Vetta Karoo User manual

Product specifications are subject to change without notice. Due
to ongoing development, the actual product may vary from images
shown.
This product contains chemicals known to the State of California to
cause cancer, birth defects and other reproductive harm.
This product is not a toy! (14+) Recommended for ages 14 and up.
Adult supervision required for ages under 18 years old. Contains
small parts, keep out of reach of children 3 years of age and younger.
Distributed in the UK by:
MADE IN CHINA
J Perkins Distribution
Northdown Business Park
Ashford Road
Maidstone, Kent
ME17 2DL
England
[email protected]
To download the full Owner’s Manual & Technical
Information Guide, please visit www.vettaracing.com
Available in the U.S.A:
HobbyTown U.S.A

Legal
Before using your product, review all documentation and inspect the product
carefully. If for some reason you decide it is not what you wanted, then do
not continue with unpacking, setup or operation of your product. Your local
hobby dealer cannot accept a product for return or exchange after partaking
in actions that produce wear and tear.
Read, understand and follow all instructions and accompanying material
carefully before operating or assembling your product to prevent serious
damage. Failure to complete these tasks properly or intentional aversion to
the content will be considered abuse and/or neglect.
Product specifications are subject to change without notice. Due to ongoing
development, the actual product may vary from images shown.
This product contains chemicals known to the State of California to cause
cancer, birth defects and other reproductive harm.
This product is not a toy! (14+) Recommended for ages 14 and up. Adult
supervision required for ages under 18 years old. Contains small parts, keep
out of reach of children 3 years of age and younger.
Important Information
Important Information
Throughout this manual you will see different notes, cautions and warnings
to help alert you to important information about the section you are reading.
Please see below for the descriptions and what to look for to identify each
type.
WARNING: THIS INFORMATION IS IMPERATIVE FOR YOU TO
UNDERSTAND AND FOLLOW AS LACK OF COMPLIANCE WITH THE
CONTENTS OF THE WARNING
COULD CAUSE PERSONAL INJURY OR PROPERTY DAMAGE.
CAUTION: THIS INFORMATION IS IMPORTANT FOR YOU TO
UNDERSTAND AND FOLLOW AS LACK OF COMPLIANCE WITH THE
CONTENTS OF THE CAUTION COULD CAUSE DAMAGE TO YOUR
PRODUCT THAT IS NOT COVERED UNDER WARRANTY.
Note/Tip: This information is important for you to keep in mind, most
commonly used to recall previously given information or to direct you to, or
provide you with, additional information on a subject.
2

Contents
Notice.......................................................................................... 4
Precautions................................................................................. 4
Package Contents ...................................................................... 5
Needed to Complete .................................................................. 5
Introduction ................................................................................ 6
Features...................................................................................... 6
Getting Started........................................................................... 7
Charging.............................................................................7
Planet T3W Radio System ...................................................9
Wiring Schematic .....................................................................12
ESC Programming and Calibration..........................................12
General Care ............................................................................14
Maintenance ............................................................................14
Storage and Disposal ..............................................................18
Troubleshooting Guide.............................................................18
Troubleshooting Tables .......................................................19
Exploded Views.........................................................................21
Spare Parts List........................................................................26
3

Notice
Your product is factory calibrated and tested prior to final packaging, some
issues may arise during shipping and handling that can be easily be resolved at
home. For other adjustments it should be known that hobby grade radio controlled
products such as this differ from toy grade, in that they are intended to be
user-serviceable products where the user can program, disassemble and maintain
their own product. We try our best to ensure the information you need to introduce
you to this form of product ownership is available to you though this manual.
Please see the troubleshooting guide at the back of this manual for assistance in
resolving issues, either as they are experienced out of the box or as found
after regular use.
Note: Assuming your product functions properly as intended out of the box, the
best thing you can do is pay close attention to how it feels, sounds and functions.
This will help you identify problems later since you will have a reference of how the
product is supposed to perform.
If you require further information or assistance resolving a possible issue,
please consult the warranty card included with your product.
Precautions
Although great for first time users, this products is a advanced radio controlled vehicle
with sensitive electronics and moving parts capable of causing injury if used improperly.
Always use caution and common sense as failure to operate your product in a safe and
responsible manner can result in damage to the product or other properties. Therefore
this product is not intended for use or maintenance by children without direct adult
supervision. Vetta Racing and your hobby dealer 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 or maintain it.
WARNING: ALWAYS KEEP LOOSE CLOTHING, HAIR, TOOLS OR OTHER
MOVABLE OBJECTS AWAY FROM MOVING PARTS OF YOUR VEHICLE DURING
SETUP AND CONFIGURATION. SPINNING TIRES CAN EXPAND AND MAKE
CONTACT WITH SMALL TOOLS, OR HARDWARE AND SEND THEM FLYING AT
HIGH SPEEDS RISKING INJURY TO YOU OR OTHERS AROUND YOU.
• Your model can cause serious damage or injury so please use caution and
courtesy when operating your model.
• As a safety precaution, perform all transmitter and receiver adjustments
with all parts of the vehicle off the ground. This ensures the complete
control over the vehicle at all times during adjustments.
• Do not operate your model near traffic, bystanders, parking areas, or any
other area that could result in injury to people or damage to property.
• If at any time during the operation of your model you observe any erratic
or abnormal behavior of your model, immediately stop operation and
bring the model to a safe stop in a safe location to diagnose the problem.
• Always power on your transmitter before turning your vehicle on.
4

• If you have little or no experience operating R/C models, we strongly
recommend you seek the assistance of your local hobby dealer.
• Do not expose the transmitter to water or excessive moisture.
• Do not operate radio controlled products in a lightning or thunder storm.
• Ensure your batteries (both Tx and vehicle) are charged before each use.
• Check all servos and electrical connections prior to each use.
• Use caution when handling your vehicle after use as electronics may get
HOT and could cause a burn if handled carelessly.
• Always allow the motor in your vehicle to cool completely before using it
again.
R/C models are an extremely fun hobby, but safety should never be ignored
or taken lightly. Always take caution when operating your model as damage
to property and injury can result from careless operation. Please consult
your local hobby dealer with any questions or troubleshooting issues. And
of course don’t forget to have fun, you deserve it after reading through all of
these safety tips!
Package Contents
• 1 x Vetta Karoo Desert Truck
• 1 x Planet TSW 2.4GHz 3-channel transmitter
• 1 x Rechargeable 7-cell 8.4V 1800mAh NiMH battery
• 1 x Mains charger
Items Needed to Complete and Enjoy
• 4 x AA alkaline batteries for the transmitter
5

Features
• 100% factory assembled and ready to run.
• All-weather electronics.
• Heavy duty 550 brushed 21T motor and 40 amp ESC.
• 2S LiPo compatible.
• 6 link rear axle
• Adjustable, oil filled, coil-over shock absorbers.
• Impact resistant composite construction is strong, durable,
and lightweight.
• Scale appearance bumper and visible LED light rail.
• Toolless battery strap for easy battery installation and
removal.
• Non integrated electronic components.
Introduction
The Vetta Karoo has been based on the Desert racing trucks of the modern world.
You’ve only got to look and you can see the efforts put into the details of making
this as scale as possible, from the open windows and the internal roll cage, to the 6
point rear axle and LED bumper light rail. At the heart of this desert racer is a high
capacity rechargeable 1800 mah 8.4 volt NiMH battery pack coupled to a 40A ESC,
this drives the premium heavy duty 21T 550 brushed motor giving you a well
controlled positive power transfer to the 4WD system. Designed with the toughest
terrain in mind the independent suspension, fully adjustable oil-filled threaded
shocks and all-terrain high traction tires just soak up the punishment.
The Karoo is guided by our high resolution Planet T3W 3-channel transmitter.
Whether you’re mud slogging, desert racing, or high jumping, the Karoo just keeps
you wanting more.
6

Getting Started
Below are some steps to help get started right away and most applicable
to those who have used RC products before. Please read through the manual to acquaint
yourself with the latest procedures, Warnings and Cautions.
Charging
• Never leave the battery unattended while charging and never operate the
charger without adult supervision.
• Never charge a warm battery, always allow the battery to cool to room
temperature before charging.
• Always use a fire-proof charge bag when charging/discharging LiPo
batteries
• Never drop the charger or battery and do not charge a damaged battery.
• Inspect the battery and charger before use. Never use a battery or
charger if the wire or connector has been damaged or if the battery has
experienced a short.
• Incorrect use of the battery, connections, or charging equipment can cause
personal injury or property damage.
• Never allow batteries or charger to come in contact with moisture at any
time.
• Stop charging immediately if the battery or charger becomes hot or
changes form during use.
Remove the four body clips from
the car and lift the body clear.
Locate the battery cradle at the
back of the car, release the hook
and loop tape and withdraw the
battery pack.
7

LiPo compatibility
WARNING: WHEN USING LIPO BATTERIES, ONLY USE CHARGERS DESIGNED
FOR USE WITH LIPO BATTERIES FOR THE RC INDUSTRY THAT ENABLE BALANCE
CHARGING AND USE THE SUPPLIED CONNECTOR. USE OF OTHER (NON-RC
SPECIFIC) CHARGERS OR CONNECTORS CAN CAUSE CATASTROPHIC FALURES AND
CAN PERMANENTLY DAMAGE YOUR BATTERY AND/OR CONNECTED EQUIPMENT.
THIS PRODUCT IS NOT A TOY AND SHOULD NOT BE CHARGED, OPERATED, OR
MAINTAINED WITHOUT SUPERVISION OF AN ADULT.
If you have chosen to upgrade to a 2S LiPo battery please use and charge in accordance with
the guidelines supplied with the battery. LiPo batteries are sensitive to the charge current and,
as such, it should be chosen with care.
• The battery pack must have a compatible HCT plug, or use an adapter that
includes high current connectors.
• You can use a suitable LiPo battery pack, however you must change the
LVC (Low Voltage Cut-off) on the ESC
Re-insert the fully charged battery
pack into the cradle and tightly
secure it with the hook and loop
straps.
Ensure the radio switch is in the
OFF position, then connect the
battery to the ESC.
Plug the charger into a wall
socket, connect the battery to the
charger and place the battery on
a non-flammable surface. Switch
the wall socket ON noting that
a fully discharged battery will
be charged in approximately 3
hours. Periodically monitor the
temperature of the battery when
charging and disconnect if it
exceeds 120°F (49°C). Unplug
the battery when charged.
8

Familiarize yourself with your Planet T3W radio system
Functions include servo reversing on both primary channels, steering dual rate, throttle trim,
steering trim, throttle end point adjustment. It also has a low voltage warning, LED status light,
optional charge socket and a switched third channel.
Features
• A simple to operate single model memory transmitter and receiver
• 2.4GHz operation avoids conflicts with other users
• Proportional steering and throttle control
• Rotary steering and throttle trims
• End point adjust on channel 2
• Handy, switched third channel for ancillary controls
• Adjustable steering rate - perfect for reducing the steering sensitivity for
younger or new drivers
Specifications
Memory Single model memory
Tx Batteries 4 x AA
Tx Length 165mm (5.8in)
Tx Height 215mm (11.07in)
Tx Width 90mm (5.05in)
Tx Weight 282g (0.62lb) without batteries
Remove the battery cover from the
underside of the T3W transmitter.
Insert four AA alkaline cells -
ensuring correct polarity - then
replace the battery cover.
Switch ON your Planet T3W
transmitter and ensure the LED is
lit solid red and that no alarms are
audible. Ensure that the CH2 EPA
dials are turned fully clockwise and
that the D/R (steering rate) dial is
centered. Ensure, also, that the CH1
and CH2 (trim) dials are centered
at zero.
LED
CH2 EPA
D/R
Ch1 / 2
Trim
ON / OFF
9

Check the operation of the
throttle and steering. Pulling the
throttle trigger back will drive the
car forward, pushing the trigger
forward once will apply the brakes
while pushing the trigger forward
twice will drive the car in reverse.
Turning the wheel to the right will
cause the car to turn right and
vice versa.
Use the throttle CH1 and steering
trim Ch2 dials to fine-tune the
controls of your car. In doing so,
ensure that your Karoo Desert Truck
tracks in a straight line. Also
that it doesn’t creep forwards or
backwards at zero throttle.
Replace the body and secure it
with the four body clips.
IMPORTANT: When running your Karoo Desert Truck vehicle with the supplied
NiMH battery, the run time should be in excess of 5 minutes. If your run time
is significantly shorter than this (and no physical damage has been incurred –
say in a crash or impact – that may be causing components to bind) then it is
worth checking that the ESC has the correct NiMH battery LVC setting.
Confirm that the LVC (Low Voltage Cutoff) point has been correctly set for
NiMH and not for LiPo or other lithium chemistry battery. The proceedure for
checking or setting the LVC for NiMH batteries is coverered in the ESC
settings.
Throttle
Forward
Break
Reverse
Left Right
CH1
CH2
Locate the switch and turn ON
your Karoo Desert Truck. In the
unlikely event that the car does
not operate, see the PAIRING /
BINDING instructions at the back
of this guide.
10

1Remove the body, install a fully
charged battery into the car, then
connect it to the ESC. Ensure that
the car is powered OFF.
2Locate the receiver box and, using
a 2mm hex driver, remove the
protective cover.
3
5
4
Place your Karoo Desert Truck and
T3W transmitter in close proximity but
not less than 12” (300mm) apart.
Press and hold the PAIR / BIND
button on the transmitter then
switch the transmitter on. Release
the PAIR / BIND button only when
the transmitter’s LED begins
flashing.
Press and hold the PAIR / BIND
button on the receiver then switch
the receiver on. The receiver’s
LED will flash to indicate that it is
in PAIR / BIND mode.
300mm
PAIR/BIND Button
Pairing The Transmitter
If you are experiencing difficulty in getting the radio to talk to the car and have checked the
trouble shooting table you may need to Pair the radio. Please follow the steps below.
11

When the LED on the receiver
lights solid red your Planet T3W
transmitter and Karoo will
be bound. You will now have full
control of throttle and steering.
Vetta 40A ESC Programming and Calibration
Input voltage: 5 - 6 cell NiMH / NiCd; 2S LiPo
Current: 40A
BEC Output: 5.6V / 2A
Size: 30 x 28 x 22mm
Weight: 38g
Product Features
1. Low voltage protection
2. Overheat protection
3. Crawler Mode
4. Beginner Mode
Wiring Schematic
Before configuring / programming your ESC use the following guide to
check the LVC /Overheat Protection settings and the Crawler / Practice
Mode settings: Check the settings for LVC / Overheat Protection
1. Power ON the T3W transmitter then power ON the ESC and listen to the
beeps / notes that are emitted.
2. If LVC / Overheat Protection is already set to OFF (unprotected) the
ESC will beep once then play three notes, This setting is for NiMh.
Power
Switch
Set
Button
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3. If LVC / Overheat Protection is already set to ON (protected) the ESC will beep twice
then play three notes. This setting is for LiPo.
4. Power OFF the ESC then power OFF the T3W transmitter.
Check the settings for Crawler Mode and Practice Mode
1. Power ON the T3W transmitter then power ON the ESC and listen to the beeps / notes
that are emitted and pay attention to the LED light.
2. If Practice Mode is already set to ON the ESC will beep twice, play three notes and the
LED will flash slowly.
3. If Crawler Mode is already set to ON the ESC will beep twice, play three notes and the
LED will glow solid.
4. Power OFF the ESC then power OFF the T3W transmitter
Having established the presets use the following guide to make the changes you require:
Resetting the LVC / Overheat Protection
When changing settings note that each time you press the SET button to make an
alteration the ESC will switch between the two, i.e. LVC / Overheat Protection ON to LVC /
Overheat Protection OFF, then back to ON again.
1. Power ON the T3W transmitter then press the ESC SET button and power ON the ESC.
Listen to the beeps / notes that are emitted.
2. If the ESC beeps once LVC / Overheat Protection will be set to OFF (unprotected). You
can now release the SET button.
3. If the ESC beeps twice LVC / Overheat Protected will be set to ON (protected). You can
now release the SET button.
Resetting Crawler Mode and Practice Mode
1 Power ON the T3W transmitter then power ON the ESC. Press and hold the ESC SET
button for 2 seconds.
2. The ESC will beep once before releasing the button to confirm that Practice Mode is
active.
3. The ESC will beep twice before releasing the button to confirm that Crawler Mode is
active.
WARNING: ALWAYS ALLOW YOUR MOTOR TO COOL BETWEEN RUNS. EXCESSIVE
ACCELERATION AND AGGRESSIVE DRIVING WILL CAUSE YOUR SYSTEM TO GET
HOT. EXERCISE GREAT CARE WHEN HANDLING YOUR VEHICLE AFTER RUNNING
TO AVOID GETTING BURNED.
13

General Care
• Always use clean, dry cloth or soft bristle brush to clean your equipment.
• Never use chemical cleansers to avoid damage to the sensitive electronics and
plastics
Maintenance
We want you to enjoy your product to its fullest potential. For this to happen
it is important to keep your product clean and properly maintained. Lack
of cleaning and maintenance can cause component failure. For best and
continued performance from your product it is recommended to briefly
inspect your product for damage every few uses. Typically, a good time to
do this is when changing the battery in your vehicle or while it is charging.
If a problem is discovered, stop use immediately and perform repairs or
seek assistance. Continued use of failed components can cause more
unnecessary damage to your product.
ESC and Servo
The ESC and servo included in your vehicle are rated for all weather use. It
is recommended that you avoid submersion of the vehicle however running
in puddles, rain and snow should not cause damage. Always remove excess water/
snow from your vehicle after running to help prevent corrosion. Using an air
compressor is effective but please use eye protection.
Transmitter
Although the receiver included with your radio system is rated for all weather
use, the transmitter is not. The transmitter should not be used in the rain or
other wet environment to avoid damage to the sensitive electronics.
• Clean dirt and debris off of your transmitter regularly to avoid the
consequences of these getting into the sensitive electronics where they
can cause short circuits and/or restrict motion of the internal steering
and throttle mechanisms.
• Ensure the antenna is kept in proper working order. The transmitter is not
safe to use with a broken or missing antenna.
Receiver
Although the receiver included with your radio system is rated for all weather
use, it is recommended that you avoid submersion of the receiver, however
running in puddles, rain, and snow is okay.
To achieve full operating range with your radio system, it is critical that the receiver
antenna be installed properly and undamaged.
• Inspect any exposed antenna for cuts or abrasions.
• Ensure there are no kinks in the antenna or antenna tube.
• Never fold the end of the antenna over the tube, this will reduce the
range and damage the antenna.
14

• Ensure the antenna is not being pinched by the set screw that holds the
antenna tube in place.
Gears
Periodically remove the gear cover to clearly inspect the gears and ensure
there is no debris in the gear compartment.
Proper gear mesh setting is crucial for proper operation and life of gears in
your product. It is important to have the pinion gear (attached to motor) as
close to the spur gear (attached to drive shaft) as possible yet while providing
a minimal amount of backlash. Backlash is the rotation one gear has to make
before contacting the other. Having the gear mesh set too tight will cause
excess load on the electrical components and may cause premature failure.
Having gear mesh set too loose will cause excess wear and possible skipping
of teeth during operation thus causing excess wear and premature failure.
Checking The Gear Mesh
1. Remove the gear cover
2.The gear mesh is not adjustable on the Karoo as it has a fixed motor mount.
However the motor sometimes can be installed un centred. We recommend when
removing and installing the motor you make sure it runs parallel with the centre drive
shaft.
Warning - The Karoo runs a 17T pinion so when installing the motor it is imperative it is
not pushed up against the centre drive shaft.
WARNING: NEVER OPERATE YOUR VEHICLE WITH THE SPUR GEAR COVER
REMOVED. SEVERE INJURY, DAMAGE TO ELECTRICAL COMPONENTS, AND
EXCESSIVE WEAR AND TEAR ON DRIVETRAIN MAY RESULT.
15

Shocks
Periodically inspect the shocks for smooth motion, leaking oil and dirt residue
build up around the shaft or caps. Do not allow dirt to build up around the
shock shaft and bottom of the shock. Doing so will reduce the life of the
shock and cause a shock to leak oil. Be sure to clean the shocks regularly
with a clean and dry soft bristle brush and/or rag.
CAUTION: NEVER USE SPRAY CLEANERS TO CLEAN YOUR SHOCKS, DOING
SO CAN CAUSE DAMAGE TO THE SEALS, CAUSING THEM TO LEAK MORE AND
REDUCE THE LIFE AND PERFORMANCE OF YOUR SHOCKS.
Signs to look out for determining if your shock needs to be maintained or
rebuilt.
• Oil around the shaft means the oil leaked from inside and needs to be
replaced.
• Persistent oil around the shock shaft or lower portion of the shock
typically points to damaged O-rings which will need replacing. See your
local hobby dealer for replacement parts.
Refilling your shocks:
1. Remove shock from vehicle, remove spring and top cap. Remove the
bleed screw from the cap.
2. With shock shaft extended, add oil to top of body (use only 100% silicone
oil) and reinstall the shock cap. Be sure the o-ring stays “seated” and
does not squeeze out.
3. Slowly compress the shock shaft 100% of travel using a towel or paper
napkin to clean up overflowed oil, then reinstall the bleed screw. Do not
over-tighten.
4. Check for free motion of shock. If the shock feels like it gets stiffer at the
end of compression, there is too much oil or air. Compress the shaft and
remove the bleed screw slowly to allow excess air/oil to come out, then
reinstall the screw.
5. It is normal for the shock to rebound (with the spring removed) after full
compression and release.
Replacing the O-rings:
• Disassemble shock and remove shock end and shaft from the body.
• Carefully remove lower cap by unscrewing from the shock body.
16

• Remove the O-ring and spacer and replace with genuine replacement
parts.
• Re-assemble the shock following the refilling instructions above.
Tires and Wheels
Inspect the tires to ensure they have adequate tread and they are properly
glued to the wheels. The tires on your vehicle come pre-glued from the
factory; however after running your vehicle it is possible for the glue to come
loose in some areas.
• To reattach the tire to the wheel, use hobby grade Cyanoacrylate (CA)
glue and apply small amounts (one drop at a time) between the tire and
wheel. Allow the glue to fully dry before operating your vehicle.
• When reinstalling tires, use caution when tightening the nuts that secure
the wheels to the vehicle. Ensure the wheels rotate freely but don’t
wobble excessively. Over tightening the wheels may cause excess strain
on the electrical and mechanical components of your vehicle. Operating
your vehicle under these conditions will void your warranty.
• Taking the above into consideration, leaving wheels too loose can cause
them to strip. It is recommended to check that the wheel nuts are tight
every time you run your vehicle.
• Consequently running your vehicle will cause the tires to eventually wear
out. Be sure to obtain and use genuine replacement parts from your local
hobby dealer when necessary.
General Wear and Tear
Using your vehicle will cause general wear and tear which is not covered
under warranty yet may necessitate replacement of components. Continued
operation of your product with worn components may cause continued
damage to other components.
Be sure to regularly inspect your vehicle and accessories for excess wear and
damaged components.
Storage and Disposal
Storage
• Always store all equipment in a cool dry place when not in use.
• Always disconnect the batteries before storage.
• Never store the transmitter or receiver in direct sunlight for extended
periods of time.
• Never store the transmitter with batteries installed for extended periods
of time. Doing so may allow the batteries to leak and cause permanent
damage to the transmitter.
• Always disconnect electrical connections after use in wet environments.
Allowing the contacts to dry will reduce corrosion.
17

Disposal
Your product is considered electronic waste and should never be discarded
in standard garbage containers. Please visit your local hobby dealer (and
some home improvement centers) and use the FREE battery disposal center
for proper disposal/recycling. Consult your local city hall for information on
recycling other electronic waste.
Troubleshooting Guide
Before contacting customer support, recall that this is a hobby grade product
intended to be user serviceable. Please take the time to fully inspect your
product for any obvious causes to the issues you are experiencing. Below are
some of the most common issues experienced. Many control issues can be
resolved by simply re-pairing the transmitter and receiver, always start here.
• Dead transmitter or vehicle batteries will cause the product to
malfunction and not work properly. As with TV remote controls in your
home, if the batteries are dead, they don’t work. Start power related
troubleshooting with fresh batteries in the transmitter and recharged
batteries in the vehicle.
• Power connections between the Battery, ESC and receiver are critical to
the performance of the product. Running in various debris may cause
foreign objects to snag on wires, causing connections to come loose. It
is a good idea to unplug and reconnect motor and battery connections
when beginning power related troubleshooting. Also inspect for any
damage caused to the antenna.
• Drivetrain issues can mask themselves as power related. Fully inspect
the wheels, driveshafts, and motor for foreign objects that may have
become tangled or wrapped around the spinning parts of the drivetrain.
Small objects like fishing line for example, can wrap around a drive shaft,
overheat and melt due to the friction and cause the entire drivetrain to
lock up. Although a big problem, it can be difficult to see when inspecting.
Always remove the wheels from your vehicle when troubleshooting
drivetrain related issues.
• Inspect around the steering components to ensure no debris is
preventing normal steering operation.
• Steering can become sluggish once components get dirty or “take a set”
after running. Inspect the rod ends of the turnbuckles to ensure they are
properly aligned and not binding. You should be able to grab a turnbuckle
with your fingers and rotate it easily.
• Healthy gears are crucial to a properly functioning vehicle. If you hear
your vehicle making very loud noises, you should immediately stop and
check the gears for foreign debris. Even a small pebble can get lodged
into the teeth of the pinion gear, which would practically destroy the spur
gear in a very short period of time.
18

Problem /
Symptom Possible Cause Possible Solution
Vehicle will not
turn on
Battery voltage too low Charge battery
Battery not connected Re/connect battery
Batteries dead in car or transmitter Replace batteries
Damaged battery Replace battery
Transmitter will not
turn on
Battery voltage too low Charge or change batteries
Battery/ies installed improperly Correct installation
Short radio range
(Vehicle stops
responding to
transmitter at short
distanced)
Damaged or improperly installed
receiver and antenna
Check receiver antenna for damage.
Ensure antenna is properly installed in
tube and mount, extending perpendicular
from the ground. Ensure all connections
are secure
Receiver is malfunctioning Replace Receiver
Battery voltage too low Replace or recharge batteries in
transmitter and vehicle
Steering not
responding as
expected
Trim not set properly Adjust steering trim
Screws too tight on steering parts Adjust screws to allow for free motion
Fasteners have become loose Check and tighten all fasteners to as new
condition, be careful to not over tighten
Vehicle not respond-
ing as expected to
transmitter
Trims not set properly Adjust throttle and/or steering trim
Radio system lost bind Re-bind radio system
Bad electrical connections Check motor and battery plugs to ensure
they are fully connected
Wheels twitch while
vehicle is idle
(controls
at neutral)
Transmitter too close to receiver
(<1m) Increase distance between the units
Receiver wire damaged Inspect antenna for damage and replace
if necessary
Receiver antenna not installed in
vertical position
Install in mount with care to not damage
antenna wire
Troubleshooting Tables
19

Problem /
Symptom Possible Cause Possible Solution
Steering will not
trim straight,
always has right
bias
Binding in steering system Inspect and correct any binding components or
loosen screws if over tight
Side wheels too tight Check and adjust wheel nuts on the right side of
the vehicle to ensure the wheels are not too tight
Vehicle top speed
and acceleration
is slow
Battery voltage too low Charge battery
Drivetrain has too much friction Check for debris/excessive wear on gears, inspect
bearings
Gear mesh too tight Loosen gear mesh
Pinion gear is loose Check and tighten set screw on motor pinion
Differential broken
Check differential and ensure the outdrives are
secured and gears intact. You should not be able to
pull them out
Drive pin missing Check for missing wheel pins (behind wheel hexes),
or dogbone pins
Wheels not spin-
ning freely
Wheels too tight Check and adjust wheel nuts
Differentials stripped Check differentials and replace/repair if necessary
Battery charge
stops lasting as
long as it used to
The battery has become old Replace battery
Battery not charged completely
due to insufficient charge time
Charge for longer period of time or try a peak de-
tection charger.
Gear mesh too tight Check and reset gear mesh setting
Charger, battery, wires, or plug
has malfunctioned
Check all connections and wires for damage or
excessive wear and replace if necessary
Shocks and/or
arms covered
in oil
Shock O-ring seals are worn Replace O-rings and refill shock with oil
Top shock cap too loose or over
tightened Check tightness (finger tight), refill shock oil
Bottom shock cap dislodged Check installation, refill shock oil
Spur gears strip-
ping
Gear mesh too loose Tighten gear mesh for proper backlash
Fasteners loose or missing Check for loose fasteners on spur gear mount and
ensure all E-clips are in place
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