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Transmitter Controls
The TQ 2.4GHz transmitter has a directional antenna. For
maximum range, hold the antenna upright and pointed in the
direction of the model. Pointing the transmitter away from the
model will reduce radio range.
Radio System Adjustment
Your radio system was pre-adjusted before it left the factory however,
the adjustment should be checked prior to running the Blast. These
instructions are for Traxxas radio systems only. If you installed your own
radio, refer to your radio system's instructions.
• Always turn your transmitter on first and off last. This procedure will
help to prevent your Blast from receiving stray signals from another
transmitter, or other source, and running out of control.
• Turn the transmitter switch on. The status LED on the transmitter should
be solid green (not flashing).
• Turn on the receiver switch inside the boat. The steering servo should
jump and move to its idle (neutral) position. Keep fingers and obstacles
away from the propeller.
• Operate the steering control on the transmitter.
Check for rapid operation of the steering servo
and that none of the steering mechanism is
loose or binding. If the servo operates slowly,
check for weak batteries. Adjust the "steering
trim" control on the transmitter to adjust the
servo so that the outdrive is pointing straight
out from the back of the boat. Also, check to
be sure that the outdrive does not turn more in
one direction than in the other. If you cannot
align the outdrive, refer to the section "Centering Your Servos."
• Operate the throttle trigger on the transmitter to ensure that you have
full operation (propeller reaches full speed), and that the propeller stops
spinning when the throttle trigger is at neutral.
• Once adjustments are made, turn off the receiver on your Blast, followed
by the hand-held transmitter.
• The radio system should be range-tested before each session of running.
With the radio system on, have a friend carry the boat away from you a
distance equal to the maximum range you plan to operate the Blast. At
distance, once again test for complete radio control. Never attempt to run
the Blast if the radio appears to be malfunctioning in any way.
Centering your Servos
Whenever your radio system has been removed for service or cleaning, the
steering servo must be re-centered prior to installing the radio system in the
model. If the radio system is already installed in the boat, disconnect the
servo horn from the servo.
Neutral
Forward
Connect the steering servo to channel 1 on your receiver and the
electronic speed control to channel 2. Nothing connects to the other
terminals on the receiver.
Place fresh "AA" batteries in the transmitter and turn the power switch
on. Adjust trim to "0" position. Connect a fresh 7.2V battery pack to the
electronic speed control and turn the power switch to the ON position.
The servo will automatically jump to its center position.
Turn off the electronic speed control switch followed by the transmitter.
The servo is now ready to be installed. Be careful not to move the servo
shaft when installing the steering linkage.
Piloting the Blast
Your new Traxxas Blast is designed with water-resistant features to protect
the electronics in the model (receiver, servo, electronic speed control).
This gives you the freedom to have fun piloting your Blast. Though highly
water resistant, the Blast should not be treated as though it is submersible
or totally, 100% waterproof. Water resistance applies only to the installed
electronic components. Additional care and maintenance is required when
water contacts the mechanical and electrical components to prevent
corrosion of metal parts and maintain their proper function. Before you go
on, here are some important precautions to keep in mind.
• Without proper care, some parts of your model can be seriously damaged due
to contact with water. Know that additional maintenance procedures will be
required after running in order to maintain the performance of your model.
• Not all batteries can be used in wet environments. Consult your battery
manufacturer to see if their batteries can be used in wet conditions. Do not use
LiPo batteries in wet conditions (Note: The Nautica ESC is not LiPo compatible).
• The Traxxas TQ 2.4GHz transmitter is not water resistant.
• Do not operate your model during a rain storm or other inclement weather
where lightning may be present.
• Do not allow your model to come in contact with salt water (ocean water),
brackish water (between fresh water and ocean water), or other contaminated
water. Salt water is highly conductive and highly corrosive. Use caution if you
plan to run your model near a beach.
• Select a body of water (at least 10 inches deep) that is clear of moss and grass.
Do not drive the Blast in rough, choppy water or in high wind (more than 15
mph). These conditions could cause your Blast to flip over.
• The Blast's steering is very sensitive. A slight input on the steering control will
have a large effect on the boat. When the boat is in open water, adjust the
steering trim on the transmitter until the boat travels in a straight line on its
own. (Note: The Blast will only travel in a straight line on its own when it is
heading straight into or away from the wind. Crosswinds will require constant
steering input to maintain a straight course.)
• To prevent spin outs, avoid sharp turns at high speed.
• Always be ready to reduce the throttle if the Blast appears to be unstable or
"chine walking" (rocking violently from side-to-side). Always reduce the throttle
when turning, especially in rough water. Jumping the Blast or towing anything
with it should not be attempted.
• Return the Blast to shore at the first sign of weak batteries (Blast will begin to
slow and the controls will become sluggish).
Cavitation
If the Blast is running at full throttle but is only barely moving forward, the
propeller is cavitating. Try advancing the throttle slowly to get the Blast
on plane. If you are having trouble with cavitation, check the propeller for
nicks or tangled debris. The Blast's propeller is specially designed for its
application; therefore, it is very sensitive to any changes or modifications. If
the propeller is damaged, it should be replaced.
Before Running Your Blast
1. Consult the section "After Running Your Blast" before proceeding. Make
sure you understand the maintenance required.
2. Confirm that the receiver box O-ring and cover are installed correctly and
secure. Make sure the screws are tight and the blue O-ring is not visibly
protruding from the edge of the cover.
3. Confirm that your batteries can be used in
wet conditions.
4. Normally, very little water will accumulate
inside the boat. Empty any standing water
from the boat between runs. Drill a small
hole 1/16" from the front of the boat to
drain the water. Do not drain the water
out of the back of the boat (near the radio system).
Drill a small
Drill a small
hole here
hole here
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