mAh batteries offer longer run times. Repetitive stop-to-start and hard acceleration reduce run times.

Tips for Increasing Run Time: Use highest mAh batteries, a quality peak-detecting charger, follow maintenance instructions, keep ESC cool, lower gear ratio, maintain the model.

Running in Wet Conditions: The model has water-resistant electronics but is not fully waterproof. Additional maintenance is required.

• Precautions: Not all batteries are wet-environment compatible. The transmitter is not water-resistant. Avoid rain, lightning, and salt/brackish/contaminated water.
• Before Running in Wet Conditions: Consult "After Running" section. Cut small holes (3mm) in tires for water drainage. Ensure receiver box O-ring and cover are secure. Confirm battery compatibility. Use lower gearing for mud/puddles/snow.
• Motor Precautions: Motor life reduced in mud/water. Use light throttle if wet. Do not submerge motor. Do not gear by temperature in wet conditions. Use care in mud; stop if straining.
• After Running in Wet Conditions: Drain tires by spinning at high speed. Remove batteries. Rinse with low-pressure water (no pressure washer). Blow dry with compressed air (wear safety glasses). Remove wheels. Spray bearings, drivetrain, and fasteners with WD-40® or similar. Allow to dry completely.
• Receiver Box Maintenance: Remove cover during storage to allow air drying. Increase maintenance frequency for wet use or long storage to prevent corrosion.

Basic Tuning Adjustments

Adjusting Gear Mesh: Incorrect gear mesh can strip spur gears. Use the pin system or manual method (using paper strip) to set motor position for proper mesh. Select desired gearing from the chart.

Centering Your Servo: If the servo horn was removed, re-center the servo before installation. Connect servo to channel 1, ESC to channel 2. Turn on transmitter, turn off TSM, set steering trim to zero. Disconnect motor wires. Connect battery to ESC, turn on ESC. Servo will center. Install servo horn vertically. Check steering operation and adjust trim for straight tracking.

Fine Tuning the Shocks: GTX shocks influence handling. Periodic maintenance and tuning are recommended. Make changes in pairs (front or rear). Disassemble shocks by removing screws, retainer, spring, and cartridge. Reassemble with pure silicone shock oil. Tune by changing oil viscosity or piston. Adjust ride height using the threaded spring retainer for optimal handling and stability.

Maintaining Your Model

Timely maintenance is crucial for top running condition.

Frequent Inspection: Check for cracked/damaged parts, binding in wheels/steering, shock absorber operation, frayed wires, loose connections, receiver/servo/ESC mounting, wheel nut tightness, radio system operation, loose screws, and servo binding. Inspect gears for wear.

Other Periodic Maintenance:

• Cush Drive: Inspect for play; replace elastomer element if damaged.
• Chassis: Keep motor and ESC clean for optimal performance and temperature.
• Suspension: Inspect for damage, bent pins, damaged toe links, loose screws, or stress. Replace components as needed.
• Steering: Replace worn toe links (part #7748) to restore factory tolerances.
• Shocks: Maintain oil level with 100% silicone shock oil. Inspect bladder for damage if leaking from top. Rebuild if leaking from bottom (rebuild kit #7762).
• Driveline: Inspect driveshafts for cracks or wear. Check spur gear and pinion set screws.
• Torque-biasing center drive unit: Requires detailed maintenance and 20MM weight differential oil (part #5040).

Storage: Blow off debris. Always disconnect and remove batteries from the model and transmitter when storing.

Advanced Tuning Adjustments

Gearing Compatibility Chart: Provides recommended pinion/spur gear combinations for various battery types and driving conditions. Changing gearing affects speed, temperatures, and torque.

Roll Center: Adjusting roll center geometry affects chassis roll stiffness and traction. The X-Maxx has two roll center positions for front and rear links. Stock setup is optimized for handling.

Gearing Formula: Final Gear Ratio = (# Spur Gear Teeth / # Pinion Gear Teeth) x 8.11. Monitor temperatures when using high-speed gearing.

Temperatures and Cooling: The X-Maxx features a motor temperature sensor, cooling fans, heat sink, and ESC cooling fan to manage component temperatures.

Tuning the Sealed Gear Differentials: Differentials can be tuned with different viscosity silicone oils (SAE 10,000W front, 30,000W rear stock). Higher viscosity oil improves traction and distributes power more evenly, especially on low-traction surfaces.

Differential Removal and Refilling: Detailed steps for accessing and refilling front and rear differentials with silicone oil.

TQi Advanced Tuning Guide

Programming Your TQi Transmitter: Use the transmitter's buttons (MENU, SET, BACK, EXIT) or the Traxxas Link™ Wireless Module with a smartphone/tablet for advanced tuning.

Starting Over: Restoring Factory Defaults: Hold MENU and SET, then turn on the transmitter to reset settings.

Throttle Trim Seek Mode: Prevents accidental runaways by remembering the last saved throttle trim position.

Steering Sensitivity (Exponential): Adjusts steering response. Negative exponential decreases sensitivity near neutral.

Throttle Sensitivity (Exponential): Adjusts throttle response (forward only).

Steering Percentage (Dual-Rate): Controls the maximum steering throw percentage.

Braking Percentage: Controls the maximum brake travel percentage.

Throttle Trim: Adjusts throttle neutral position.

Steering and Throttle End Points: Sets the maximum travel limit for steering and throttle servos.

Steering and Throttle Sub-Trim: Fine-tunes the servo neutral position.

Setting Lock: Disables the Multi-Function knob to prevent accidental changes.

Multiple Settings and the Multi-Function Knob: Settings are overlaid; the knob's function can be reassigned.

Failsafe: Returns throttle to neutral on signal loss. Transmitter and receiver LEDs flash red.

Transmitter LED Codes: Provides a table of LED patterns and their meanings (Normal Driving, Binding, Low Battery, Link Failure, etc.).

Receiver LED Codes: Indicates Normal Driving, Binding, Fail-Safe/Low Voltage Detect.

Traxxas Link Model Memory: Stores settings for up to 30 models. Allows binding multiple transmitters to a model.

Model Lock: Locks a model's memory to prevent deletion.

Deleting a Model: Steps to remove a model from memory.

Menu Tree: Provides a visual guide for navigating transmitter settings using MENU and SET buttons.

Programming with Mobile Devices: Use the Traxxas Link™ Wireless Module and app for an intuitive, graphical tuning interface. Features real-time telemetry (speed, RPM, voltage, temperature) and model management.