HPI Racing mini recon User manual

Vol.1 105568
RTR RECON TRUCK

Table of contents
Page
Warranty 3
90 Day Component Warranty 3
Not covered by warranty 3
How to claim against your warranty 3
Specifications 4
Items required for operation 4
Electronic Speed Controller 4
Features 4
RaceMode 4
Transmitter 5
Preparing the transmitter 5
Functionswitches 5
ThrottleTrigger 5
SteeringWheel 5
Throttle/Steering Trim 5
End Point Adjustment Dials 5
SafetyPrecautions 6
Recommended Tools 6
Charging the battery pack 6
Cautions 6
Driving 7
Installing the battery pack 8
Turning on the power 8
Turning off the power 9
Maintenance after driving 9
Troubleshooting 9
Tuning 10
Front steering toe angle 10
Camber 10
Gearing 10
Pinion and Spur Gear Meshing 11
Adjusting the ride height 11
Adjusting the body height 11
Upgrading your performance 11
Gettingintoracing 11
PartsListing 12
Atom XB & XT Exploded Diagram 13
We know you will have great fun with your model, but to get the best from your purchase please read this information
BEFORE you operate the model.
HAVE FUN! But please read this first !!
2

90 Day Component Warranty
We want you to enjoy your purchase, but please read this first!
This product is covered by a 90 day component warranty from date of purchase. If any part of the product fails as a
result of faulty manufacture during this period then we will repair or replace that part at our discretion.
We do not operate a new for old warranty once the product has been used.
Please note this product is not a toy and it is recommended that children 14 and under are supervised by an adult. It
is the responsibility of the parent or guardian to ensure minors are given appropriate guidance and supervision.
If you suspect there is a problem with the product, for whatever reason, it is the user’s responsibility to investigate
and take steps to rectify the problem before further damage occurs.
Not Covered By Warranty
This is a sophisticated, high performance model and should be treated with care and respect. Every effort has been
made to make this product as strong and durable as possible, however due to the nature of this product, it is still
possible to break or damage parts through crashing or extreme use. Components damaged as a result of crash
damage, improper use, lack of maintenance or abuse is not covered by the warranty.
How to Claim Against your Warranty
For warranty claims please first contact your supplying retailer. Do not return the product to your distributor without
their prior approval. You may not need to return the product in full, only the damaged component along with a copy
of your purchase receipt. In many cases it is faster and more cost effective for the user to fit the replacement part(s)
to the product & therefore we reserve the right to supply parts only in these instances.
Any returned component that is inspected by your distributor and found to have an invalid warranty claim may be
subject to an inspection and handling fee before it can be returned. Any repairs required as a result of neglect or mis-
use will be charged before any work is carried out on the product. If you decide not to have any work carried out the
distributor reserves the right to charge a handling and a shipping fee.
Please attach your proof of purchase in the manual as you may need it again in the future.
3
Warranty

Specifications
Items required for operation
8 * AA Batteries for the Transmitter
Electronic Speed Controller
Features
• 6.0Volt — 8.4Volt Power Input
• High Frequency Drive System
• Forward/ Brake / Reverse or Forward / Brake Operation
Race Mode
4
Scale 1:18 Micro Size
Speed upto 20 mph std config
Drive Train 4wd Shaft Drive
Tyres Pre Glued Micro Pin
Climbing Angle upto 50 degrees
Power HPI Battery Pack 7.2V 1100mAh
ESC Powerful Forward/Reverse HPI SM-2 Electronic Speed Control
Motor Powerful 370 HPI 21 Turn Motor
Receiver High Quality 27Mhz HPI FM Receiver
Transmitter HPI 27Mhz FM transmitter
Servo HPI SM-1 Micro Steering Servo
Shocks Oil Filled
Bearings 15 high quality ball bearings
Centre Shaft Aluminium
Body Shell Lightweight Pre Painted polycarbonate
Motor Cables Battery Cables
LED
SwitchReceiver Cables
Mode Setting Switch
Your speed control is supplied with the setting switch
in S position for standard operation giving Forward /
Brake / Reverse control.
Changing the setting switch to R your speed control
will operate as forwards / brake only for racing use.

Transmitter
The HPI Transmitter is an advanced controller designed for the beginner to be easy to use and tune. You will need to
follow the steps below to ensure you prepare the controller correctly for use and understand the adjustment possi-
bilities available.
Throttle/Steering Trim
End Point Adjustment Dials
1 2
1 2
Insert 8 AA batteries into
the marked spaces.
Please note the correct
direction of the batteries
Incorrect battery insertion
could lead to damage
Preparing the transmitter
Insert the aerial into the
hole and turn clockwise
until it is tightly secured.
Make sure you never over
extend the aerial as this
will cause it to break.
Open the battery holding
tray to expose the empty
battery slots.
1. Aerial
2. Throttle Trim
3. Steering Trim
4. Frequency Crystal
5. Throttle Trigger
6. Steering Control
(wheel)
7. Power Switch
8. Battery level indicator
9. Steering reverse
switch
10. Throttle reverse
switch
11. Steering Throw dial
The function switches on the transmitter
Throttle Trigger
Steering Wheel
2
1
Neutral
1. Push the trigger
forward to brake
2. Pull the trigger
backwards to go
forwards and
speed up
L R
Turn the steering wheel
to the left or right to
make the go vehicle
left or right
Throttle Trim
1. Turn anti clockwise for
more brake
2. Turn clockwise for more
throttle
Steering Trim
1. Turn anti clockwise to trim
to the left
2. Turn clockwise to trim to
the right
1
4
72
3
5
6
8
9
10
11
The steering lock can be
adjusted by rotating the
shown in the picture.
Rotate the dial clockwise for
more steering lock.
Rotate the dial anti clockwise
for less steering lock.
5

Safety precautions
This product is an authentic radio controlled vehicle (RC vehicle) and it is not a toy. Read and understand this
instruction manual thoroughly before running the model. If you are not familiar with RC vehicles, we recommend that
you ask someone familiar with RC vehicles for advice.
Never connect the rechargeable drive battery in the reverse polarity or disassemble the battery. If the drive battery is
used in the wrong way, high current can be generated and it is very dangerous.
Never run RC models near people or animals, or on public streets or highways. This could cause serious accidents,
personal injuries, and/or property damage.
Recommended Tools
These tools are not included with the product but are recommended for use whilst working with this vehicle
Hexagonal Screwdrivers
3.0mm
2.5mm
2.0mm
1.5mm
Scissors Needle Nose Pliers Side Cutters
4-Way Cross Wrench
(Small) 4-Way Cross Wrench
(Large) Mini Screwdrivers
Charging the battery pack
Always use the included charger for the included battery pack. Do not use any other battery packs. Charging time for
an empty battery pack is about 6 hours. Do not charge the battery pack longer than 6 hours to avoid overheating and
battery damage.
Cautions
• This charger can be used only for the battery pack included in this kit.
• Do not charge the battery pack for longer than 6 hours. Overcharging generates excessive heat and will
damage the battery pack.
• Use the charger with adult supervision. Do not use the charger near water or when wet.
• Do not use the charger if the wire is frayed or worn. If the wire is frayed or worn a short circuit can cause a fire
or burns.
• If you are not sure about the level of the battery pack before charging use it in the vehicle until the vehicle
slows, leave to cool and then recharge.
Whilst your battery pack is charging please read the next section on driving.
6

Driving
Driving an R/C car can be very difficult to master but here are some basic tips to help you to understand how to use it
before you have your first attempt
• Drive the vehicle in a very large space, especially until you get the feel of driving the product.
• Do not run on public streets or highways. This could cause serious accidents, personal injuries and/or property
damage.
• Do not run in water or sand.
• Make sure everyone is using different frequencies when driving together in the same area.
• If you keep pulling the throttle trigger on the transmitter, the vehicle will keep accelerating and run very fast. It
is difficult to steer the vehicle running at high speed until you become used to driving. Drive the vehicle slowly
by pulling the throttle trigger to the fullest and quickly releasing it.
You can turn the vehicle right or left while it is running.
When the vehicle is running toward you, you need to operate the steering wheel in the opposite direction to the
operation when the vehicle is running away from you.
Practice turning the vehicle, referring to the following:
Rather than just paying attention to the direction of the steering wheel, imagine that you are at the centre of the
steering wheel, looking ahead of the vehicle, to turn in the direction you like.
Once you become conformable driving the
vehicle, practice driving on a track with cones.
Keep practising until you feel comfortable with
the steering, throttle and brake at low speeds.
Once you are feeling comfortable try using
reverse.
When you have mastered the basics you will
be able to drive at higher speeds in a more
controlled fashion.
7

Installing the battery pack
1. You need to insert the battery pack in the
open section for the battery. Use the strap provided
to place on top of the battery and then use the 2
retaining clips to secure the battery.
2. Once fastened and secured please connect
the battery plug into the speed controller plug
noting correct polarity. Red to red, black to black.
Turning on the power
Place vehicle on block to prevent wheels from touching the ground
Turn on transmitter first and then turn on receiver.
Turn on the transmitter switch and the LED battery indicator will light up.
If it blinks or does not light up, check the polarities and battery power.
If the battery power is low, replace the batteries with new ones.
Extend the aerial to its full length.
Turn on the receiver. The automatic set-up of the factory set speed control should
have been completed. If you experience any problems with the speed control settings refer to the Electronic Speed
Control Section for correct setup information.
If the front tyres are not pointing straight forward with the transmitter on, adjust the steering trim. Then if needed
make fine adjustments with the steering trim whilst driving the vehicle.
If wheels point left, turn clockwise If wheels point right, turn anti
clockwise. If they point straight no adjustment req.
8

Turning off the power
Turn off receiver first and then turn off transmitter.
If you switch off the transmitter first before the R/C car, you may lose control of the R/C car.
• Turn off the receiver switch.
• Turn off the transmitter switch and lower the aerial.
• Disconnect the battery connector from the speed control connector.
Make sure to always turn off the power in this order (opposite order of turning on the power). If you turn off the power
in the wrong order, the vehicle may run out of control and this can be very dangerous.
Always disconnect the battery connector from the speed control connector after driving.
Maintenance after driving
Proper maintenance is very important. Make sure to always perform appropriate maintenance after driving so that
you can enjoy driving without problems next time.
Completely remove all dirt and debris from the vehicle, especially in the suspension, drive shafts and steering parts.
Inspect each part and screw for loosening, missing or damages.
You should always make sure your wheels are tight and parts move freely after and before use.
Trouble Shooting
Please read this section if you have any fault trying to operate the vehicle
If you encounter any other fault whilst operating the vehicle please contact your local hobby shop or alternatively
contact your local distributor.
9
Problem Cause Remedy
The vehicle does not move
The vehicle does not follow your
driving inputs
Transmitter or receiver is off
Batteries are not placed correctly
in the transmitter
The main battery is not charged
Transmitter or receiver is off
Transmitter or receiver aerial is
not fully extended
Some one else is using the same
frequency as you
Turn on both the transmitter and
receiver
Place batteries in the transmitter
properly
Charge the main battery
Turn on both the transmitter and
receiver
Fully extend both aerials
Change your frequency crystals to
one which no one else around you is
using or wait until the driver of the
same frequency has finished driving
or go to a different place to drive
your vehicle
The front and rear wheels rotate
in opposing directions Incorrect user differential placement Insert the differential the correct way

Tuning
Your HPI R/C vehicle can be customised to enhance speed and performance. Simple adjustments and easily main-
tained settings will assure optimum operation and performance. When making adjustments, do so only in small incre-
ments and always check for other parts of the vehicle that are affected. Many aftermarket options are available to
make your HPI R/C vehicle faster and stronger. Use this section as a basic tuning guide and always make sure you
write down your base settings in case you need to refer to them at a later date. To adjust the various toe and camber
angles you will need to purchase the optional camber link tuning set.
Front Steering Toe Angle
The front steering toe angle has a dramatic affect on how your car performs and how your tyres wear. You can have
toe-in, zero toe or toe-out. This can be adjusted by turning the steering turnbuckles with pliers in the direction you
need.
Toe-in will be less reactive and cause the vehicle to under steer (front wheel push straight on whilst turning). This
can be advantageous for drivers struggling to get to grips with the driving of the vehicle.
Toe-out will be more aggressive on the steering response especially on small steering inputs. This will make the car
want to over steer (rear wheels slide on small steering inputs). This is useful as a race tuning aid to gain extra
steering.
Zero toe will make the front wheels run straight and make the car very neutral. Tyre wear will also be reduced and
the vehicle will feel easier to drive.
Camber
Camber can be adjusted on all 4 wheels of the car. You can have negative camber or positive camber which will
affect the contact patch of the tyre both statically and whilst cornering. Camber is mainly used to control the wear of
the tyre. You should adjust the camber to equal the wear all across the surface of the tyre. Camber is adjusted by the
top turnbuckle linking the wheel to the chassis front and rear.
Gearing
You can adjust the gearing of the vehicle by changing the pinion gear on the motor and/or the spur gear. You should
always try to adjust your gearing so that you reach top speed two thirds of the way down the longest straight. If you
gear the vehicle too high then you may cause excessive heat and premature wear. Stick to motor manufacturers
recommendations on gear ratio.
Exaggerated Toe-In Setting (never run
this much!) Exaggerated Toe-Out Setting (never run this much!)
This is an example of negative
camber. This is when the top of
the wheel is closer to the centre of
the car compared to the bottom
of the wheel. Negative camber will
give more contact area in the
corner and more grip.
Excessive amounts will cause less
grip and uneven wear.
This is an example of positive
camber. This is when the bottom
of the wheel is closer to the
centre of the car compared
to the top of the wheel. Positive
camber will give less contact
area in the corner and less
grip. Excessive amounts will
cause less grip and uneven
wear.
10

Pinion and Spur Gear Meshing
The pinion is the gear that is attached to the motor and the spur gear is attached to the drive train of the car. These
work together to make the transmission turn and drive the car. These parts will need to be correctly spaced together
(meshed) to make sure excessive wear does not occur. Once the motor is installed and the pinion gear is tight check
the mesh by trying to gently rock the spur gear with your finger (make sure no battery is connected). If you can rock
the spur gear a lot then it is too loose, alternatively if the spur gear does not rock then it is too tight. The easiest way
is to insert a thin piece of plastic (like a shopping carrier bag) between the pinion and motor before you tighten the
motor. Once tight remove the plastic carrier bag and check the mesh again. A small amount of rock should be there
on the spur gear.
Adjusting the ride height
The ride height of the chassis will greatly influence how the vehicle handles the surface it is being used on. For off
road it is recommended to have around 10-20mm of ride height.
Adjusting the body height
You can alter the height of your vehicles body shell. This is done by either pins/clips or screws depending on your
vehicle on the body posts. The body shells come in the optimum position as standard.
Upgrading your performance
There are many things you could choose to upgrade on an R/C vehicle to make it faster, stronger and more reliable.
Maverick cars have been designed to give you a very strong platform that is very reliable and fast enough to learn
about R/C cars in general.
You can upgrade the motor up to the speed controls limit. The HPI MSC-21 is a brushed motor speed control. Op-
tional speed controls are available which have lower motor limits. The HPI 1100 mAh Ni-MH battery pack can be up-
graded which will give you more run time, faster acceleration and more top speed from your vehicle.
Tyres can also be changed like real road cars. Many aftermarket options are available for different conditions but the
standard Maverick tyres have been specially chosen to meet the users needs.
There are many aspects of tuning that are too complex to describe in detail in this basic guide. You can adjust your
shock absorber oil, pistons, springs and shock position to alter how your vehicle takes the bumps. You can adjust
your roll centres to change how much grip the chassis generates in roll. You can adjust rear toe in, steering
ackerman, droop, diff tensions and types of diff to find extra performance.
Getting into racing
There is a wide network of R/C racing clubs around the world and if you feel the need for some competitive racing
then they may be the thing for you. Try doing an internet search for ‘remote controlled car racing’ and this will get you
on your way.
You should find your local model shop will be able to give you invaluable advice and support. The easiest way to find
one is by buying a specialist R/C car magazine or via looking in the telephone directory.
You can adjust the ride height on your vehicle by using the supplied black
composite spacers on the shock absorber body. The more spacers you add
the higher the chassis will sit of the ground. Make sure you add the same
amount of spacers on each side as unequal left to right ride height will result
in inconsistent performance.
You can adjust the front and rear ride height independently which will also
alter the handling characteristics. It is best to have equal front and rear ride
height.
11

12
Parts Listing
Part No Description
105503 MAIN CHASSIS/GEAR BOX SET
105504 ALUMINUM CENTER DRIVE SHAFT/MOTOR MOUNT SET
105505 HPI SM-2 ELECTRONIC SPEED CONTROL
105506 HPI 21 TURN MOTOR
105507 HPI SM-1 MICRO SERVO
105508 HARDWARE SET (RECON)
105509 COMPLETE DIFFERENTIAL/PINION GEAR
105510 SHOCK TOWER/BODY POST/TOP DECK SET
105511 BALL BEARING SET (RECON)
105512 SUSPENSION LINKAGE SET
105513 DRIVE SHAFT/AXLE SET (2pcs)
105514 FRONT SUSPENSION ARM SET
105515 REAR SUSPENSION ARM SET
105516 BUMPER/TOE IN PLATE SET
105517 STEERING SERVO MOUNT/SERVO SAVER SET
105518 FRONT SHOCK SET (ASSEMBLED/2pcs)
105519 REAR SHOCK SET (ASSEMBLED/2pcs)
105520 BATTERY PACK 7.2V 1100mAh
105521 SPUR GEAR SET (2pcs)/PINION GEAR SET (3pcs)
105522 THREADED ALUMINUM SHOCK SET (FRONT/REAR)
105523 ADJUSTABLE TURNBUCKLE SET (RECON)
105524 WHEEL/TIRE SET(4pcs)
105525 HPI OVERNIGHT CHARGER FOR RECON
105526 MUD THRASHER TIRE/6 SPOKE WHEEL SET (4pcs)

105517
105509
105511
105510 105503
105508
All Screws and fixings included in 105508
105519 Rear
105518 Front
105511
105507
105521
105514
105515
105512
105506 105504
105513
105512
105511
105509
105516
105505
105510
105513
105516 105521
Exploded Diagram
105510
13

14

15

www.hpi-europe.com
HPI Europe
19 William Nadin Way,
Swadlincote, Derbyshire,
DE11 0BB, UK
[phone]
www.hpiracing.net.cn
HPI China
311# Xiangshi Road,
Keihan Industrial Park Phase II Standards Plant 6th,
Kunshan, JiangSu, China 215312
([phone]
www.hpiracing.co.jp
HPI Japan
755-1 Aritama Kita-machi,
Higashi-ku, Hamamatsu-shi,
Shizuoka 431-3121 JAPAN
053-432-6161
www.hpiracing.com
HPI Racing USA
70 Icon Street
Foothill Ranch, CA 92610 USA
[phone]
[phone] Customer Service