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.
No previous experience with radio controlled models is required. Models require a minimum of setup, maintenance, or support equipment.
SAFETY PRECAUTIONS
•Transmitter on First: Switch on your transmitter first before switching on the speed control to prevent runaways and erratic performance.
•Use Neutrally Timed Motors: For reverse use, the motors must have 0° timing. Modified motors (with adjustable end bells) timed to 0° or Johnson/ Mabuchi (closed end bell) motors are recommended. Using motors with other than 0° timing will draw excess current in reverse, and can result in the speed control overheating and premature motor wear.
•Always Use Heat Sinks: Three heat sinks are factory-installed on the speed control and must be used for maximum cooling and performance.
•4-8 NiMH cells or 2 LiPo cells (2S) Only: The XL-5 can only accept a maximum input voltage of 9.6 volts (NiMH), 7.4 volts (2S LiPo). Always adhere to the minimum and maximum limitations of the XL-5 as stated in the specifications table.
•Don’t Get Burned: The transistor tabs and the heat sinks can get extremely hot, so be careful not to touch them until they cool. Supply adequate airflow for cooling.
•Use Stock Connectors: If you decide to change the battery or motor connectors, only change one battery or motor connector at a time. This will prevent accidentally mis-wiring the speed control. If the XL-5 is not wired exactly as shown in the diagram, it can be damaged! Please note that modified speed controls can be subject to a rewiring fee when returned for service.
•No Reverse Voltage: The speed control is not protected against reverse polarity voltage. When changing the battery and/or motor, be sure to install the same type of connectors to avoid reverse polarity damage to the speed control. Removing the battery connectors on the speed control or using the same-gender connectors on the speed control will void the product’s warranty.
•Motor Capacitors Required: Three 0.1µF (50V) ceramic capacitors should be properly installed on every motor to prevent radio interference. Capacitors have been provided with the XL-5.
•Do Not Let the Transistor Tabs Touch: Never allow the three separate transistor banks to touch each other or any exposed metal. This will create a short circuit and damage the speed control.
•No Schottky Diodes: External Schottky diodes are not compatible with reversing speed controls. Using a Schottky diode with the XL-5 will damage the ESC and void the 30-day warranty.
BATTERIES AND BATTERY CHARGING
The XL-5 speed control uses rechargeable batteries that must be handled with care for safety and long battery life. Make sure to read and follow all instructions and precautions that were provided with your battery packs and your charger. It is your responsibility to charge and
care for your battery packs properly. In addition to your battery and charger instructions, here are some more tips to keep in mind.
•Never leave batteries to charge unattended.
•Remove the batteries from the model while charging.
•Allow the battery packs to cool off between runs (before charging).
•Always unplug the battery from the electronic speed control when the model is not in use and when it is being stored or transported.
•Do not use battery packs that have been damaged in any way.
•Do not use battery packs that have damaged wiring, exposed wiring, or a damaged connector.
•Children should have responsible adult supervision when charging and handling batteries.
Recycling Your Traxxas Power Cell NiMH Battery
Traxxas strongly encourages you to recycle your Power Cell battery when it has reached the end of its useful life. Do not throw your battery in the trash. All Power Cell battery packs display the RBRC (Rechargeable Battery Recycling Corporation) icon, indicating they are recyclable. To find a recycling center near you, ask your local hobby dealer or visit www.call2recycle.org.
LiPo Batteries
Warning: Lithium Polymer (LiPo) batteries require special care and handling procedures for long life and safe operation. LiPo batteries are intended only for advanced users that are educated on the risks associated with LiPo battery use. Traxxas does not recommend that anyone under the age of 14 use or handle LiPo battery packs without the supervision of a knowledgeable and responsible adult.
The XL-5 speed control is able to use LiPo batteries with nominal voltage not to exceed 7.4 volts (2S packs). LiPo batteries have a minimum safe discharge voltage threshold that should not be exceeded. The XL-5
is equipped with built-in Low-Voltage Detection that alerts the driver when LiPo batteries have reached their minimum voltage (discharge) threshold. It is the driver’s responsibility to stop immediately to prevent the battery pack from being discharged below its safe minimum threshold.
Low-Voltage Detection on the speed control is just one part of a comprehensive plan for safe LiPo battery use. It is critical for you, the user, to follow all other instructions supplied by the battery manufacturer and the charger manufacturer for proper charging, use, and storage of LiPo batteries. Make sure you understand how to use your LiPo batteries. Be aware that Traxxas shall not be liable for any special, indirect, incidental, or consequential damages arising out of the installation and/or use of LiPo batteries in Traxxas products.
If you have questions about LiPo battery usage, please consult with your local hobby dealer or contact the battery manufacturer.
