LeapFrog 4809 User Manual

MODEL 4809

owners manual

Before You

3

Proceed

Safety

4

Precautions

Tools, Supplies

5

and Required
Equipment

Anatomy of

6

Your Nitro 4-Tec

Quick Start:

7

Getting Up
to Speed

Decorating and

8

Installing your
Nitro 4-Tec Body

The Traxxas

9

TQ Radio System

The TRX 3.3

17

Racing Engine

Driving Your

32

Nitro 4-Tec

Adjusting Your

33

Nitro 4-Tec

Maintaining

36

and Storing
Your Nitro 4-Tec

Introduction

Thank you for purchasing the Traxxas Nitro 4-Tec 3.3™all-wheel-drive
nitro supercar. The Nitro 4-Tec 3.3 was designed to deliver extreme
power for expert drivers. It is the most powerful Ready-To-Race
wheel-drive nitro supercar ever conceived. The incredible TRX 3.3
Racing Engine is bigger, faster, and puts out a whopping 60% more
peak horsepower compared to the legendary, award-winning TRX 2.5.

Relentless horsepower and the lightweight Nitro 4-Tec 3.3 platform
combine for a driving experience that is like no other. The explosive
acceleration and extreme top speed are intended to test the reflexes
of only the most skilled and experienced drivers. The broad linear
power output of TRX 3.3 Racing Engine delivers responsive,
pavement-burning power at almost any speed.

Nitro 4-Tec 3.3 is made to be a complete package that starts with the
highest level of engineering; a professionally produced DVD to
acquaint you with the starting, racing, and maintenance procedures;
and is equipped stock with the most powerful Ready-To-Race
smallblock engine available. We want you to feel confident that you
own the best performing car in the market and that it is backed by a
team of professionals who aim to provide the highest level of factory
support possible. Nitro 4-Tec 3.3 is about experiencing total
performance and satisfaction, not just with your car, but also with the
company that stands behind it.

Thank you again for going with Traxxas. We work hard every day to
assure you the highest level of customer satisfaction possible. We
truly want you to enjoy your new Nitro 4-Tec 3.3!

®

all-

®

Traxxas Support

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

Quick Start

This manual is designed with a Quick Start path
that covers only the necessary procedures to get your model
up and running in the shortest time possible. If you are an
experienced R/C enthusiast you will find it helpful and fast.
Be sure and read through the rest of the manual to learn
about important safety, maintenance, and adjustment
procedures. Turn to page 7 to begin.

We know you’re excited about getting your new Nitro 4-Tec 3.3 on
the road, but it’s very important that you take some time to read
through the Owners Manual. This manual contains all the necessary
set-up, break-in, tuning, and operating procedures that allow you to
unlock the incredible performance and adjustment potential that
Traxxas engineers designed into Nitro 4-Tec 3.3.

Even if you are an
experienced R/C enthusiast, it’s important to read and follow the
procedures in this manual. Nitro 4-Tec 3.3 contains new
technologies in the engine, suspension, and transmission
operation that you may not be familiar with. Pay particular
attention to the fuel and break-in requirements for the engine.

The advanced design of the TRX 3.3 Racing Engine has a special
break-in procedure that has been developed and proven to
produce the best-performing engine possible. Using traditional
or old-fashioned procedures could reduce engine performance
and longevity.

Troubleshooting

38

Index

40

2•Nitro 4-Tec 3.3

Before You Proceed

Carefully read and follow all instructions in this and any accompanying
materials to prevent serious damage to your Nitro 4-Tec 3.3. Failure to
follow these instructions will be considered abuse and/or neglect.

WARNING! NOT A TOY! Read carefully! This product is capable of
extreme speed and acceleration! It is intended for expert drivers only.
Experience with nitro-powered radio controlled models is required.
The driver must exercise all caution and accept full responsibility for
their own safety, and the safety of others nearby. Full-speed operation
requires a large, smooth running area free of obstacles and closed off
to pedestrian and automobile traffic. This product is not designed for
children under 16. Responsible adult supervision is required during
operation and maintenance. For outdoor use only.

Nitro 4-Tec 3.3 is very fast and carries our highest skill level rating of 5
(Expert. For experienced drivers only!). Prior experience with R/C models
is required. Nitro 4-Tec 3.3 is a high-performance model which is NOT
intended for use on public roads or in congested areas where its
operation may conflict with or disrupt pedestrian or vehicular traffic. Read
all enclosed information before operating. Fully illustrated, step-by-step
instructions describe adjustment and required maintenance procedures.
Nitro 4-Tec 3.3 should not be operated in a crowd, indoors or without
adequate space and ventilation. The vehicle is fully assembled, ready-to­run, and requires the following items for operation: 12 AA alkaline
batteries, model car fuel, a 7.2 volt rechargeable battery pack, and a
charger. These items are available from your hobby dealer. In an effort to
continually upgrade our products, Traxxas reserves the right to make
improvements and modifications to this model, which may not be
reflected in the photographs and specifications printed in this manual.

Before running your Nitro 4-Tec 3.3, look over this entire manual and
examine the car carefully. If for some reason you decide Nitro 4-Tec 3.3 is
not what you wanted, then do not continue any further. Your hobby
dealer absolutely cannot accept a Nitro 4-Tec 3.3 for return or exchange
after it has been run.

Warnings, helpful hints, & cross-references

Throughout this manual, you’ll notice warnings and helpful hints
identified by the icons below. Be sure to read them!

An important warning about personal safety or avoiding
damage to your Nitro 4-Tec 3.3 and related components.

Special advice from Traxxas to make things easier and more fun.

Refers you to a page with a related topic.

Support

If you have any questions about your Nitro 4-Tec 3.3 or its operation,
call the Traxxas Technical Support line toll-free at:

1-888-TRAXXAS (1-888-872-9927)

Technical support is available Monday through Friday from 8:30am
to 9:00pm central time. Technical assistance is also available at
www.Traxxas.com. You may also e-mail customer support with your
question at

[e-mail]. Join thousands of registered

members in our online community at Traxxas.com.

Traxxas offers a full-service, on-site repair facility to handle any of
your Traxxas service needs. Maintenance and replacement parts
may be purchased directly from Traxxas by phone or online at
www.BuyTraxxas.com. You can save time, along with shipping and
handling costs, by purchasing replacement parts from your local dealer.

Do not hesitate to contact us with any of your product support needs.
We want you to be thoroughly satisfied with your new Nitro 4-Tec 3.3!

*

Traxxas
1100 Klein Road
Plano, Texas 75074
Phone: [phone]
Toll-free 1-888-TRAXXAS

Traxxas U.K.
P.O. Box 1128
Winterbourne, Bristol BS36-2SH
England
Phone: [phone]

Internet
www.Traxxas.com
E-mail: [e-mail]

Entire contents ©2006 Traxxas.
Traxxas, Nitro 4-Tec, TRX 3.3
Racing Engine, TQ, Top Fuel,
EZ-Start, Ready-To-Race, Ready­To-Win, and ProGraphix are
trademarks or registered
trademarks of Traxxas. Other
brand names and marks are the
property of their respective
holders and are used only for
purposes of identification. No
part of this manual may be
reproduced or distributed in
print or electronic media without
the express written permission
of Traxxas.

*Toll-free support is available to U.S. residents only.

Nitro 4-Tec 3.3 •3

Safety Precautions

All instructions and
precautions outlined in
this manual should be
strictly followed to ensure
safe operation of your
Nitro 4-Tec 3.3.

Nitro 4-Tec 3.3 is not intended
for use by children under 16
years of age without the
supervision of a responsible
and knowledgeable adult.

Not a Toy! For Expert Drivers
Only! This product is capable
of extreme speed and
acceleration! It carries our
highest skill level rating (5)
and is intended for expert
drivers only. Experience with
nitro-powered radio controlled
models is required. The driver
must exercise all caution and
accept full responsibility for
their own safety, and the
safety of others nearby.
Full-speed operation requires
a large, smooth running area
free of obstacles and closed
off to pedestrian and
automobile traffic.

All of us at Traxxas want you to safely enjoy your new Nitro 4-Tec 3.3.
Operate your Nitro 4-Tec sensibly and with care, and it will be exciting,
safe, and fun for you and those around you. Failure to operate your Nitro
4-Tec 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

This product is capable of extreme speed and acceleration! It is
intended for expert drivers only. Experience with nitro-powered
radio controlled models is required. The driver must exercise all
caution and accept full responsibility for their own safety, and the
safety of others nearby. Full-speed operation requires a large,
smooth running area free of obstacles and closed off to pedestrian
and automobile traffic.

Model engine fuel is dangerous and highly poisonous.

all directions and precautions printed on the fuel container. Model
engine fuel is poisonous to humans and animals. Drinking the fuel can
cause blindness and death. Handle with care and respect.

Model engine fuel, especially when in a fuel dispensing bottle, may
look like a cool drink to a child.

Keep all fuel out of the reach of
children at all times. Do not place fuel containers on the ground
where children can get to them while you are driving.

Model engine fuel is flammable. Never allow smoking, sparks, heat or
flame in the presence of fuel or fuel vapors.

The engine, brakes, and exhaust system may become extremely hot
during use. Be careful not to touch the parts, especially when
refueling or stopping the engine.

For outdoor use only. Prolonged exposure to the engine exhaust
can be harmful. Avoid breathing the engine exhaust. Always run
your Nitro 4-Tec outdoors, in a well-ventilated area. Never run the
engine indoors.

Always follow

Do not operate your Nitro 4-Tec at night, or anytime your line of sight to
the model may be obstructed or impaired in any way.

Never operate your Nitro 4-Tec in crowds of people or busy pedestrian
areas. Nitro 4-Tec is very fast and could cause injury to those unaware
of its presence.

Because Nitro 4-Tec is controlled by radio, it is subject to radio
interference from many sources beyond your control. Since radio
interference can cause momentary loss of control, always allow a
safety margin in all directions around your model to prevent collisions.

The engine can be loud. If the noise makes you uncomfortable, wear
ear protection. Be considerate of your neighbors by not running your
model early in the morning or late in the evening.

Most importantly, use good common sense at all times.

4•Nitro 4-Tec 3.3

Tools, Supplies, and Required Equipment

Your Nitro 4-Tec 3.3 comes with a set of specialty metric tools. You’ll need to purchase other items, available from your hobby dealer, to operate and maintain your model.

Supplied Tools and Equipment

For more information on
radio system batteries, see
Use the Right Batteries on
page 11.

U-joint wrenchTurnbuckle wrenches

1.5mm “L” hex wrench

2.0mm “L” hex wrench

2.5mm “L” hex wrench Antenna nut wrench

Required Tools and Equipment (sold separately)

10% quart - #5010
20% quart - #5020
33% quart - #5030
10% gallon - #5060
20% gallon - #5070
33% gallon - #5080

Traxxas Top Fuel

see page21

Fuel dispensing bottle

Part #5001

™

After-run oil to protect

the engine from corrosion

12 AA alkaline batteries

7.2V battery pack

Hobby knife

Accessory Equipment (sold separately)

4-way wrench

NiCad or NiMH

Philips screwdriver

Glow plug and

wheel nut wrench

Foam air filter oil and

extra oiled air filter element

(see page 22)

NiCad or NiMH battery charger

Traxxas part #3030X shown

Small flat-blade screwdriver

for tuning (1/8 inch blade)

A peak-detecting charger,
such as the TRX Power
Charger (part #3030X), is
recommended for best
performance and longest
battery life. For more
information, see

Right Charger

Recommended Equipment

These items are not
required for the operation
of your model, but are a
good idea to include in any
R/C toolbox:

• Safety glasses

• Thin, hobby-quality
cyanoacrylate instant tire
glue (CA glue)

• Side cutters or needle
nose pliers

• Metric hex driver set

Use the

on page 25.

TRX Power Charger

Traxxas part #3030X

RX battery power pack

Traxxas part #3037

RX Wiring Harness

Traxxas part #3034

DC car adapter for TRX Power Charger

Traxxas part #3032

Nitro 4-Tec 3.3 •5

Anatomy of Your Nitro 4-Tec 3.3

Chassis (lower)

Racing Tires

Shock
Tower

Body
Mount

EZ-Start
Plug

TRX 3.3 Racing Engine

see pg. 18 for details

Header

Pressure
Line

EZ-Start
Motor

Receiver

Crystal
Access

Antenna

Mount

Pipe

Servo
Saver

Pipe

Hanger

Steering

Bellcrank

Tie Rod

(Turnbuckle)

Front Camber Link

(Turnbuckle)

Front Bumper

Plate

Rear
Differential

Fuel Line

Rear
Suspension Arm

Two-Speed Transmission

6•Nitro 4-Tec 3.3

Air
Filter

Center
Drive Belt

Throttle/Brake Servo

Fuel Tank

Drive Belt

Pulley

Bearing

Block

Battery Holder

Fuel Tank Lid

Front

Drive Belt

On/Off
Switch

Body

Mount

Shock

(Oil Damper)

Front

Differential

Quick Start: Getting up to Speed

The following guide is an overview of the procedures for getting your Nitro 4-Tec 3.3 running, from opening the box to breaking in and tuning

your engine. Refer to the pages indicated for details on each step. Look for the Quick Start logo on the bottom corners of Quick Start pages.

1. Read the safety precautions on page 4

For your own safety, understand where carelessness and misuse
could lead to personal injury.

2. Charge the EZ-Start battery pack • See page 25

The EZ-Start requires a fully charged 7.2-volt battery
pack (sold separately).

10. Check servo operation • See page 16

Make sure the throttle, shifting, and steering servos are
working correctly.

11. Range test the radio system • See page 16

Follow this procedure to make sure your radio system works properly
at a distance and that there is no interference from outside sources.

The Quick Start Guide is
not intended to replace
the full operating
instructions available in
this manual. Please read
this entire manual for
complete instructions
on the proper use and
maintenance of
your Nitro 4-Tec.

3. Install the antenna • See page 13.

Install the antenna mast in Nitro 4-Tec.

4. Decal and Install the body • See page 8

You will need to use the body during break in, so it's best to apply
any additional decals before you use the body.

5. Install the body mounts • See page 8

Install the body mounts and foam bumper.

6. Install batteries in the transmitter • See page 11

Nitro 4-Tec requires 8 AA alkaline or rechargeable batteries
for the transmitter.

7. Install batteries in the model • See page 12

The Nitro 4-Tec requires 4AA alkaline or rechargeable
batteries for the receiver.

8. Install the EZ-Start battery • See page 25

Install and connect a charged 7.2-volt battery pack
in the EZ-Start controller.

9. Turn on the radio system • See page 15

Make a habit of turning the transmitter on first, and off last.

12. Fill the fuel tank • See page 22

Use your fuel-dispensing bottle to fill the tank.

13. Connect the EZ-Start to the model • See page 26

Learn the proper way to use the EZ-Start electric starting system

14. Start the engine • See page 27

Learn to use the correct starting procedure for your TRX 3.3.

15. Break-in your engine • See page 27

Follow the break-in instructions exactly to ensure the
best-performing, longest-lasting engine.

16. Tune your engine • See page 29

Learn how to set the fuel mixture needles for optimum
engine performance.

17. Drive your Nitro 4-Tec • See page 32

Driving tips and adjustments for your Nitro 4-Tec.

18. Maintaining your Car • See pages 36-37

Follow these critical steps to maintain the performance of your
Nitro 4-Tec and keep it in excellent running condition.

Look for the Quick Start
logo at the bottom of
Quick Start pages.

Nitro 4-Tec 3.3 •7

Decorating Installing your Nitro 4-Tec 3.3 Body

3x10mm countersunk

cap screws

Foam
Bumper

3x14mm

buttonhead

cap screws

Applying The Decals

The main decals have already been
applied to your Nitro 4-Tec. The extra
decals provided are die-cut for easy
removal. Use a hobby knife to lift the
corner of a decal and remove it from
the backing.

Carefully position the decal over the
desired location and press one side on
the body. Pull the decal tight and use
a finger to gradually smooth out any
air bubbles as you apply the decal.

Look at the photos on the box for
typical decal placement.

Installing The Body Mounts

The body mount parts are located
in a separate bag with your
instructions. The front body mount
posts attach to the front bumper
with 3x10mm countersunk cap
screws. Slide the foam bumper
over the front mounts, as shown in
the drawing. The excess length of
the mounts should be trimmed off
after the body is installed.

The rear body mounts attach as
shown in the drawing.

Installing Rear Body Mounts

Installing Front Body Mounts

8•Nitro 4-Tec 3.3

CH.2

CH.1

The Traxxas TQ Radio System

Your Nitro 4-Tec (model 4809) is equipped with the TQ Radio System. The TQ is a 2-channel system that provides high-power output up
to a quarter mile and control for two servos. The Nitro 4-Tec makes use of two channels for throttle/brake and steering.

TQ Transmitter

Antenna

Throttle Trim

Steering Trim

Throttle
Trigger

Throttle Neutral Adjust

Steering Wheel

Nitro 4-Tec 3.3 Wiring Diagram

4-Cell Battery

Holder

On/Off
Switch

Steering

Antenna

Servo

Throttle

Servo

Power Switch Power IndicatorBattery

Compartment

Servo Reversing

Switch

Receiver

Battery
Channel 1
Channel 2
Not Used (Channel 3)

Nitro 4-Tec 3.3 •9

The Traxxas TQ Radio System

Channel

Frequency

Band

Flag

Color

Traxxas
Part No.

1 26.995 Brown 2031

2 27.045 Red 2032

3 27.095 Orange 2033

4 27.145 Yellow 2034

5 27.195 Green 2035

6 27.255 Blue 2036

Learn terms related to the
TRX 3.3 Racing Engine
beginning on page 19.

Radio System Terminology

Please take a moment to familiarize yourself with these radio-system
terms. They will be used throughout this manual.

Channel - The 27 MHz frequency band is divided into 6 channels so that

up to six models can be operated simultaneously. Each channel is
referred to by its flag color and channel number, as shown below.

Clearing your frequency - A routine, verbal check to make sure

nobody else in your area is operating on the same channel. Always
clear your frequency by calling out your channel number before
operating your model. Wait or move to another area if your channel
is already being used.

Crystal (X-tal) - The plug-in device that determines which channel the

radio system will operate on. For each channel, there are two crystals,
one for the receiver and one for the transmitter. Of those two crystals,
the one marked “RX” with the lower number (.455 MHz lower) must be
inserted into the receiver.

NiCad - Abbreviation for nickel-cadmium. The original rechargeable

hobby pack, NiCad batteries have very high current handling, high
capacity, and can last up to 1000 charging cycles. Good charging
procedures are required to reduce the possibility of developing a
“memory” effect and shortened run times.

NiMH - Abbreviation for nickel-metal hydride. Rechargeable NiMH

batteries offer high current handling, and much greater resistance
to the “memory” effect. NiMH batteries generally allow higher
capacity than NiCad batteries. They can last up to 500 charge
cycles. A peak charger designed for NiMH batteries is required
for optimal performance.

Receiver - The radio unit inside your Nitro 4-Tec that receives signals

from the transmitter and relays them to the servos.

Servos - Small motor units in your Nitro 4-Tec that operate the throttle

and steering mechanisms.

Two-channel radio system - The TQ radio system, consisting of the

receiver, the transmitter, and the servos. The system uses two
channels: one to operate the throttle and one to operate the steering.

Transmitter - The hand-held radio unit that sends throttle and steering

instructions to your Nitro 4-Tec.

Trim - The fine-tuning adjustment of the neutral position of the servos,

made by turning the throttle and steering trim knobs on the face of
the transmitter.

10 •Nitro 4-Tec 3.3

Frequency band - The radio frequency used by the transmitter to send

signals to your Nitro 4-Tec. All Traxxas RTR models operate on a 27
MHz frequency band.

mAh – Abbreviation for milliamp hour. Measure of the capacity of the

battery pack. The higher the number, the longer the battery will last
between recharges.

Neutral position - The standing position that the servos seek when the

transmitter controls are at the neutral setting.

Installing Transmitter Batteries

CH.2

CH.1

Your TQ transmitter uses 8 AA batteries. The battery compartment is
located in the base of the transmitter.

1. Remove the battery compartment door by pressing the tab and
lifting the door up.

2. Install the batteries in the correct orientation as indicated in the
battery compartment.

The Traxxas TQ Radio System

4. Turn on the transmitter and check the power indicator for a
solid red light.

If the power indicator light flashes, then the transmitter batteries are
weak, discharged or possibly installed incorrectly. Replace with new or
freshly charged batteries. The power indicator light does not indicate
the charge level of the RX Power Pack installed in the model.

Use the Right Batteries

Your transmitter uses AA
batteries. Use new alkaline
batteries, or rechargeable
batteries such as NiCad or
NiMH (Nickel Metal Hydride)
batteries in your
transmitter. Make sure
rechargeable batteries are
fully charged according to
the manufacturer’s
instructions.

If you use rechargeable
batteries in your
transmitter, be aware
that when they begin
to lose their charge, they
lose power much more
quickly than regular alkaline
batteries.

Caution: Discontinue
running your Nitro 4-Tec at
the first sign of weak
batteries (flashing red light)
to avoid losing control.

3. Reinstall the battery door and snap it closed.

If the power indicator
doesn’t light red, check the
polarity of the batteries.
Check rechargeable
batteries for a full charge.

Nitro 4-Tec 3.3 •11

The Traxxas TQ Radio System

If you use rechargeable
batteries in your receiver,
be aware that when they
begin to lose their charge,
they lose power much more
quickly than regular
alkaline batteries. Signs of
weak receiver batteries
include sluggish steering
response and shortened
radio range. Caution:
Discontinue running your
Nitro 4-Tec at the first sign
of weak batteries to avoid
losing control.

If the radio system doesn’t
appear to work when the
transmitter and receiver
switches are turned on,
check for correct battery
installation.

Installing the Receiver Batteries

The radio receiver in your Nitro 4-Tec uses 4 AA batteries. The receiver
battery holder is located underneath the top plate, just to the right of
the fuel tank.

1. Press the tab on the reusable zip tie to release the
battery holder.

2. Remove the battery holder and
install 4 AA alkaline batteries.
Make careful note of the battery
polarity by comparing against the
diagrams in the battery holder.

3. Stretch a rubber balloon over the
battery holder to prevent fuel
contamination.

4. Install the battery holder into the car
and secure it to the top plate with the
reusable zip-tie. Make sure the battery
holder is secure in the model and will not
come loose. If the tie wrap is loose, it will
interfere with the middle drive belt.

Traxxas TRX Power System (optional)

The optional Traxxas TRX Power System can be
purchased separately to power the radio system
in the Nitro 4-Tec 3.3. Benefits include the
economy of a rechargeable 5-cell nickel metal
hydride (NiMH) battery pack that replaces AA
alkaline batteries, and increased voltage for

dramatically improved servo performance. The
TRX Power Charger (Part #3030X) is a peak-detecting unit that will
charge the RX Power Pack (Part #3036 flat pack or #3037 hump pack) in
about one hour. The peak detection circuitry automatically shuts off the
charger when the maximum charge has been achieved. The TRX Power
Charger also includes a 7.2V adapter for charging 7.2V EZ-Start batteries.
The TRX Power Charger can operate on either AC or DC power. A special
wiring harness for Nitro 4-Tec (Traxxas part #3034) that includes a handy
external charging jack is required.

The optional DC car adapter (Part #3032) features a
tangle-free, extra long wire and integrated fuse. The
long charging cord allows the model to remain outside
the car while charging. Caution! Never charge batteries
in an enclosed car interior or while driving. Never leave
charging batteries unattended. Monitor them closely.

Traxxas' integrated TRX Power System is the easiest way to add the
power and economy of rechargeable batteries to your Nitro 4-Tec 3.3.
Consult your hobby dealer for purchasing information.

12•Nitro 4-Tec 3.3

Setting up the Antenna

You must install the antenna mast (tube) before you operate your
Nitro 4-Tec. You’ll find the plastic antenna tube and tip in the bag
with your manuals and documentation.

1. Locate the black antenna wire that exits the receiver cover. The
receiver cover is located between the fuel tank and the tuned
pipe. The antenna wire exits the cover towards the front.

2. Pull the wire straight with your fingers and then insert the end of
the wire into one end of the antenna tube (the antenna tube, tip,
crimp nut and sleeve are located in the documents bag). Push the
wire all the way through the antenna tube.

3. Carefully position the wire so it exits through the slot in
the molded antenna post and insert the base of the tube into
the antenna post.

4. Slide the crimp nut over the antenna tube and screw it onto the
antenna post. Use the supplied tool to tighten the crimp nut on
the post just until the antenna tube is securely in place. Do not
over tighten or crush the antenna wire against the top plate.

5. Fold the top of the antenna wire over the top of the antenna
tube. Slide the antenna sleeve over the tube to retain the
antenna wire. Now slide the antenna tip onto the top of the
antenna tube. Never
cut or shorten the antenna wire.

The Traxxas TQ Radio System

Antenna Tip

Antenna Sleeve

Antenna Tube

Antenna Wrench

Spray a little window
cleaner on the antenna
wire to make it easier
to push through the
antenna tube.

Don’t shorten the length
of the antenna wire. Its
length is tuned to the
frequency band; cutting it
could severely shorten the
radio system’s range.

Don’t push the
transmitter antenna down
from the top. Pull it down
from the bottom, one
segment at a time, to
prevent binding and
kinking the antenna mast.

6. On the transmitter, always fully extend the telescoping antenna

when running your 4-Tec. Make a habit of holding the transmitter
so the antenna points straight up.

Antenna Crimp Nut

Antenna Post

Nitro 4-Tec 3.3 •13

Steering

T

U

R

N

L

E

F

T

T

U

R

N

R

I

G

H

T

Brake

Neutral

Accelerate

CH.

2

CH.

1

The Traxxas TQ Radio System

CH.2

CH.1

14 •Nitro 4-Tec 3.3

TQ Radio System Controls

There are two settings available:

50/50: Allows equal travel for both

acceleration and braking.

70/30: Allows more throttle travel

(70%) and less brake travel (30%).

50/50 is the required setting for Nitro 4-Tec
with the TRX 3.3 Racing Engine.

Electronic Throttle Trim

The electronic throttle trim located on the face of the transmitter adjusts
the neutral (center) point of the throttle servo when the servo is at rest.
This control has been preset for you at the factory. If necessary, adjust
the control so that the carburetor is at idle, and the brakes are not
applied (the model will roll freely). Do not use the throttle trim to raise
or lower the engine idle speed. Make the idle speed adjustment on the
carburetor.

Electronic Steering Trim

The electronic steering trim located on the face of the transmitter
adjusts the neutral (center) point of the steering servos when the servos
are at rest. Adjust this control to make the model drive straight with no
steering input at the wheel.

Servo Reversing Switches

TQ Radio System Adjustments

In addition to the electronic throttle and steering trim controls, your radio
system features throttle neutral adjustment and servo reversing switches.

Throttle Neutral Adjustment

The throttle neutral adjustment is located on the transmitter face and
controls the forward/reverse travel of the throttle trigger. Change the
adjustment by pressing the button and sliding it to the desired position.

The servo reversing switches are located on the front of the transmitter,
next to the on/off switch. Moving a switch reverses the direction of the
corresponding servo. Each switch corresponds to a channel, as shown
below. For example, if you turn the steering wheel to the right and your
front wheels turn left, you would move the channel 1 switch to correct
the servo direction. It may be
necessary to adjust the
corresponding trim control after
moving a switch

. The default

position for the servo reversing
switches is shown.

TQ Channel to Servo Chart

Channel Servo Default Setting

1 Steering Left
2 Throttle & braking Right