Panda Hobby Tetra X1 User manual

Thank you for purchasing a PandaHobby 1/18th 4WD ScaleCrawler.
Your model isa high quality 4WD vehicle.
This manual contains the instructions you will need to operate and maintain
your model so that you can enjoy it for yearsto come. We want you to feel
confident that you own one of the best-performing models in the market
and that it is backed by ateam of professionals who aim to provide the high-
est level of factory support possible.This manual contains all the necessary
setup and operating procedures that allow you to unlock the performance
and potential that our engineers designed into your model. Evenif you are an
experienced R/Centhusiast, it' important to read and follow the procedures in
this manual. Thank you for choosing PandaHobby. We hope you enjoy your
new model!
CONTENTS
SAFETYPRECAUTIONS................................................................................1
SUPPLIEDEQUIPMENTAND REQUIREDEQUIPMENT.......................1
3-VIEWDRAWING..........................................................................................2
BOTTOMVIEWPARTS...................................................................................3
SPECIFICATIONS.............................................................................................4
DRIVINGYOURMODEL................................................................................5
CHARGINGINSTRUCTIONS........................................................................6
GETTINGSTARTED.........................................................................................6
TRANSMITTERCONTROLS..........................................................................?
Maintaining Your Model..............................................................................10
TROUBLESHOOTING......................................................................................11
ASSEMBLYSTEPS............................................................................................13
EXPLODEDVIEW..............................................................................................33
PARTSLIST.........................................................................................................35

IP SAFETYPRECAUTIONS
All instructions and precautions outlined in this manual should be strictly followed to ensure safe operation
of your model. This model is not intended for use by children under 14 years of age without the supervision
of a responsible and knowledgeable adult.
We want you to safely enjoy your new model. Operate your model sensibly and with care, and it will be
exciting, safe, and fun for you and those around you. Failure to operate your model in a safe and responsible
manner may result in property damage and serious injury. The precautions outlined in this manual should
be strictly followed to help ensure safe operation. You alone must see that the instructions are followed and
the precautions are adhered to.
Important Points to Remember
•Your model is not intended for use on public roads or congested areas where its operation can conflict
with or disrupt pedestrian or vehicular traffic.
• Never, under any circumstances, operate the model in crowds of people. Your model is fast and could
cause injury if allowed to collide with anyone.
• Because your model is controlled by radio, it is subject to radio interference from many sources that are
beyond your control. Since radio interference can cause momentary losses of radio control, always allow a
safety margin in all directions around the model in order to prevent collisions.
•The motor and battery can become hot during use. Be careful to avoid getting burnt.
: Don_'toperate your model at night, or anytime your line of sight to the model may be obstructed or
1mpa1red in any way.
•Most importantly, use good common sense at all times.
ESC (Speed Control)
• Disconnect the Battery: Always disconnect the battery from the model when not in use.
•Transmitter on First: Switch on your transmitter first before switching on the speed control to prevent
runaways and erratic performance.
• Don't Get Burnt:The motor can become extremely hot during use, so be careful not to touch it until it is
cool. Make sure there is adequate airflow to the motor.
•Use the Factory-Installed Connectors: Do not change the battery connector. Improper wiring can cause
fire or damage to the ESC.Please note that modified speed controls can be subject to a rewiring fee when
returned for service.
•Insulate the Wires: Always insulate exposed or damaged wiring with heat shrink tubing to prevent short
circuits. More information please refer to your ESCinstruction manual.
SUPPLIEDEQUIPMENTANDREQUIREDEQUIPMENT
SUPPLIED EQUIPMENT
7.4V Li-ion Battery USB Charger
~
Body Clips Cross wrench
GJ
2.4Ghz 3ch Full
Function Radio
Hex Wrench 1.5mm
IEI 8l~
IEI 8l~
IEI 8l~
IEI 8l~
4AA Alkaline
Dry Batteries
8
Sticker
Spring Clips thin x 4
Spring Clips thick x 4
Jumper Plug
Flag
REQUIRED EQUIPMENT
Nothing
PA.VOA HtJaa~. TETRA. INSTRUCTIONMANUAL

3-VIEWDRAWING
c
in
M
~
E
E
<D
M
l 20mm(4.72in)
21mm(0.83in)
263mm(l 0.3in)
54mm(2. l 3in)
150mm(5.9in)
263mm(l 0.3in)
PA.VOA. HiJilil1r · TETRA· INSTRUCTIONMANUAL

BOTTOMVIEWPARTS
Front Bumper
Steering Knuckle Arm
Front Shock
Driveshaft
Absorber
/
Rear Bumper
Spare Tire
~il.i#Dil. Hoaal'. TETRA. INSTRUCTIONMANUAL

SPECIFICATIONS
Vehicle Type: 4WD ScaleCrawler
Approximate Assembly Time: No assembly required - true RTR
Battery: 2-cell Li-ion w/JST connector (included) *2
Body: Scale,silk printed
Motor Size: Brushed 180 51T reverse rotation
Motor Type: Brushed
Charger: USBCharger
ChassisStructure/ Material: Steel Ladder Frame with Nylon Composite Crossmembers
Drive System: Shaft Driven 4WD
Completion Level: Ready-To-Run
Differential: Locked
Radio: 2.4GHz
Steering servo: Included
Size/Scale: 1:18
Speed Control: Included - fully proportional forward & reverse
Suspension: Solid Axle 4-Link
Water-Resistant: Yes
Wheel Type: BlackMolded
ShockType: 55mm(2 l 6 in) Oil filled, alloy (4)
BrakeType: Electronic
Steering: ChassisMounted Servo
Transmission: 3 speed electronic switch, Remote Shifting
Lights: Front & RearLED(controllable)
Approach Angle: 55° Ground clearance: 27mm capable: (106")
Departure Angle: 60° Axle ground clearance: 21mm: (0.83")
Breakover Angle: 44° Height: 136mm (5.35 in)
Max climb angle: 50° Length: 263mm (10.30 in)
Max tilt angle: 45° Width 120mm (472 in)
Axle articulation: 25° Wheelbase: 150mm (5.90 in)
FrontTrack: 119mm (468 in) RearTrack: 119mm (468 in)
Shock Length: 55mm (2.16 inches) Weight Blocksweight: 46g(l 62oz)
Wheels: 25.4 x 15mm (1 x0.6 inches) Running weight: 483g (1.06lbs)
Tires: 54x 21mm (2.13x 0.83 inches) Weight without battery: 455g (100lbs)
Wheel Hex Size: 7mm Body Weight with Iights: 93g (3.28oz)
Battery Tray: 48 Lx 30Wx 22mm H
Pinion: 12T
Spur Gear: 24T
Transmission: 3 speed electronic switch, Remote Shifting
Drivetrain ratio: 35.5:1
Axle gearing: 2:1
PAiVDA ilOaa~. TETRA. INSTRUCTIONMANUAL

0
DRIVINGYOURMODEL
Now it'stime to have some funl This section contains instructions on driving and making adjustments
to your model. Beforeyou go on, here are some important precautions to keep in mind.
•Allow the model to cool for afew minutes between runs.This is particularly important when using
high-capacity battery packsthat allow extended periods of running. Monitoring temperatures will
extend the livesof the battery and motor.
•Do not continue to operate the model with low batteries or you could losecontrol of it. Indications of
low battery power include slow operation and sluggish servos (slow to return to center). Stop immedi-
ately at the first sign of weak batteries. When the batteries in the transmitter become weak, the red
power light (please referto the section of radio system user'sguide) will begin to f1ash.Stop immediate-
ly and install new batteries.
•Do not drive the model at night, on public streets,or in large crowds of people.
•Ifthe model becomes stuck against an object, do not continue to run the motor. Remove the obstruc-
tion before continuing. Do not push or pull objects with the model.
•Avoid running your model in tall grass,deep sand,or other conditions that severely limit the driving
performance of the model. This will strain the power system and could cause early motor failure.
•Becausethe model iscontrolled by radio, it issubject to radio interference from many sources beyond
your control. Since radio interference can cause momentary lossesof control, allow a safety margin of
space in all directions around the model in order to prevent collisions.
•Usegood, common sensewhenever you aredrivingyour model. Intentionally driving in an abusive and
rough manner will only result in poor performance and broken parts.Takecare of your model so that
you can enjoy it for a long time to come.
•High-performance vehicles produce small vibrations that may loosen hardware over time. Frequently
check wheel bolts and other screws on your vehicle to ensure that all hardware remains properly
tightened.
About RunTime
It'simpossible to give exact run times for the model, but typically you can expect 20 minutes. Another
major factor that affects run time is how the model isdriven. Run times may decrease when the model
isdriven repetitively from a stop to top-speed and with repetitive hard acceleration.
Tips for Increasing RunTime
•Usethe included charger.
•Readand follow all maintenance and care instructions provided by the manufacturer of your batteries
and charger.
•Keepthe speed control cool.
•Maintain your model. Do not allow dirt or damaged parts to cause binding in the drivetrain. Keepthe
motor clean.
•Considering purchasing an optional higher capacity battery.
~i:.iWIA HOIIBZ' · TETRA· INSTRUCTIONMANUAL

CHARGINGINSTRUCTIONS
This isaguide for the care and usage of the charger and battery that comes with the vehicle.
C636082-USB Charger
C636081- 7.4V 700Mah Li-ion Battery
A CAUTION:The C636082 charger isfor use
~with 2-cell 7.4VLi-ion batteries ONLYand
should not be used with any other batteries.
A CAUTION:Never leave the battery unattended
~while charging. Always disconnect the battery
and unplug the charger when finished charging.
A CAUTION:Never store the battery in your car
~in direct sunlight. Excessiveheat may damage
the battery.
A CAUTION:Never charge the battery if it is
~damaged in any way.loose wires, punctured,
puffy or wet.
Remove the battery from the vehicle before charging.
• Placethe battery on a fire-resistant surface away
from combustible materials.
• Keep the battery and charger away from water and
other f1uids.Never charge a wet battery.
1.Connect the USBconnector to a PCUSBport or to a
USBAC wall adapter. The Red LEDshould be lit and
solid.
2.Connect the battery to the JSTconnector on the
charger. The Red LEDshould be lit and stay solid,
and the Green LEDshould Flashto indicate
charging has commenced. The charger will
automatically begin the charging process.When the
3.Red LEDand the Green LEDare both solid, the
battery isfully charged.
When using the (636082 charger, the (636081 battery should fully charge in 1 hour.
GETTINGSTARTED
CDRemovethe body clips and body.
Cll3 Reverae CH1
[DJ N[O)R
@Install the battery.
@Turn on the transmitter.
Pi:.iViJi:.ilOaazr. TETRA . INSTRUCTIONMANUAL
@Connect the battery to the ESC
Powerto the vehicle iscontrolled by
connecting/disconnecting the battery.
®install the body and body clips.

TRANSMITTERCONTROLS
RADIO SYSTEM SPECIFICATIONS
Transmitter
Model:MT-305A
FHSSOutput Power:<100mW
OperatingVoltage:4.8-6V
PowerSupply:4 CellAlkaline
Frequency/ModulationType:2.4GHzFHSS
Receiver
Model:MR-203A
Frequency:2.4GHzFHSS
OperatingVoltage:6V-7.4V
Dimensions:33*33*1Smm
TRANSMITTER AND RECEIVER/ESC DIAGRAMS
Grip
Battery Compartment
Antenna Wire
Receiver/ESC COMBO
I
Battery
0
Antenna(Built in)
\
Remote Shifting
LED ReverseCH1
CHI RMrll Cll1
cm NID)R
Throttle Trigger Remote Shifting
(CH2) Speed L-M-H --+-- cm -------,f--- Steering Dual
L I N DIR RateKnob(DIR)
CH1
Steering Trim
Power/Bind
indicator
-------1\---:6:
CH1
@ Bind
----+--0 ------+-- Button
lllhl
PowerSwitch
Brake OFF I Channel Output
"1":Steering(CH1)
"2":Throttle(CH2)
"3":Headlights(CH3)
"4":LEDBrake
"5":LEDReverse
CH6-BrakeFunction
ON/OFFbyJumperPlug
CHS-LEDReverse
CH4-LEDBrake
CH3-Headlights
CH2-Throttle
CHl-Steering
Power
-Switch
"6":BrakeFunction ON/OFF
by Jumper Plug
* Notethat the default brakeoperation isto havethe brakingfunction operational
betweenforwardsandreverse.Thismeansasyoureleasethethrottle triggerto neutral
therewill besomebrakingaction occurring.Ifyou do not want this brakingaction
please install the jumper plug as shown.
'CH3,CH4andCHSshouldbe usedto connect the lightsto the receiver.Thelights
connected to CH3 can be controlled remotely from the remote controller. CH4 and CHS
are dynamic controls, respectively brake lights and reversing lights. These will light up
when you use the brakes around neutral point on the throttle, and the reversing lights
will light up when you push the trigger forward and engage reverse.
Pleasefollow these instructions to make sure that your lights are controllable, and not
always on.
Important Note: the blackplug with 2 wires(red& black)should beplugged in at the
SW position, but the negative pin must be left blank. The black plug should be oriented
so that the negative pin is blank and the 2 wires are connected to+ and S.
~il.i'IDA ilOaal'. TETRA. INSTRUCTIONMANUAL

TRANSMITTERCONTROLS
INSTALLING TRANSMITTER BATTERIES
This transmitter requires 4 AA batteries.
1.Removethe battery cover from the transmitter.
2.lnstall the batteries asshown.
3.lnstall the battery cover.
A\. CAUTION:If using rechargeable batteries, charge only rechargeable batteries.
~ Charging non-rechargeable batteries may cause the batteries to burst, resulting
in injury to persons and/or damage to property.
[J1\CAUTION:Riskofexplosionifbatteryisreplacedbyanincorrectiontype.
Dispose of used batteries according to national regulations.
BINDING
YOURTETRAXl COMESBOUNDAND READYTOOPERATE.INTHEEVENT
THATYOURVEHICLEDOESNOTRESPONDTOTHETRANSMITTER,FOLLOW
THEBINDINGINSTRUCTIONSBELOW.
1.PowerOFFthe ESC/Receiverand transmitter.
2.Connectafully charged battery to the ESC/Receiver.
I
3.Pressthe Bind button and power on the transmitter, LEDon transmitter
will f1ash.
4.Poweron the receiver.
5.ReceiverLEDf1ash,when it goes solid,indicating the bind issuccessful.
PA.~A. HOail'Y ·TETRA· INSTRUCTIONMANUAL

TRANSMITTERCONTROLS
STEERING RATES & STEERING TRIM (CH1)
Rates(dual rate) allow you to make adjustments to Steer-
ing, which allows you to accessa different rate by turning
The Trim function allows electronic adjustment or
center-ing of the steering servo to get the servo arm
exactly perpendicular to the servo,or in the exact
optimum desired position.
CHANGING THE THROTTLE LIMIT
L-Beginner Mode
Throttle limiting Switch: 30%
_/tj\, L~O?·
DIR CH1
L M H
• Bestfor learning the basicfunctions of left, right, stop, brake and reverse
• For use in smaller areas
• Longest battery life
M-Best Overall Performance
Throttle limiting Switch: 60%
• Great top speed and acceleration
• Easierto accelerate in desired direction, especially on loose surfaces when compared
to Maximum Speed setup
• Runtime isgreatly in creased over Maximum Speed setup with minimal impact to
speed
H-Maximum Speed
Throttle limiting Switch: 100%
• More capable of popping and holding wheelies
• Higher top speeds and maximum acceleration
PA.iWIA.HOIIIII' · TETRA· INSTRUCTIONMANUAL

MaintainingYourModel
Your model requires timely maintenance in order to stay in top running condition. The following
procedures should be taken very seriously.
Inspect the vehicle for obvious damage or wear. Look for:
1.Cracked, bent, or damaged parts
2.Check the wheels and steering for binding.
3.Check the operation of the shock absorbers.
4.Check the wiring for any frayed wires or loose connections.
5.Check the mounting of the receiver and servo(s) and speed control.
6.Check the tightness of the wheel nuts with a wrench.
7.Check the operation of the radio system, especially the condition of the batteries.
8.Check for any loose screws in the chassisstructure or suspension.
9. Inspect the gears for wear, broken teeth, or debris lodged between the teeth.
10.Check the tightness of the front pivot balls.
Motor: Every 10-15 runs, remove, clean, and lubricate the motor.Use a product such aselectric motor
cleaning spray to flush dirt out of the motor. After cleaning, lubricate the bushings at each end of the
motor with a drop of light-weight electric motor oil.
Chassis:Keep the chassisclean of accumulated dirt and grime. Periodically inspect the chassisfor
damage.
Shocks:Keep the oil level in the shocks full. Useonly 100%pure silicone shock oil to prolong the life of
the seals.Ifyou areexperiencing leakage around the top of the shock, inspect the bladder in the top
cap for signs of damage or distortion from overtightening. Ifthe bottom of the shock is leaking, then it
istime for a rebuild.
Suspension: Periodically inspect the model for signs of damage, such as bent or dirty suspension pins,
bent turnbuckles, loose screws,and any signs of stressor bending. Replacecomponents
asneeded.
Driveline: Inspect the driveline for signs of wear such asworn drive yokes, dirty axle half shafts,and any
unusual noise or binding. Remove the gear cover, inspect the spur gear for wear, and check the
tightness of set screws in the pinion gears.Tighten, clean, or replace components as needed.
Storage
When you are through running the model for the day, blow it off with compressed air or use a soft
bristled paint brush to dust off the vehicle. Always disconnect and remove the battery from the model
whenever the model is stored. Ifthe model will be stored for a long time, then also remove the batteries
from the transmitter.Keep this manual and the other documents included with your model for future
reference. Ifyou misplace your manual or any of the documents, they may be downloaded at
www.pandahobby.com.
~AiWJA iliJIIIII' · TETRA· INSTRUCTIONMANUAL

TROUBLESHOOTING
PROBLEM POSSIBLE CAUSE SOLUTION
Vehicle does Battery not charged or connected Charge battery, plug battery in,check connector
ESCswitch not ON TurnONESCswitch,usingyour ESCinstruction manual
not operate Transmitter low battery or not ON Replace batteries/Turn ON
Motor runs but Pinion not meshing with spur gear Adjust pinion/spur mesh
rearwheels Pinion spinning on motor shaft Replace pinion gear on motor
don't move Transmission gears stripped Replace transmission gears
Drive pin broken Check and replace drive pin
Steering does Servo plug not in receiver properly Plug servo in, check connector
Servo failure Replace or repair servo
not work Locked up steering linkage Freeup steering linkage
Won't turn in Servo gears damaged Replace servo
one direction
Motor plugs loose Plug motor in completely
Motor does Motor wire broken Repair or replace as needed
not run ESCout of adjustment/ES( damaged ResetESCusingyour ESCinstruction manual/ReplaceESC
Motor failure Replace motor
ESCgets hot Motor over-geared Usesmaller pinion or larqer spur qear on motor
Oriveline bound up Check wheels, suspension and transmission for binding
Poor run time Battery pack not fully charged Recharge battery
and/or sluggish Charger not allowing full charge Try another charger
acceleration Motor worn out Replace motor
Oriveline bound up Check wheels, transmission for binding
Poor range Transmitter batteries low Check and replace
and/or Vehicle battery low Recharqe or replace
glitching Loose plugs or wires Check all wire connections and plugs
Slipper won't Drive pin missing in shaft Replace drive pin
adjust Spur gear face worn out Replace spur gear and adjust slipper
Goes backwards Check throttle reversing switches on transmit-
when you pull the
trigger, or forward ter. Reset ESC.Using your transmitter manual
when pushing and ESCmanual
Goes ritt when
turning he wheel Check steering reversing switches on trans-
left(or left when mitter using your transmitter manual
turned right)
Reversehasa2secondsdelayoncethe vehicleisatacomplete
Reverseproblem No reverse stop.Makesureto testthis beforeresettingyour ESC
No reverseor brakes Resetyour ESC,or repair your ESC
PA.iVDAilOaal'. TETRA. INSTRUCTIONMANUAL

ASSEMBLYSTEPS
* FOR MAINTENANCE PURPOSES, OR TO REPLACEA DAMAGED PART,
THE FOLLOWING PAGES WILL GUIDE YOU THROUGH DIS-ASSEMBLY
AND ASSEMBLY.
,;t'IFront
lrr!&IFront Gear Box
/~,
C636002
Pinion Gear 12T
@
Ball Bearings
4x8x3mm
Button Head Hex
Screws 1.4x7mm
[!ElFront
Front Gear Box
C636077
Button Head Hex Screws 2x 10mm
C636051
Ball Bearings 4x8x3mm
C636053
Button Head Hex Screws l .4x7mm
Bushing
5x8x3mm
Button Head Hex
Screws 2xl 0mm
C636004
Front Axle Shaft
C636069 / ~
Bushing 5x8x3mm ~--··\!/
;_~--- I
@•·· ~ C636069
"'-- C636003 Bushing 5x8x3mm
Bevel Gear 24T
Pi:.i#DA HoaaJr. TETRA. INSTRUCTIONMANUAL

[!IJFront
FrontGear Box
Button Head Hex Screws
2x9mm
Button Head Hex Screws
2x8mm
Front
C636008
ower Shock Mount
ASSEMBLYSTEPS
C636056
Button Head Hex Screws 2x9mm
C636055
, , , , , ~- Button Head Hex Screws 2x8mm
'<> ~~
C636056 ~?
Button Head Hex Screws 2x9mm ~
C636009
Front Stub Axle C636054
C636070 .N---------------
Bush,ng ~
3x6x~~m ,'
FrontGear Box Button Head Hex Screws
2x6mm
C636070 ~
Bushing ,'
,,,,~ .
~ C636072
V ',, Pins l .5x5mm
@ ',,~ C636054
Button Head Hex Screws
2x6mm
_/,/~·
f /""'o"""'""""'
,: /
/
' C636054
Button Head Hex Screws 2x6mm
i~
0
C636054
Button Head Hex Screws
2x6mm
@
Bushing
3x6x2.5mm
Pins l .5x5mm
Button Head Hex Screws
2x6mm
i>Ai/DA Hoaair. TETRA. INSTRUCTIONMANUAL

ASSEMBLYSTEPS
[!IFront
~leeringServo C636057 i
IButton Head Hex Screws
2x5mm ----------
C636011 __
Servo Mount
'
' ' '
: : a:
' C> '
'
'
'
C636019 ° _--fGll
Servo Arm--~
I Front
• FrontSteeringTie-rod
'
'
'
'
~
C636057
Button Head Hex Screws
2x5mm
C636054
1~C636054
Button Head Hex Screws 2x6mm
Button Head Hex Screws 2~~
a.
Button Head Hex
Screws 2x6mm
C636012
Servo Mount Plate
~Ai#DA ilOBilJr · TETRA· INSTRUCTIONMANUAL
'
'
'
'
C636060
Pivot Balls 4x4mm
[]
Pivot Balls 4x4mm
a.
Button Head Hex
Screws 2x5mm
(J)mimmm
Button Head Hex
Screws 2x6mm

tiJiFront
SteeringServo
a.
Button Head Hex
Screws 2xl0mm
C636054
Button Head Hex
Screws 2x6mm
C636014
Steering link
(assembled with pivot balls)
0
ASSEMBLYSTEPS
C636060 C636061 C636060
Ball Studs M2 Pivot Balls
~·7
~e
'
'
Pivot Balls 4x4mm
Ball Studs M2
Button Head Hex
Screws 2x6mm
Pi:.i#Di:. HOlllll' · TETRA· INSTRUCTIONMANUAL

ASSEMBLYSTEPS
I • ~ ~~~! Drive Shaft
@------Pins 3x5mm
~
Pins l .5x8mm
@]
Pins 3x5mm
Iii]Rear
Rear Gear Box
Ball Bearings
4x8x3mm
a.
Button Head Hex
Screws l .4x7mm
C636051
Ball Bearings 4x8x3mm
C636053
Button Head Hex Screws l .4x7mm
Pi:.i#IJA Hoaair. TETRA. INSTRUCTIONMANUAL

ASSEMBLYSTEPS
IllRear
;ear Gear Box
Button Head Hex
Screws 2xl0mm
@
Bushing
5x8x3mm
!Iii Rear I
~£.ear Gear Box
g,\- -\ \
C636077
Button Head Hex
Screws 2xl0mm
~-L1
'' '
'' '
''
''
''
''
''
-C636056
Button Head Hex
Screws 2x9mm
m-m- »
·:' '\'
'' '
C636055 ~','
Button Head
Hex Screws
2x8mm
Button Head
Hex Screws
2x9mm
Button Head Hex C636055
Screws 2x8mm Button Head Hex
Screws 2x8mm
C636Q6g
Bushing
5x8x~
'
~36069
Bushing
5x8x3mm
C636056
Button Head Hex
Screws 2x9mm
'
Pi:.iWJi:.iliJl!ll!II' · TETRA· INSTRUCTIONMANUAL