Team Losi mini-baja User manual

Operation Manual
Thank you for choosing the Mini-Baja from Team Losi®. This
guide contains the basic instructions for operating your new
Mini-Baja. While the Mini-Baja is great for rst-time R/C drivers,
it does require some mechanical experience and/or parental
supervision for drivers under 12. It is critical that you read all
of the instructions in order to operate your model correctly and
avoid unnecessary damage. Please take a moment to look over
all the printed materials before operating your new Mini-Baja.

Page 2
Safety Precautions
This is a sophisticated radio controlled model that must be operated with caution and common sense. Failure to
operate your Mini-Baja in a safe and responsible manner could result in damage to the model and property. The
Mini-Baja is not intended for use by children without direct adult supervision. Team Losi and Horizon Hobby shall not
be liable for any loss or damages, whether direct, indirect, special, incidental, or consequential, arising from the use,
misuse, or abuse of this product or any product required to operate it.
• This model is controlled by a radio signal subject to interference from many sources outside your control. This
interference may cause momentary loss of control so it is advisable to always keep some distance in all directions
around your model as a safety margin to avoid collisions.
• Always operate your model in an open area away from cars, trafc and people.
• Avoid running your model in the street where damage can occur.
• Never run your Mini-Baja with low transmitter batteries.
• Carefully follow the directions and warnings for this and any optional
support equipment.
• Keep all chemicals, small parts and anything electrical out of the
reach of children.
Tools and Items You Will Find Handy
• Soft bristle brush for cleaning
• 5.5mm nut driver for the wheel nuts.
• #0 or #1 Phillips screwdriver
• LOSA99100 .050” Allen Wrench
Note: Use only Team Losi tools or other high quality tools. Use of inexpensive tools
can cause damage to the small screws and parts used on this type of model.
The Radio System
The following is an overview of the various functions and adjustments found on the Mini-Baja radio system. Since
the Mini-Baja operates on a radio signal you control, it is important for you to read and understand about all of these
functions and adjustments before driving.
The Receiver
1. Throttle Port: Where the Electronic Speed Control (ESC) plugs in.
2. Steering Port: Where the steering servo(s) plug in.
3. Frequency Selector Button: Used to program the desired frequency/channel.
4. Frequency Indicator Lights: Shows what frequency/channel is being received.
The Electronic Speed Controller (ESC)
5. On/Off Switch: Powers the receiver and ESC.
6. Setup Button and Indicator Light: Used for re-setting the ESC.
7. Battery Lead: Connects to the battery pack for power.
8. Motor Lead: Connects to the wire leads from the motor.
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Page 
Frequency/Channel Guide
Channel/Color Frequency LED Indicators
Ch. 1 (Brown) 26.095MHz Red (top) only
Ch. 2 (Red) 27.045MHz Yellow (middle) only
Ch.  (Orange) 27.095MHz Red & Yellow (top & middle)
Ch. 4 (Yellow) 27.145MHz Green (bottom) only
Ch. 5 (Green) 27.195MHz Red & Green (top and bottom)
Ch. 6 (Blue) 27.255MHz Yellow and green (middle and bottom)
Note: A frequency guide
sticker has been
factory-applied to
the back of the Mini-
Baja transmitter for
your convenience.
Changing Frequencies/Channels
The Mini-Baja radio operates on 27MHz and has 6 different frequencies—often referred to as “channels” available.
This allows you to operate without interference while up to 5 other models on 27MHz are also operating. Simply put,
a frequency is like a TV channel. The transmitter you hold in your hand is like the TV station and the receiver in the
Mini-Baja is like your TV at home that must be set to the correct channel to receive the signal your transmitter is
sending. Unlike most radio systems, the Mini-Baja features a “synthesized” system that does not require crystals to
be physically changed to select the channel you wish to operate on. Both the transmitter and the receiver must be set
to the same frequency/channel for the model to operate correctly. This can be easily checked by noting the colored
LED’s (lights) on the top of the receiver and the back of the transmitter. These should always be the same on both or
you will not have control of the model. Always program the transmitter rst then the receiver. To select a frequency,
follow the following easy steps.
1. Turn on the transmitter and/or receiver. Note: Both should display the same light(s).
2. Locate the frequency selector button.
. Press the selector button until the desired frequency light(s) are illuminated.
4. Repeat for the receiver if necessary.
5. Double-check to make sure both the transmitter and receiver have the same LED’s (lights) on.
The Transmitter
1. Steering Wheel: Controls direction (left/right) of the model.
2. Throttle Trigger: Controls speed and direction (forward/
reverse) of the model.
3. Antenna: Transmits signal to the model.
4. On/Off Switch: Turns the power on for the
transmitter operation.
5. Indicator Lights: Green (top) light indicates adequate battery
power. Red (bottom) light indicates signal strength.
6. Steering Trim (ST. TRIM): Adjusts the “hands off” direction
of the model.
7. Throttle Trim (TH. TRIM): Adjusts the motor speed to stop
at neutral.
8. Steering Rate: Adjusts amount front wheels move when the
steering wheel is turned left or right.
9. Steering Reverse Switch (ST. REV): Reverses the function
of the steering when the wheel is turned left or right.
10. Throttle Reverse Switch (TH. REV): Reverses the function
of the speed control when pulled back or pushed forward.
11. Bottom Cover: Covers and holds the batteries powering
the transmitter.
12. Frequency Indicator Lights: Shows the frequency/channel
you are on. The receiver must have a matching frequency/
channel to operate.
1. Frequency Select or Button: Used to choose 1 of 6
available 27MHz frequencies.
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Page 4
Slipper Adjustments
The Mini-Baja is equipped with a slipper device
offering both traction control and protection for
the transmission. The slipper is primarily used
to help absorb sudden impacts on the drive train
due to landing big jumps or when using more
powerful aftermarket motors and/or battery packs.
Additionally, it can be used to smooth out the ow of
power to the rear wheels and limit wheel spin when
running on extremely slick surfaces. Adjustment is
made by turning the 3mm adjustment nut clockwise
(to the right) to reduce the slip, or counterclockwise
(to the left) to increase the slip. When adjusted
properly, you should be able to hold the rear tires
rmly and barely be able to push the spur gear
forward with your thumb. To track test, turn the Mini-
Baja on and place it on the ground. As you push it
backwards allowing it to roll freely, punch the throttle.
The slipper should slip no more than an inch or two
as it accelerates. With the included motor and battery
pack it should slip just a little. Make sure you replace
the gear cover before running.
Resetting the ESC
The ESC comes from the factory pre-set and ready for use. If for some reason you should need to re-set the ESC, use
the following instructions.
1. Turn on the transmitter and ESC. Press the set-up button — both the RED and GREEN LEDs will come on.
2. Pull the throttle trigger all the way back (full speed) and press the set-up button once — only the GREEN LED will
come on.
. Push the throttle trigger full forward (brake/reverse) and push the set-up button once — only the RED LED will
come on.
4. Let the throttle trigger return to the neutral (center) position and press the set-up button once more to save the
program and exit set-up mode — only the GREEN LED will be on.
Notes:
A: If the receiver does not receive a signal from the Transmitter, the ESC will not enter the Program mode.
B: While in Program mode, the motor will not run.
C: If the set-up button is not pressed for 20 seconds while in the Program mode, the ESC will exit the Program mode
and the data will be saved.

Page 5
Steering Rate
Your transmitter is equipped with a steering rate control to the left of the steering wheel. This advanced feature,
usually found only on competition-type radios, allows you to adjust the amount the front tires move when you turn the
steering wheel. This is really helpful when you are on slick, as well as high traction, surfaces. If your Mini-Baja turns
too sharply and/or spins out easily, try turning the steering rate down by rotating the knob counterclockwise (to the
left). For sharper or additional steering, try turning the knob clockwise (to the right).
Camber
Camber is the angle of the tires to the racing surface when viewed from the front
or rear of the truck. You want to keep both the front and rear tires straight up
and down or leaning in at the top very slightly. If you are running on carpet or
similar high traction surfaces, you may nd leaning the tires in a bit more helps.
This adjustment is made with the threaded links extending from the front or rear
bulkhead to the spindle carrier or rear hub. Making the camber rods shorter
increases the camber and lean-in of the tire, while making the camber rods
longer decreases the camber.
Ride Height
This is the height the chassis sits and runs at. Spring spacers included with the Mini-Baja, when installed between the
shock top and spring, will increase the pre-load on the spring and raise the chassis. You may want to try this when
running on extremely rough surfaces.
Toe-In
This is the relationship of the left and right side tire to one another.
Ideally you want the front of the tires to be pointed inward toward
each other just slightly when viewed from above. This makes the
model track straight and stable. This is controlled with the threaded
steering rods on either side. As you make them longer you will
increase the toe-in and vice versa.
Chassis Tuning
The Mini-Baja has several adjustments available to you for tuning the performance for your needs. Although there are
multiple shock positions and camber link locations provided, as noted above we have built the model with the best
overall settings. The following are simple adjustments and easily maintained settings to assure proper operation and
performance. It is advised when making any adjustment you do so in small increments and always check for other
parts of the chassis that are affected.
Normal More Camber
Normal More Toe-In
Less Rate Full Rate

Page 6
Service/Repair
Radio/Speed Control & Motor
If you have any problems other than those covered in the troubleshooting section, please call the electronics service
department at (877) 504-02. They will be able to give your specic problem additional attention and instruct you as
to what needs to be done.
Chassis
If you have any questions other than those covered in the troubleshooting or maintenance sections, please call
(877) 504-02.
Cleaning
Performance can be hindered if dirt gets in any of the moving suspension parts. Use compressed air, a soft
paintbrush, or toothbrush to remove dust or dirt. Avoid using solvents or chemicals as they can actually wash dirt into
the bearings or moving parts as well as cause damage to the electronics.
Rebuilding the Differential
The gears in the differential will wear over time. The same is true for the outdrives, driveshafts, and rear axles. We
suggest using a small rag or paper towel to lay out the parts you remove to make it easier to reassemble.
Disassembly
1. Unplug the motor.
2. Remove the gear cover (three screws).
. Remove the motor guard screws at the top of the transmission and the two at the
extreme rear bottom of the chassis.
4. Remove the screw attaching the rear shock tower to the transmission and the four
screws at the bottom of the chassis holding the gearbox in place and slide it out of the
chassis
5. Remove the left side of the gearbox by removing the three screws.
6. Remove any shims on the bevel gears and set them aside so they can be reinstalled in
the same location.
7. Carefully remove the large plastic sun gear and the bevel gears on either side of it.
You can use the removed differential assembly as a guide for putting together the
replacement unit (a little Team Losi Teon grease #LOSA066 can
be applied for even better performance).
8. Remove the center mounted idler gear from the gearbox. Remove
the shaft and push out the ball bearings from either side. Install
these bearings in the new gear.
Reassembly
Replace the idler gear and shaft into the center of the same right side
of the gearbox. Replace any shims removed from the right bevel gear
and slide it through the lower bearing. Replace any shims that came
off of the left side bevel gear and allow it to slide through the lower
bearing as you put the left gear box half back into position. Replace
the screws and reinstall the rebuilt gearbox using the steps in reverse
order that were used to remove it.
Changing the Spur Gear
Remove the gear cover by removing the three small screws. If you are replacing the spur gear with one different size
(number of teeth), you must rst loosen (do not remove) the two screws that secure the motor and slide it back slightly.
Remove the mm nut at the end of the slipper shaft and all of the slipper parts on the outside of the spur gear as well
as the old gear. Place the new spur gear into position and replace the slipper parts. If you have changed the size of
the spur, see Setting the Gear Mesh on the following page. After you have changed the spur gear, you will have to
adjust the slipper as described elsewhere.

Page 7
Changing the Pinion Gear/Gear Ratio
Before you change the pinion gear ask yourself why you are doing it. In general, if you change to a larger pinion the
top speed will improve but you will see less acceleration and run time. This would only be advisable for really long
track layouts with few tight turns. Changing to a smaller pinion will give you quicker acceleration and possibly a bit
longer run time but a little less top speed. This would be good for short layouts or when running hotter motors. The
pinion on the Mini-Baja offers the best balance of both. To change the pinion, remove the gear cover, loosen the
motor screws, and slide the motor back. Use a pair of small needle-nose pliers between the motor plate and back of
the pinion to push the pinion off. Place the new pinion on the end of the motor shaft and, using the at of the pliers or
a similar at tool, push it on to the same position as the one removed. If you have changed the size of the spur, see
Setting the Gear Mesh below.
Warning: When running after-market motors, check with the motor manufacturer for correct gearing. Never over-gear
the motor as it can cause overheating, damaging it and the speed control.
Setting the Gear Mesh
The motor screws should be slightly loose. Slide the motor forward allowing the pinion gear
to mesh with the spur gear. Snug (not tight) the bottom motor screw and try rocking the spur
back and forth. There is a slight bit of movement before the motor is forced to turn over. If not,
pull the top of the motor back slightly and recheck. If there is too much slop between the gears,
push the top of the motor forward. When set properly the wheels can be spun forward freely
with very little noise. Make sure to tighten both motor screws and replace the gear cover before
running.
Radio Replacement/Service
If you have a radio problem please call (877) 504-02 for customer service. Most likely, unless you have gotten the
components wet, the service technician can help you x the problem over the phone. If the problem is more severe,
you may be asked to send in the truck and transmitter or the entire radio system, which would include the receiver/
speed control unit and steering servo. In some cases, like a broken servo or a speed control that has failed due to
getting wet, your local dealer can sell you the a replacement component. The following is complete guide to removing
the system.
Steering Servo
Unplug the servo lead from the receiver. Remove the four small screws that
secure the servo mount/chassis brace to the chassis. Use a screwdriver or small
pliers to pop the steering link off of the servo, so it can be removed. There is no
need to remove the servo mounts on either side as all service can be done with
them on. Replace in the reverse sequence used to remove it.
Receiver/Speed Control (ESC)
Unplug the power lead, motor leads and steering servo. Carefully remove the
antenna wire from the antenna tube. Do not attempt to open the receiver or
electronic speed control (ESC) as only a factory technician has the proper tools
and parts to make any repairs necessary. The receiver and ESC are mounted with double-sided foam tape. Use your
thumb and index nger at the bottom of the front corners to pull them from the mount. If this is difcult, ask for help. If
necessary, carefully use a large at blade screwdriver between the unit and the mount to pry it loose. Make sure you
remove any left over foam or adhesive before remounting with common servo tape or hobby type foam tape.
Service/Tech Help
[phone]

Page 8
Step 3
Remove the top E-clip from the
shock shaft. Remove the shock
piston. Remove second E-clip.
Remove the old cartridge.
Put a drop of oil on the shock
shaft before installing a new shock
cartridge.
Step 1
After removing the shock,
push up on the lower spring
cup and remove it from the
shaft. Remove the spring and
preload spacers.
Note: If you only wish to
change or ll the shock uid,
skip to step 6.
Step 2
Turn the shock upside down
and remove the black shock
cartridge/shaft assembly
from the shock body by
turning it counterclockwise.
Step 4
Reinstall the lower E-clip.
Slide the shock piston onto
the shock shaft against the
E-clip. Reinstall the top E-clip.
Step 7
Turn the shock over and use
a #0 Phillips screwdriver to
remove the small bleed screw
at the top of the shock. Slowly
push the shock shaft up until it
stops. Excess uid should ow
out of the bleed hole. Slowly
pull the shock shaft halfway
back and replace the bleed
screw. Use pliers to tighten
the cartridge, being careful not
to strip the plastics lobes on
the cartridge.
Step 5
If you plan on completely
changing the shock uid
(suggested), dump out the
old uid from the shock body.
Carefully ll the shock body
with uid to the bottom of the
threads inside the shock body.
Note: Your Mini-Baja comes
with 100wt shock uid from
the factory.
Step 6
Pull the shaft out so the
piston is next to the
cartridge and reinstall the
assembly into the shock
body, turn in a clockwise
direction until snug—DO NOT
TIGHTEN yet!
Step 8
Replace the spring and
spring cup and test the shock
action for smoothness and
leaks. Retighten the bleed
screw or cartridge if either
leaks. Remount the shock on
your truck.
** Production shock parts may differ from those shown in above drawings.
Rebuilding/Relling the Shocks
Rebuilding/Relling the Shocks