Traxxas X-Maxx Owner's Manual

Introduction

Thank you for purchasing the Traxxas X-Maxx equipped with the Velineon® VXL-8s Brushless Power System. This manual contains the instructions you will need to operate and maintain your model so that you can enjoy it for years to come. We are confident you will be rewarded with high-speed performance in a durable, long-lasting product.

Please read through this Owner's Manual carefully. It contains all the necessary setup and operating procedures to unlock the performance potential of your model. Be sure to read and follow the precautions and warnings in this manual and on any labels or tags attached to your model. They are there to educate you on how to operate your model safely and also get maximum life and performance from your model.

Traxxas Support is with you every step of the way. Refer to the next page to find out how to contact us and what your support options are.

Quick Start: This manual is designed with a Quick Start path that outlines the necessary procedures to get your model up and running in the shortest time possible. Turn to page 9 to begin.

Registering Your Model: In order to serve you better as our customer, please register your product within 10 days of your purchase online at Traxxas.com/register.

Safety Precautions

All instructions and precautions outlined in this manual should be strictly followed to ensure safe operation of your model.

WARNING! RISK OF FIRE, INJURY, OR DEATH

This product is not a toy. This product is Skill Level 6 and is not intended for use by children or minors under the age of 14. Individuals under the age of 18 require responsible adult supervision during operation and maintenance. The X-Maxx is capable of extreme performance and high speeds, and it is only intended to be owned and operated by experienced users with advanced skills and expert driving ability. Responsibility, maturity, and common sense are required.

FIRE HAZARD! Charging and discharging batteries has the potential for fire, explosion, serious injury, and property damage if not performed per the instructions. Lithium Polymer (LiPo) batteries pose a SEVERE risk of fire if not properly handled per the instructions and require special care and handling procedures for long life and safe operation. LiPo batteries are intended only for advanced users that are educated on the risks associated with LiPo battery use. Traxxas does not recommend that anyone under the age of 18 use or handle LiPo battery packs without the supervision of a knowledgeable and responsible adult.

Important Points to Remember:

• Allow a safety margin in all directions around the model to prevent collisions.
• Range test your radio system in the area that you will be running the model.
• Always use new or freshly charged batteries in your model.
• The motors, batteries, and speed control can become hot during use. Be careful to avoid getting burned.
• Choose the right location to drive. Do not operate on public roads or congested areas.
• Do not drive the X-Maxx by yourself. Bring a friend along to act as a spotter.
• Do not operate your model at night, or anytime your line of sight to the model may be obstructed or impaired.
• Do not drive the model close to you where a mistake or loss of control could cause the model to collide with you or any spectator.
• Always carefully inspect your model for damage or loose components before running.
• Always disconnect the batteries in the model when it is not in use. Never store the vehicle with batteries in the model.
• Do not continue to operate the model with low batteries or you could lose control of it.
• Most importantly, use good, common sense at all times.

Speed Control Precautions:

• Disconnect the Battery: Always disconnect the batteries from the speed control when not in use.
• Insulate the Wires: Always insulate exposed wiring with heat shrink tubing.
• Transmitter on First: Switch on your transmitter first before switching on the speed control.
• Don't Get Burned: The ESC and motor can become extremely hot during use.
• Use Traxxas High-Current Connectors: Do not change the battery and motor connectors.
• No Reverse Voltage: The ESC is not protected against reverse polarity voltage.
• No Schottky Diodes: External Schottky diodes are not compatible with reversing speed controls.
• Always adhere to the minimum and maximum limitations of the speed control.

Tools, Supplies, and Required Equipment

Your model comes with a set of specialty metric tools. You'll need to purchase other items, available from your hobby dealer, to operate and maintain your model.

Supplied Tools and Equipment:

• 2.5mm "T" wrench
• 2.5mm "L" wrench
• 2.0mm "L" wrench
• 17mm wheel nut wrench
• Battery pack spacers
• Optional gearing

Required Equipment:

• Two identical LiPo batteries with Traxxas High-Current Connectors (Traxxas Power Cell LiPo iD® batteries are strongly recommended for maximum performance and safer charging. Minimum: 5000mAh 11.1v 3-cell (3s). Recommended: 6700mAh 14.8v 4-cell (4s)).
• LiPo battery charger (Traxxas EZ-Peak Live™, part #2971, sold separately).
• 4 AA alkaline batteries (Traxxas Power Cell Batteries, part #2914, sold separately) for the transmitter.

Recommended Equipment (not required for operation):

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

Removing and Installing the Body:

Your X-Maxx includes an innovative latching system for securing the body to the chassis. To remove the body for chassis access:

1. Turn the handle 90 degrees counterclockwise to unlock the body latch.
2. Open the latch to release the truck body from the rear shock tower.
3. Gently lift the rear of the body. Do not lift too far or the body will become difficult to remove.
4. Slide the body backward away from the front shock tower to release the front body tab. (Installation of the body is the reverse of removal.)
5. Practice this a few times until you become familiar with the latching mechanism.

Anatomy of the X-Maxx

Diagram showing the various parts of the X-Maxx:

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

Quick Start: Getting Up to Speed

This guide is an overview of the procedures for getting your model running. Look for the Quick Start logo on the bottom corners of Quick Start pages.

1. Read the safety precautions on page 4.
2. Charge two battery packs. See page 13.
3. Install batteries in the transmitter. See page 13.
4. Install the battery packs in the model. See page 14.
5. Turn on the radio system. See page 15.
6. Check servo operation. See page 16.
7. Range test the radio system. See page 16.
8. Detail your model. See sidebar, page 10.
9. Drive your model. See page 21.
10. Maintaining your model. See page 26.

The Quick Start Guide is not intended to replace the full operating instructions available in this manual. Please read this entire manual for complete instructions on the proper use and maintenance of your model.

Traxxas TQi Radio & Velineon Power System

Your model is equipped with the newest TQi 2.4GHz transmitter with Traxxas Link™ Model Memory. The transmitter's easy-to-use design provides instant driving fun for new R/C enthusiasts, and also offers a full complement of pro-level tuning features for advanced users.

Radio and Power System Terminology: Please familiarize yourself with these radio and power system terms. They will be used throughout this manual.

• 2.4GHz Spread Spectrum: Automatically selects and locks onto an open frequency, offering superior resistance to interference.
• BEC (Battery Eliminator Circuit): Powers the receiver and servos from the main battery pack.
• Brushless Motor: Replaces traditional brushed motors with intelligent electronics for rotation.
• Cogging: A slight stutter noticed when accelerating from a stop, typically associated with brushless motors.
• Current: A measure of power flow, measured in amps.
• ESC (Electronic Speed Control): The electronic motor control inside the model.
• Frequency band: The radio frequency used by the transmitter.
• kV Rating: Motor rpm per volt.
• LiPo: Lithium Polymer batteries, known for high energy density and requiring special care.
• mAh: Milliamp hour, a measure of battery capacity.
• Neutral position: The standing position of servos when transmitter controls are at neutral.
• NiCad: Nickel-cadmium batteries.
• NiMH: Nickel-metal hydride batteries.
• Receiver: The radio unit inside your model that receives signals from the transmitter.
• Resistance: How an object resists the flow of current.
• Rotor: The main shaft of the brushless motor.
• Sensored/Sensorless: Refers to brushless motor types based on communication with the ESC.
• Servo: Small motor unit that operates the steering mechanism.
• Transmitter: The hand-held radio unit that sends throttle and steering instructions.
• Trim: Fine-tuning adjustment of the neutral position of servos.
• Thermal Shutdown Protection: Protects the ESC from overheating.
• 2-channel radio system: Transmitter, receiver, and servos.
• Voltage: A measure of electrical potential difference.

Important Radio System Precautions:

• Do not kink or cut the receiver's antenna wire.
• Extend the antenna wire as far as possible for maximum range.
• Do not allow the antenna wire to extend outside the body without the protection of an antenna tube.

Velineon 1200XL Specs:

• Type: Sensorless brushless
• rpm/volt: 1200
• Connection type: 6.5mm bullet
• Diameter: 48mm (1.88")
• Length: 110mm (4.32")
• Weight: 665g (23.44oz)

Model Wiring Diagram:

Diagram illustrating the connections between the transmitter, receiver, servos, ESC, and motor.

ESC/Motor Wiring Diagram:

Diagram showing the wiring between the ESC, batteries, and motor.

Installing Transmitter Batteries

Your TQi transmitter uses 4 AA batteries. The battery compartment is located in the base of the transmitter.

1. Remove the battery compartment door by pressing the tab and sliding the door open.
2. Install the batteries in the correct orientation.
3. Reinstall the battery compartment door.
4. Turn on the transmitter and check the status LED for a solid green light.

If the status LED flashes red, the transmitter batteries may be weak, discharged, or possibly installed incorrectly. Replace with new batteries.

Selecting Batteries for Your Model:

Your model does not include batteries or a charger. Two identical LiPo batteries equipped with Traxxas High Current Connectors are required. Do not use Nickel Metal Hydride (NiMH) batteries. Traxxas Power Cell iD batteries are strongly recommended for maximum performance and safer charging.

LiPo Batteries with iD:

• 2872X: 5000mAh 11.1v 3-Cell (3s) 25C LiPo iD Battery*
• 2857X: 6400mAh 11.1v 3-Cell (3s) 25C LiPo iD Battery*
• 2889X: 5000mAh 14.8v 4-Cell (4s) 25C LiPo iD Battery*
• 2890X: 6700mAh 14.8v 4-Cell (4s) 25C LiPo iD Battery*

*Requires additional battery pack spacers for proper fitment.

WARNING: FIRE HAZARD! Users of Lithium Polymer (LiPo) batteries must read the Warnings and Precautions beginning on page 4. You MUST use a LiPo balance charger for LiPo batteries or battery damage with the potential for fire will result.

DO NOT use NiMH batteries with the VXL-8s electronic speed control. The batteries will become extremely hot and damage or injury could occur.

Selecting a Charger for Your Model:

Make certain you choose the correct type of charger for the batteries you select. Traxxas recommends you choose a genuine Traxxas EZ-Peak iD charger for safer charging and maximum battery life and performance.

Use the Right Batteries: Your transmitter uses AA batteries. Use new alkaline batteries (part #2914). Do not use rechargeable AA batteries to power the TQi transmitter.

Installing the Battery Packs

1. Pull out on the battery hold-down using the two release tabs and lift the hold-down up.
2. Insert a fully charged battery into the battery compartment with the High Current Connector positioned toward the front of the model.
3. Lower the battery hold-down and push it in toward the center of the truck to snap it closed.
4. Repeat for the opposite battery.

Note: The battery compartment will accommodate the Traxxas 6700mAh 4s battery pack (part #2890X). When using other LiPo batteries, additional foam blocks and battery pack spacers are required for proper fitment.

The Traxxas High-Current Connector: Your model is equipped with the Traxxas High-Current Connector. Standard connectors restrict current flow and are not capable of delivering the power needed to maximize the output of the VXL-8s. The Traxxas connector's gold-plated terminals, with large contact surfaces, ensure positive current flow with the least amount of resistance.

Radio System Controls

Diagram showing the TQi transmitter controls: Steering Wheel, Throttle Trigger, Steering Trim, Multi-Function Knob, Menu Button, Set Button, Link Button, Power Switch, Battery Compartment.

Radio System Rules:

• Always turn your TQi transmitter on first and off last.
• Always use new batteries for the radio system. Weak batteries will limit the radio signal.

Radio System Basic Adjustments:

• Steering Trim: Adjusts the neutral (center) point of the steering channel.
• Multi-Function Knob: Can be programmed to control various functions, such as Traxxas Stability Management (TSM).

Automatic Fail-Safe: The TQi transmitter and receiver are equipped with an automatic fail-safe system that does not require user programming. In the event of signal loss or interference, the throttle will return to neutral and the steering will hold its last commanded position.

Stop immediately at the first sign of weak batteries. Never turn the transmitter off when the battery pack is plugged in. The model could run out of control.

Using the Radio System

The TQi Radio System has been pre-adjusted at the factory. Check the adjustment before running the model.

1. Turn the transmitter switch on. The status LED should be solid green.
2. Elevate the model on a block or stand so all tires are off the ground.
3. Plug the battery pack into the speed control.
4. Turn on the model by pressing and releasing the EZ-Set button. The LED will shine GREEN. To turn the model off, unplug the batteries.
5. Operate the controls to check for proper response.
6. Check that the front wheels are pointing straight ahead. Adjust steering trim if necessary.
7. Gently operate the throttle trigger to ensure forward and reverse operation.
8. Turn off the receiver, then the transmitter.

Range-Testing the Radio System: Before each running session, range-test your radio system to ensure it operates properly.

TQi Binding Instructions: For proper operation, the transmitter and receiver must be electronically "bound." This is done at the factory. If you need to re-bind the system, follow these instructions.

Traxxas Stability Management (TSM)

Traxxas Stability Management (TSM) allows you to experience all the speed and acceleration that was engineered into your Traxxas model by helping you to maintain control of the vehicle in low-traction situations. TSM helps provide straight ahead full-throttle acceleration on slippery surfaces, without fishtailing, spinouts, or loss of control.

The Multi-Function knob on the TQi transmitter has been programmed to control TSM. The recommended (default) setting is to rotate the knob to the 12:00 position. Turn the knob clockwise to increase assistance; turn counterclockwise to decrease assistance. Turn the knob counterclockwise to its stop to turn TSM completely off.

Setting Up the Antenna: The receiver antenna has been set up and installed from the factory. Ensure the antenna wire is secured and not kinked or cut.

Self Righting: Your model is equipped with Traxxas Self Righting that will allow you to automatically return it to an upright position after a rollover. Press and hold the SET button for four (4) seconds to activate the self-righting feature.

Adjusting the Electronic Speed Control

The VXL-8s electronic speed control's default settings were programmed at the factory and should not require adjustment for normal operation.

ATTENTION: USING LiPo BATTERIES: The VXL-8s electronic speed control is designed to operate on 4S, 6S, or 8S LiPo battery power. Low Voltage Detection is activated to prevent over-discharging of LiPo batteries.

DO NOT use NiMH batteries with the VXL-8s electronic speed control.

Selecting a Throttle Mode: SPORT, RACE, or TRAINING:

1. Connect two fully charged LiPo batteries and turn on your transmitter.
2. Press and hold the EZ-Set button until the LED turns solid green, then solid red, then begins blinking red (indicating the mode).
3. Release the EZ-Set button after the number of blinks for the desired mode.

VXL-8s Setup Programming (Calibrating the Speed Control and Transmitter):

1. Connect two fully charged LiPo batteries and turn on your transmitter.
2. Press and hold the EZ-Set button until the LED turns green, then red. Release the EZ-Set button.
3. When the LED blinks RED ONCE, pull the throttle trigger to the full throttle position and hold it.
4. When the LED blinks RED TWICE, push the throttle trigger to the full reverse and hold it.
5. When the LED blinks GREEN ONCE, programming is complete.

VXL-8s Profile Selection: The speed control is factory set to Profile #1 (Sport Mode). Profiles #2 (Race Mode) and #3 (Training Mode) can be selected by entering the programming mode.

LED Codes and Protection Modes: The VXL-8s electronic speed control is equipped with sophisticated circuitry designed to help protect the electronics from damage.

• Solid Green: VXL-8s power-on light. Low-Voltage Detection is ACTIVATED.
• Current LED (A) Solid Red: Overcurrent Protection, Stage 1.
• Current LED (A) Fast Blinking Red: Overcurrent Protection, Stage 2.
• Voltage LED (V) Solid Red: Low Voltage Protection, Stage 1.
• Voltage LED (V) Slow Blinking Red: Low Voltage Protection, Stage 2.
• Voltage LED (V) Fast Blinking Red: Overvoltage Protection.
• Temperature LED () Solid Red: Thermal Shutdown Protection, Stage 1.
• Temperature LED () Fast Blinking Red: Thermal Shutdown, Protection Stage 2.
• Current/Voltage/Temperature LEDs Solid Red or all LEDs Fast Blinking Red: Critical functioning or programming error.

Driving Your Model

This section contains instructions on driving and making adjustments to your model.

Where to drive: X-Maxx is a large vehicle capable of high speed and requires a large area to run. Choose a location where the X-Maxx will not have an opportunity to collide with onlookers or interfere with pedestrian or vehicular traffic.

About Run Time: A large factor affecting run time is the type and condition of your batteries. The milliamp hour (mAh) rating of the batteries determines how large their “fuel tank” is.

Tips for Increasing Run Time:

• Use batteries with the highest mAh rating you can purchase.
• Use a high-quality peak-detecting charger.
• Keep the VXL-8s cool. Get plenty of airflow across the ESC heat sinks.
• Lower your gear ratio.
• Maintain your model.

Running in Wet Conditions: Your Traxxas model is designed with water-resistant features to protect the electronics. However, it should not be treated as though it is submersible or totally 100% waterproof.

Precautions for Wet Conditions:

• Consult your battery manufacturer to see if their batteries can be used in wet conditions.
• The Traxxas TQi transmitter is not water resistant.
• Do not operate your model during a rain storm or other inclement weather where lightning may be present.
• Do not allow your model to come in contact with salt water, brackish water, or other contaminated water.
• Confirm that your batteries can be used in wet conditions.
• Use lower gearing when running in mud, deep puddles, snow, or other situations that will restrict the tires and put much higher loads on the motor.

Motor Precautions for Wet Conditions:

• Velineon motor life can be greatly reduced in mud and water. If the motor gets excessively wet or submerged, use very light throttle until the excess water can run out.
• Do not gear the motor by temperature when running in wet conditions.
• Use special care when operating your model in muddy conditions.

Before Running Your Vehicle in Wet Conditions:

1. Consult the section "After Running Your Vehicle in Wet Conditions" before proceeding.
2. The wheels have small holes molded in to allow air to enter and exit the tire during normal running. Cut two small holes (3mm or 1/8" diameter) in each tire.
3. Confirm that the receiver box O-ring and cover are installed correctly and secure.

After Running Your Vehicle in Wet Conditions:

1. Drain the tires by spinning the tires at high speed to "sling" the water out.
2. Remove the batteries.
3. Rinse excess dirt and mud off the truck with low-pressure water.
4. Blow off the truck with compressed air (optional).
5. Remove the wheels from the truck.
6. Spray all the bearings, drivetrain, and fasteners with WD-40® or similar water-displacing light oil.
7. Let the truck stand or you may blow it off with compressed air.

Receiver Box: Maintaining a Watertight Seal: The unique design of the receiver box allows the removal and installation of the receiver without losing the ability to maintain a watertight seal in the box.

Basic Tuning Adjustments

Once you become familiar with driving your model, you might need to make adjustments for better driving performance.

Adjusting Gear Mesh: Incorrect gear mesh is the most common cause of stripped spur gears. X-Maxx makes improper gear mesh virtually impossible.

Centering Your Servo: If you have removed the servo horn from your X-Maxx's steering servo, or the servo has been removed for service or cleaning, the servo must be re-centered prior to installation of the servo horn.

Fine Tuning the Shocks: The four GTX shocks greatly influence handling. Periodic maintenance may be required to maintain optimal performance. You can also tune your shocks to your driving style or running environment.

Advanced Tuning Adjustments

Roll Center: X-Maxx has provisions for adjusting the roll center geometry of the front and rear suspension.

Gearing: Changing the gearing allows you to fine tune the speed of the model and control the temperatures of the battery pack and motor.

Temperatures and Cooling: The X-Maxx includes several features to help cool the electronic components.

Tuning the Sealed Gear Differentials: The action of the front and rear gear differentials can be tuned for different driving conditions and performance requirements without major disassembly or removal of the suspension system.

TQi Advanced Tuning Guide

Your Traxxas transmitter has a programmable Multi-Function knob that can be set to control various advanced transmitter functions.

Starting Over: Restoring Factory Defaults: Follow these simple steps to restore the factory settings.

Throttle Trim Seek Mode: When the Multi-Function knob is set to throttle trim, the transmitter remembers the throttle trim setting.

Steering Sensitivity (Exponential): The Multi-Function knob can be set to control Steering Sensitivity.

Throttle Sensitivity (Throttle Exponential): The Multi-Function knob can be set to control Throttle Sensitivity.

Steering Percentage (Dual-Rate): The Multi-Function knob can be set to control the amount (percentage) of servo travel applied to steering.

Braking Percentage: The Multi-Function knob may also be set to control the amount of brake travel applied by the servo.

Throttle Trim: Setting the Multi-Function knob to serve as throttle trim will allow you to adjust the throttle's neutral position.

Steering and Throttle End Points: The TQi transmitter allows you to choose the limit of the servo's travel range.

Steering and Throttle Sub-Trim: The Sub-Trim function is used to precisely set the neutral point of the steering or throttle servo.

Setting Lock: Once you've adjusted all of these settings, you may want to disable the Multi-Function knob.

Failsafe: Your Traxxas radio system is equipped with a built-in failsafe function that returns the throttle to its last saved neutral position in the event of a signal loss.

Transmitter LED Codes: Table of LED codes and their meanings.

Receiver LED Codes: Table of LED codes and their meanings.

Traxxas Link Model Memory: Traxxas Link Model Memory is an exclusive, patent-pending feature of the TQi transmitter.

Programming Your TQi Transmitter with Your Apple iPhone, iPad, iPod Touch, or Android Mobile Device: The Traxxas Link™ Wireless Module transforms your device into a powerful tuning tool.

Traxxas Link App: The Traxxas Link app gives you complete control over the operation and tuning of your Traxxas model with stunning visuals and absolute precision.

Real-Time Telemetry: When you equip your model with sensors, the Traxxas Link dashboard comes to life showing you speed, RPM, temperature, and battery voltage.

Manage up to 30 Models with Traxxas Link: The TQi radio system automatically keeps track of what vehicles it has bound to.