Traxxas Automobile Parts 5304 User Manual

2 0 0 8 P l a t i n u m E d i t i o n  
MODEL 5304  
INTRODUCTION  
CONTENTS  
INTRODUCTION...............................................................2  
SAFETY PRECAUTIONS ..................................................3  
TOOLS, SUPPLIES AND REQUIRED EQUIPMENT ........3  
RADIO INSTALLATION AND BATTERY CARE ................4  
TIRE GLUING AND BODY DETAILING............................5  
THE TRX 3.3 RACING ENGINE.......................................6  
TUNING ADJUSTMENTS...............................................11  
INDEX.............................................................................18  
INTRODUCTION  
BEFORE YOU PROCEED  
Thank you for choosing the Traxxas Revo 2008 Platinum Edition. We  
believe you have purchased the most technologically advanced, track-  
ready R/C monster truck available. Revo proudly demonstrates Traxxas’  
passionate commitment to innovation, ultimate performance, and  
unmatched engineering. Revo’s radically advanced suspension, chassis,  
and transmission design takes performance to a higher level. Now with  
over 50 proven championship features, Revo pushes the performance  
envelope even further with track proven accessories. We’ve engineered  
Revo to allow you to experience power, control, and responsiveness  
that surpasses anything else you’ve driven.  
Carefully read and follow all instructions in this and any accompanying  
materials to prevent serious damage to your Revo. Failure to follow  
these instructions will be considered abuse and/or neglect.  
Before running your Revo, look over this entire manual and examine the  
truck carefully. If for some reason you decide the Revo is not what you  
wanted, then do not continue any further. Your hobby dealer absolutely  
cannot accept a Revo 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!  
To complete the Revo Platinum Edition for operation you will need;  
two-channel transmitter with mini receiver, starter box, glow igniter,  
charger for the receiver battery pack (3030X recommended), paint, and  
Traxxas Top Fuel.  
An important warning about personal safety or avoiding  
damage to your model and related components.  
We know you’re excited about getting your new Revo on the track,  
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 Revo. Even if you are an experienced R/C  
enthusiast, it’s important to read and follow the procedures in this  
manual. Revo 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.  
Special advice from Traxxas to make things easier  
and more fun.  
Refers you to a page with a related topic.  
TRAXXAS SUPPORT  
Traxxas support is with you every step of the way. Read  
below to find out how to contact us and what your  
support options are. If you have any questions about your  
Revo 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 8:30 am  
to 9:00 pm central time. Technical assistance is also available at www.  
Traxxas.com. You may also e-mail customer support with your question  
at [email protected]. Join hundreds of Traxxas R/C enthusiasts in  
We want you to feel confident that you own the best performing truck  
in the market and that it is backed by a team of professionals who aim  
to provide the highest level of factory support possible. Revo is about  
experiencing total performance and satisfaction, not just with your  
truck, but also with the company that stands behind it. We truly want  
you to enjoy your new Revo!  
Traxxas offers a full-service, on-site repair facility to handle any of  
your Traxxas service needs. Maintenance, replacement parts, and  
accessories may be purchased directly from Traxxas by phone or online  
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 Revo!  
Thank you again for going with Traxxas.  
2 REVO PLATINUM EDITION  
INTRODUCTION  
SAFETY PRECAUTIONS  
Model engine fuel is flammable. Never allow smoking, sparks, heat  
or flame in the presence of fuel or fuel vapors.  
All of us at Traxxas want you to safely enjoy your new Revo. Operate  
your Revo sensibly and with care, and it will be exciting, safe, and fun for  
you and those around you. Failure to operate your Revo 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.  
• Prolonged exposure to the engine exhaust can be harmful. Avoid  
breathing the engine exhaust. Always run your Revo outdoors, in a  
well-ventilated area. Never run the engine indoors.  
• Do not operate your Revo at night, or anytime your line of sight to the  
model may be obstructed or impaired in any way.  
Important Points to Remember  
• Never operate your Revo in crowds of people or busy pedestrian  
areas. Revo is very fast and could cause injury to those unaware of  
its presence. Keep small children at a safe distance away from the  
operating area.  
• Revo is very fast! The Revo is intended for experienced users with a  
high level of skill. The TRX 3.3 Racing Engine is extremely powerful and  
may require skilled driving to maintain control.  
• 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.  
• Because Revo 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.  
Model engine fuel is dangerous and highly poisonous. Always follow  
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.  
• 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.  
• 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 reach them. Pay close attention to where you  
place your fuel and fuel bottle while you are driving.  
• Most importantly, use good common sense at all times.  
Children under 16 years of age and inexperienced drivers  
should not operate the Revo without the supervision  
of a responsible and knowledgeable (experienced) adult.  
TOOLS, SUPPLIES, AND REQUIRED EQUIPMENT  
Revo 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  
• Shock wrench  
Required Tools and Equipment  
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:  
• Traxxas Top Fuel  
10% quart - #5010 10% gallon - #5060  
20% quart - #5020 20% gallon - #5070  
33% quart - #5030 33% gallon - #5080  
• 8mm slipper clutch wrench  
• 7mm turnbuckle wrench  
• 17mm wheel wrench  
• Hobby knife  
• Fuel dispensing bottle  
• Flywheel starter box  
• Glow igniter  
• Side cutters and/or needle nose pliers  
• Philips screwdriver  
• Soldering iron  
• Antenna nut tool  
• Suspension multi-tool  
• 4-way wrench  
• After-run oil  
• Small flat-blade screwdriver  
for tuning (1/8 inch blade)  
• Thin, hobby-quality cyanoacrylate  
instant tire glue (CA glue)  
• Glow plug and wheel nut wrench  
• 1.5mm “L” wrench  
• 2.0mm “T” wrench  
• Safety glasses  
• 2.5mm “L” wrench  
• Paint for the body  
• 2.5mm “T” wrench  
• 2-channel radio system with mini receiver  
• 5-cell NiMH RX Power Pack battery  
• Suspension tuning shims and hollow balls  
• Servo cable “Y” harness  
• Front and rear black swaybars (stiffer)  
• Spring pairs - Green, White, and Tan  
• Shock oil - 40W and 60W  
• Clutch bell - 16T  
• Charger for RX Power Pack battery (such as  
the Traxxas TRX Power Charger, part #3030X)  
• Spur gears - 36T and 40T  
Traxxas  
1100 Klein Road  
Plano, Texas 75074  
Phone: 972-265-8000  
Toll-free 1-888-TRAXXAS  
Traxxas U.K.  
P.O. Box 1128  
Winterbourne, Bristol BS36-2SH  
England  
Phone: 44-117-956-1002  
Entire contents ©2008 Traxxas. Traxxas, Maxx, Revo, TRX 3.3 Racing Engine, Top  
Fuel, Ready-To-Race, Ready-To-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.  
REVO PLATINUM EDITION  
3
RADIO INSTALLATION AND BATTERY CARE  
This model requires the installation of a radio system. The receiver box  
is designed to fit most standard size “mini” or “micro” receivers (actual  
dimensions of box are 32mm wide x 45mm long x 26mm tall [1.26" x 1.77"  
Typical Radio System Wiring  
x 1.02"]). A rechargeable 5-cell nickel metal hydride (NiMH) battery pack is  
include to power your radio system.  
Charging  
Jack  
1. Remove the lid from the radio box.  
On/Off  
Switch  
2. Plug each steering servo into each of the channel 1 ports on the  
receiver (for receivers with only one channel 1 port, use the included  
Y-harness to plug both steering servos into the channel 1 port on  
the receiver).  
RX Power Pack  
5-cell NiMH  
Battery  
Antenna  
3. Plug the throttle servo into the channel 2 port on the receiver.  
4. Plug the red battery plug from the on/off switch into the battery  
port on the receiver.  
5. Leave the extra male  
plug (black) from the  
on/off switch loose  
inside the receiver box.  
This is the charge plug  
and will need to be  
used for charging the  
receiver battery pack.  
Steering  
Servos  
Battery  
Receiver  
(not included)  
Channel 2  
Channel 1  
Channel 1*  
“Y” harness  
Charging Jack  
6. Make sure the battery  
Throttle  
Servo  
pack is plugged into the female plug (red) of the on/off switch.  
7. For receivers using crystals, make sure that the transmitter and  
receiver crystals are on matching frequencies.  
8. Route the receiver antenna through the radio box lid and then slide  
* Traxxas receiver #2216 shown has two Channel 1  
outputs. Use the included “Y” harness for  
receivers with one Channel 1 output.  
the antenna wire through the antenna tube.  
9. Use the supplied self-adhesive  
foam (located in your owner’s  
manual package) to cushion  
the receiver. Remove the  
A
B
BATTERY CARE  
Some precautions should be taken to maintain the performance of the  
rechargeable NiMH receiver pack in your model. Improper use of the  
battery pack could result in personal injury or damage to your truck.  
adhesive backing strip and  
attach the foam to either the  
bottom of the receiver or to the  
shelf inside the radio box (A).  
Only use approved chargers for NiMH battery packs (such as the Traxxas  
TRX Power Charger, part #3030X). Do not exceed the maximum charge  
rate of 1 amp.  
10. Secure the lid to the radio box  
with a body clip and then slide  
an antenna cap over the end of  
the antenna tube while leaving  
the antenna wire exposed.  
Do not short-circuit the battery pack. This may cause burns and severe  
damage to the battery pack.  
Do not burn or puncture the batteries. Toxic materials could be released. If  
eye or skin contact occurs, flush with water.  
11. Insert the antenna tube into  
the mounting post. Slide the  
crimp nut over the antenna  
tube and screw it onto the  
Store the battery pack in a dry location, away from heat sources  
and direct sunlight.  
Nickel Metal Hydride batteries must be recycled or disposed of properly.  
antenna post. Use the supplied  
tool to tighten the crimp nut on  
the post just until the antenna  
Do not completely discharge the RX Power Pack or you could damage  
it. Do not use dischargers on the pack. Store the battery with at  
least 25% charge. Stop running and recharge at the first indication  
of reduced voltage.  
tube is securely in place (B). Do not over tighten.  
12. Refer to your radio/receiver owner’s manual for proper radio set up  
and operation.  
The optional Traxxas TRX Power Charger can  
be purchased separately to charge the RX  
Power Pack. The TRX Power Charger (Part  
#3030X) is a peak-detecting unit that will charge  
the RX Power 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 can operate on  
either AC or DC power.  
CHARGING THE RECEIVER BATTERY  
Your Revo is equipped with the RX Power Pack, a rechargeable 5-cell  
nickel metal hydride (NiMH) battery pack. The RX Power Pack must be  
fully charged before running the truck. Revo has a charging jack located  
inside the receiver box so you do not have to remove the battery pack  
from the model. To charge the battery, remove the receiver box cover  
and plug the charger output cord into the charging jack. The on/off  
switch must be in the off position to charge the receiver pack. Caution!  
Never charge batteries in an enclosed car interior or while driving. Never  
leave charging batteries unattended. Monitor them closely.  
Sold  
Separately  
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.  
Sold  
Separately  
4 REVO PLATINUM EDITION  
TIRE GLUING AND BODY DETAILING  
and in light coats. Be patient! Let the paint dry fully in between  
TIRE GLUING  
coats. This will prevent accidentally smearing wet paint. Take extra  
care when masks are being removed. After the body is completely  
painted, remove the peel coat from the outside of the body.  
The tires on your Revo are pre-glued and ready for the track. Revo  
rims are equipped with a special bead design that helps retain the  
tires and reduces the stress places on the glue joint. Following are  
instructions for how to glue your wheels and tires in future. You can  
glue the tires without removing the wheels from the truck. For clarity,  
these instructions show the process with the wheels removed. Always  
wear safety glasses to prevent glue from splattering in your eyes.  
DECALS  
You are now ready to apply the decals. The decals have been die-cut  
for your convenience. Test the position of the decals before applying  
them to the body. Once the decals have been applied, they cannot  
be removed without damaging them. You can spray the body with  
window cleaner before applying the decals. This will allow you to  
re-position them. Once positioned, squeegee the cleaner from under  
the decal. The decal will adhere when it dries. If you have air bubbles  
in the decals, puncture the center of each bubble with a sharp pin  
and push the air out. If you have creases along the outer edges of a  
decal (especially when applied to curved surfaces), use a hobby knife  
to cut along the top of the crease and overlap the edges.  
1. Remove a wheel from Revo using the  
included 17mm wheel nut wrench.  
2. Use your thumb to push the side of the  
tire away from the rim. Place one or two  
drops of CA glue into the opening and  
release the tire. Capillary action will draw  
the glue around the bead of the tire.  
3. Repeat step two at four or five points  
around the rim, until the tire is completely secured to the rim. Turn the  
rim over and repeat the process for the inside of the rim/tire. Repeat  
for the other 3 wheels.  
4. Reinstall the wheels.  
PAINTING THE BODY  
Note: Please read this entire section and plan your paint job  
before beginning.  
Buying Paint  
The body supplied with your model is molded from lightweight  
and durable clear polycarbonate. It should be painted on the  
underside so that the color will not be scratched off while running.  
The best way to paint the body is by using thinned paints sprayed  
through an airbrush or spray gun. If you do not have these tools, the  
next best way is using spray can paints. Whatever paint you use, be  
sure that it is made for painting Lexan® or polycarbonate. Other types  
of paints and solvents can attack the body material and cause it to  
appear foggy.  
Preparing the Body  
The body must be washed thoroughly with dish soap and water  
to remove any grease or oil (i.e. fingerprints) which may keep the  
paint from adhering to it. Dry the body completely with a soft, lint-  
free cloth.  
Use the supplied masks to mask the windows. Mask off any stripes  
or custom effects with either masking tape or special tape made for  
striping. This special tape is available from automotive paint supply  
stores and will provide sharper edges than masking tape. For easy,  
custom-colored striping, automotive pin-striping tape can be applied  
to the inside of the body and painted over. Be sure that all of your  
tape and masks are fully pressed down (burnished) so that the paint  
will not run or bleed underneath.  
Usually, the darker colors are painted first, followed by the lighter  
colors. If your paint scheme would be easier to mask by covering  
the dark areas and spraying them last, be sure the lighter colors are  
opaque enough to prevent the darker color from showing through.  
Lighter colors can be backed with silver to help make them opaque.  
Spraying the Body  
Read the directions on your bottle or can of paint and shake, mix, or  
thin the paint, as required. It is very important to avoid breathing the  
paint vapors, as they are extremely harmful. Spray the paint outdoors  
in well-ventilated areas only. Apply the paint to the body sparingly  
REVO PLATINUM EDITION  
5
THE TRX 3.3 RACING ENGINE  
A few minutes spent before and after each time you run your model will  
allow you to enjoy it for a long time to come. Read on for more exciting  
details about your new engine.  
INTRODUCTION  
The TRX® 3.3 Racing Engine is the next ge
of TRX nitro power. The large displaceme
and advanced porting generate class-lea
horsepower while still maintaining the  
TRX Racing Engine characteristics of broa
linear power delivery and ease of tuning.  
Focused engineering and rigorous testin
have yielded unprecedented power and  
uncompromising performance.  
THE FUEL  
Use the Right Fuel  
It’s imperative that you use the correct fuel in your  
TRX 3.3 Racing Engine for maximum performance  
and engine life. Traxxas Top Fuelshould be used to  
ensure correct engine lubrication, performance, and  
ease of tuning. Traxxas Top Fuel has been proven in  
thousands of engines, so you can count on it every  
day for great performance.  
The TRX 3.3 Racing Engine takes a  
total-system approach. Each part of  
the engine, from the air filter to the  
exhaust tip, is carefully engineered to  
• Top Fuel is the only fuel which is 100% certified for  
use in Traxxas engines.  
work in harmony with other engine components. Each part complements  
the next, to extract maximum power. The TRX 3.3 Racing Engine is  
designed to be tolerant of variations in tuning, and to run successfully  
through a wide range of variable atmospheric conditions such as changes  
in temperature, humidity, and altitude.  
• Traxxas Top Fuel is made with just the right balance of the highest  
grade natural and synthetic lubricants to allow excellent throttle  
response and the best top-end performance, without sacrificing long-  
term durability.  
In order to get the longest engine life and keep the TRX 3.3 Racing  
Engine in top running condition, it is very important to perform regular  
routine maintenance. The number one cause of premature engine wear  
and failure is lack of care and maintenance!  
• All of the components in the fuel are carefully selected from the  
best materials available and then custom blended to match the  
metallurgy and temperature characteristics of Traxxas engines.  
You may use 10%, 20% or 33% nitro-content fuel. Try to use the same  
percentage all the time and avoid switching back and forth between  
fuels. We recommend that if you break in your engine on 20% fuel that  
you continue to use that percentage. If you do move to a higher or lower  
percentage, make sure you readjust your fuel mixture to compensate.  
STARTER BOX AND GLOW IGNITER  
The TRX 3.3 Racing engine in your Revo is equipped with a backplate the  
pull start or EZ-Start system. A starter box is required for running. Starter  
boxes designed to accommodate the Revo are available from your local  
hobby dealer. You will also need a glow plug igniter (glow driver) to light  
the glow plug. Use a high-high quality rechargeable glow igniter. Make  
sure it is fully charged per the manufacturer’s instructions.  
What about Other Fuels?  
Can other brands of fuel be used besides Top Fuel? There are other fuels  
that can provide satisfactory performance; however there could be long-  
term costs in the form of decreased engine performance, loss of tuning  
ease, and shorter engine life. Only use fuels that contain both castor and  
synthetic oil.  
BREAK-IN  
The TRX 3.3 Racing Engine is manufactured to exacting tolerances and  
requires a specially-designed break-in procedure to accomplish the final  
precision fitting of the internal engine components. It is very important  
that you follow the new break-in procedure as closely as possible to  
achieve the best performance and longest life from your TRX 3.3 Racing  
Engine. Engine break-in will take between one and two hours. Old style  
break-in procedures, such as idling the engine on the bench for several  
tanks of fuel or simply running the engine with a very rich fuel mixture  
for the first 4 tanks of fuel, will not achieve the best results. Follow the  
easy steps in this manual.  
Everyone has an opinion or a claim to make about fuel. The engineering  
team at Traxxas has spent years developing TRX Racing Engines.  
No one knows more about the specific fuel requirements of Traxxas  
engines than Traxxas engineers. We strongly urge you not to take  
chances with your engine investment and use the Traxxas fuel made for  
the TRX 3.3 Racing Engine.  
Choosing a Nitro Percentage  
A commonly asked question is “what is the difference between 10%,  
20%, and 33% fuels?” Increasing the nitro in the fuel is almost like adding  
extra oxygen to the combustion process. It burns more efficiently,  
improves combustion, and delivers more power. When increased nitro  
is used, more of the other fuel components are then required inside the  
combustion chamber to maintain the perfect air/fuel ratio. Therefore,  
overall fuel mixtures need to be richened slightly (on the high speed  
needle, about 3/4 of a turn counterclockwise when changing from 20%  
to 33%, about 1/2 of a turn counterclockwise when changing from 10%  
to 20%). This allows greater fuel flow through the engine and promotes  
cooler running, even at the maximum lean settings.  
AIR FILTER MAINTENANCE  
A clean air filter is critical for long engine life. Due to the high-  
performance nature of the TRX 3.3 Racing Engine, a tremendous amount  
of vacuum is created to move a large volume of high-velocity air through  
the carburetor. Dirt is the worst enemy to your engine. Clean the air filter  
after each hour of running to prevent sucking dirt into the engine.  
AFTER-RUN MAINTENANCE  
Perform after-run maintenance on the engine to prevent corrosion  
from building up on the internal engine components. The fuel naturally  
attracts moisture and corrosion can build up very quickly inside the  
engine if it is not prevented.  
Traxxas strongly discourages changing or modifying any part  
of the TRX 3.3 Racing Engine. Old tech tips and tricks that may  
have boosted the power of other engines could seriously diminish the  
performance of the TRX 3.3 Racing Engine.  
There’s more advanced thinking, development and testing in the  
stock parts of your TRX 3.3 Racing Engine than in many aftermarket  
manufacturer’s performance parts. The TRX 3.3 Racing Engine is already  
the most powerful engine in its class and may not benefit from average,  
low-tech, aftermarket bolt on performance items.  
6 REVO PLATINUM EDITION  
THE TRX 3.3 RACING ENGINE  
If 33% improves power, then it seems that the highest nitro content  
available (beyond 33%) should always be used in the engine. In reality,  
there are practical limitations. Engines are designed to run best within  
a range of nitro percentages. How the engine is ported, the size of the  
combustion chamber and other factors determine how much nitro can  
be efficiently used in the engine. The TRX 3.3 Racing Engine responds  
exceptionally well to a maximum of 33% nitro, returning cooler temps,  
more power, and a smoother throttle response. For those who want to  
run higher nitro, 33% Top Fuel is the optimum nitro percentage for the  
TRX 3.3 Racing Engine. Increasing the nitro beyond 33% can introduce  
the need for engine modifications (ports, head shimming, etc.) to avoid  
starting and tuning difficulties. There are limits to how much nitro an  
engine can effectively use to make more power. Lower nitro percentages  
have their own advantages. Nitro is an expensive component in the  
fuel so 10% nitro blend is more economical for the sport user. 10% also  
provides greater latitude with the needle settings for easier tuning.  
People have differing opinions on what is the proper procedure  
to break-in a model engine. Only use the Traxxas break-in  
procedure. Other break-in procedures could result in a weak,  
damaged, or otherwise poor performing engine. The procedure  
outlined here was extensively tested and proven to yield better  
performing engines than other “common” break-in methods.  
Even if you have years of experience using model engines, please  
do not ignore this caution!  
Engine Break-in Procedure  
The focus during break-in is to vary and limit the engine speed. This will  
be accomplished by accelerating and stopping at different rates for the first  
5 tanks of fuel. As the engine begins to break-in, the duration and intensity  
of the acceleration will gradually increase. Sustained high-speed running  
is not permitted until the 6th tank of fuel. Perform the initial break-in  
on a large, flat, paved surface. Revo is very fast and by tanks 4 and 5 you  
will need plenty of room for the truck to run in. Apply all throttle and  
braking actions gently. Abrupt acceleration or braking could cause the  
engine to stall unnecessarily.  
When using Traxxas Top Fuel, using higher nitro percentages does not  
cause the engine to wear out faster. 33% Top Fuel contains the same  
quality lubrication package as 10 and 20% Top Fuel. Some non-Traxxas  
high-percentage nitro racing fuels do sacrifice some lubrication in  
attempts to increase performance. We urge you to not take chances with  
your engine investment and use Top Fuel for consistent performance and  
long engine life.  
• Special break-in fuels are not recommended. Use the same fuel you plan  
to use everyday.  
• If possible, avoid breaking-in the engine on extremely hot or cold days  
(see page 9).  
• Pay careful attention to the fuel level. Do not allow the fuel tank to run  
completely empty. An extremely low fuel level causes the mixture to  
run too lean. This could result in a burned glow plug or extremely high  
engine temperatures.  
Handling the Fuel  
Follow all directions and warnings on the fuel can.  
• Keep the fuel tightly capped at all times. Some components in the fuel  
can evaporate very quickly and upset the balance of the fuel.  
Do not attempt to break in the TRX 3.3 Racing Engine by idling it on a  
• Do not store unused fuel in the fuel dispenser. Immediately return fresh  
unused fuel back into the fuel can.  
stand. This will produce poor results.  
• Keep extra Traxxas glow plugs handy. The break-in process can cause  
deposits to form on the plug leading to plug failure.  
• Do not mix old and new fuel. Never mix different fuel brands together.  
• Store the fuel in a cool dry location, away from any source of heat,  
ignition, flame or combustion.  
• Change or clean your air filter after break-in.  
• Follow the instructions exactly for each of the first 5 tanks of fuel.  
• Read and follow the safety precautions on page 3 in this manual.  
• Never run your Revo indoors. Since the TRX 3.3 Racing Engine  
exhaust fumes are harmful, always run your model outdoors, in a  
well-ventilated area.  
DANGER! Model engine fuel is poisonous to humans and animals.  
Drinking the fuel can cause blindness and death. Handle with care  
and respect. Keep it out of reach of small children at all times! While  
driving, do not leave your fuel dispensing bottle on the ground  
where a child could have access to it. Follow fuel label warnings.  
• Read and follow the safety precautions on page 3 in this manual.  
Starting Your TRX 3.3 Racing Engine for the First Time  
Before you start your TRX 3.3 Racing Engine for the first time, make sure  
you have read all instructions and precautions in this manual. Pay close  
attention to the tank-by-tank break-in instructions in the next section,  
and make sure you have read and understood them before you run  
your engine.  
BREAKING IN YOUR TRX 3.3 RACING ENGINE  
The TRX 3.3 Racing Engine uses a ringless, aluminum-brass-chrome (ABC)  
piston/sleeve construction. This type of engine design relies on a very precise  
running fit between the piston and sleeve for cylinder sealing. Engine break-  
in is necessary to allow the piston and sleeve to develop an extremely  
precise fit and optimum cylinder sealing. Therefore, proper engine break-  
in is critical to achieving the fastest, most reliable engine performance.  
Your TRX 3.3 Racing Engine doesn’t usually require priming. If you  
do need to prime your engine, watch the fuel line carefully to avoid  
flooding your engine.  
1
2
Allow yourself about 1 to 1 / hours to complete the break-in procedure. The  
engine break-in period will take 5 tanks of fuel in a Revo. The break-in time  
is not the time to impress your friends with your new Revo. You must wait  
until the engine is fully broken in before attempting sustained high speed  
running. Patience and careful attention during break-in will reward you with  
the best-performing TRX 3.3 Racing Engine possible.  
Your engine must be at room temperature (70°F or 21° C) or above the  
first time you start it. If it’s cooler than room temperature outside, remove  
all fuel and keep your Revo indoors until you’re ready to start it and then  
take it outside. If it’s colder than 45 degrees, special considerations should  
be made. See cold weather break-in on page 9. We do not recommend  
running the model in temperatures below 35 degrees.  
During break-in, your engine may appear to malfunction with symptoms  
like stalling, inconsistent performance, and fouled glow plugs. These are  
simply the normal “break-in pains” engines sometimes go through. They  
will disappear once your engine is fully broken in. Many owners report  
not experiencing any of these symptoms with TRX Racing Engines. We  
recommend to go ahead and replace the glow plug with a new one after  
the engine break in procedure.  
Note: The initial startup fuel mixture settings have been pre-set at the  
factory. Do not change the settings.  
1. Turn on the radio system.  
2. Make sure the throttle trigger on the transmitter is in the idle  
(neutral) position.  
REVO PLATINUM EDITION  
7
THE TRX 3.3 RACING ENGINE  
3. Connect the glow igniter to the engine.  
Tank 2  
4. Place the model on a starter box and engage  
the starter. Watch for fuel moving through  
the fuel line up to the carburetor. Watch  
closely! The fuel moves very fast. If the fuel  
doesn’t move through the line within 5  
1. From tank 2 forward, Revo should be driven with the body on.  
2. Driving procedure: Gently pull the throttle trigger to 1/2 throttle  
over a 2-second count. Then gently apply the brake to stop. Count  
the two seconds out while accelerating: one thousand one, one  
thousand two, and then stop. Repeat this starting and stopping  
procedure until the second tank of fuel is nearly empty.  
3. When the fuel tank is nearly empty, shut off the engine and let it cool  
for 15 minutes.  
seconds, prime the engine by briefly (one  
or two seconds) covering the exhaust outlet  
with your finger until the fuel is just visible in  
the carburetor fuel line. Watch carefully! If  
the engine is primed too long, it will flood with fuel and stop turning.  
5. Once fuel reaches the carburetor, the engine should quickly start and idle.  
6. Disconnect the glow igniter from the model.  
7. Proceed with the engine break-in.  
Tank 3  
1. Driving procedure: Gently pull the throttle trigger to 1/2 throttle  
over a 3-second count. Then gently apply the brake to stop. Count  
the three seconds out while accelerating: one thousand one, one  
thousand two, one thousand three, and then stop. Repeat this  
starting and stopping procedure until the third tank of fuel is nearly  
empty.  
2. As the engine loosens, the idle speed may increase and cause  
the model to try to creep forward when stopped. Reduce the  
idle speed by turning the idle adjustment on the carburetor  
counterclockwise.  
8. Do not rev your engine with no load (wheels off the ground).  
If your engine doesn’t start, refer to the troubleshooting tips on www.  
traxxas.com/support. If you still have problems, contact Traxxas Customer  
Support at 1-888-TRAXXAS or [email protected].  
Factory Needle Settings  
If your factory preset carburetor adjustments  
have been tampered with, use the following settings:  
3. When the fuel tank is nearly empty, shut off the engine and refuel.  
From here on, you do not need to let the engine cool between tanks.  
• Set the high-speed needle to 4 turns out  
from closed.  
Fig. A  
Tank 4  
1. Driving procedure: Gently pull the throttle trigger to full throttle  
over a 3-second count. Then gently apply the brake to stop. Count  
the three seconds out while accelerating: one thousand one, one  
thousand two, one thousand three, and then stop. Repeat this  
starting and stopping procedure until the fourth tank of fuel is  
nearly empty.  
2. Apply the throttle gradually! Your finger should not reach full throttle  
until the end of the three-second count. Revo may try to shift into  
second gear. If it does, reduce the throttle input. Do not let Revo shift  
out of first gear.  
• Set the low-speed needle so the screw  
head (red in Fig. A) is flush (even) with the  
end of the slide (yellow in Fig. A).  
Low Speed  
Needle Adjustment  
Always use the factory settings for initial  
starting. Only use these settings when the  
factory settings have been lost.  
Break-in Checklist  
Tank 1  
3. Keep your driving smooth and consistent.  
4. When the fuel tank is nearly empty, shut off the engine and refuel.  
1. Drive the model with the body off.  
2. Driving procedure: Gently pull the throttle trigger to 1/4 throttle  
over a 2-second count. Then gently apply the brake to stop. Count  
the two seconds out while accelerating: one thousand one, one  
thousand two, and then stop. Operate the throttle trigger as smoothly  
as you can. Repeat this starting and stopping procedure until the  
first tank of fuel is nearly empty.  
3. Look for thick blue smoke exiting the exhaust outlet. If there is  
no smoke, richen the high-speed needle 1/4 turn, by turning the  
needle counterclockwise.  
Tank 5  
1. Driving procedure: Gently pull the throttle trigger to full throttle  
over a 3-second count, hold for 2 more seconds, and then  
gently apply the brake to stop. Count the five seconds out while  
accelerating. Repeat this starting and stopping procedure until the  
fifth tank of fuel is nearly empty.  
2. The model should now be shifting into second gear. If it is not, try  
turning the high-speed needle clockwise 1/8 turn to lean the fuel  
mixture slightly and test for shifting.  
4. When the fuel tank is nearly empty, shut off the engine by pinching  
the fuel line connected to the carburetor (use the installed clamp).  
5. Let the engine cool for 15 minutes.  
3. When the fuel tank is nearly empty, shut off the engine and refuel.  
Tank 6  
Note: If at any point the engine cuts out or stalls during gentle  
acceleration, richen the high-speed needle 1/4 turn by turning the  
needle counterclockwise.  
STOP! Clean your air filter before you proceed. During the sixth tank of  
fuel, the engine can be tuned for general performance use.  
TANK THROTTLE  
TIME  
COOL  
BODY  
NOTES  
1
2
3
4
5
1/4  
1/2  
1/2  
Full  
Full  
2 seconds  
2 seconds  
3 seconds  
3 seconds  
5 seconds  
15 minutes  
Off  
On  
On  
On  
On  
Apply throttle gradually.  
15 minutes  
Apply throttle gradually.  
-
-
-
Reduce idle speed if necessary.  
Do not allow shifting to high gear.  
Accelerate over 3 second count, hold for 2 seconds.  
8 REVO PLATINUM EDITION  
THE TRX 3.3 RACING ENGINE  
Winter Break-in Tips  
During the break-in process, the piston  
and sleeve wear into each other to form a  
TUNING YOUR TRX 3.3 RACING ENGINE  
The engine’s performance  
depends on the fuel  
precise fit. The engine needs to heat up to a  
temperature around 200 to 215 degrees to  
allow the piston and sleeve to achieve this  
fit properly. A precise fit between these two  
components is critical for proper compression,  
and optimum performance. If the engine  
mixture. Turn the mixture  
needles clockwise to  
lean the fuel mixture  
and counterclockwise  
to richen it. Leaning the  
fuel mixture will increase  
runs too cold during break-in, the piston and  
sleeve will not expand to their appropriate sizes for break-in, and this can  
lead to premature wear of these components. This wear may not become  
apparent until after winter has past, and the engine is operated under  
warmer running conditions.  
engine power up to the  
engine’s mechanical limits.  
Never run the engine  
too lean (not enough  
fuel flow). Never lean the engine  
until it begins to cut-out or stall.  
Leaning the engine beyond the safe  
allowable limits will result in poor  
performance and almost certain  
engine damage. Indications of an  
overly lean mixture include:  
• Warm the engine to approximately room temperature by removing  
all fuel and storing the vehicle inside at room temperature until just  
before starting the engine. An extremely cold engine can become  
difficult to start.  
• After the engine is running, it is important to keep the temperature of  
the engine up around 200 to 215 degrees during break-in. In weather  
below 45 degrees, the TRX 3.3 Racing Engine will tend to run at lower  
temperatures between 160 to 180 degrees (when tuned at proper  
break-in mixture settings). This is too cool for break-in. Do not lean the  
fuel mixture to increase engine temperature! This will also decrease  
lubrication and cause your piston/sleeve to wear prematurely.  
Cutting out or sudden loss of power during acceleration.  
• Overheating (temperature beyond 270° F at the glow plug).  
• Little or no blue smoke coming from the exhaust.  
If any of these conditions are present, stop immediately and richen the  
high speed mixture 1/4 turn. The engine will probably be slightly rich at  
that setting and you can then retune for performance. Always tune for  
performance by starting rich and moving leaner toward the ideal setting.  
Never try to tune from the lean side. There should always be a light  
stream of blue smoke coming from the exhaust.  
• Wrap the cooling head with a paper towel, clean rag or sock to help  
keep the engine running around the recommended 200 to 215 break-  
in temp. If too much heat is contained, the engine can actually run too  
hot. Make sure that you monitor the engine’s temp closely for the first  
couple of tanks until you get the right amount of cover for the cooling  
head. This will, of course, depend on your current weather conditions.  
Adjusting the cover up and down, exposing more or fewer cooling fins,  
is a convenient way to regulate engine temps.  
Before you begin tuning, the engine should be warmed up to its normal  
operating temperature and running slightly rich. All final tuning adjustments  
must be made to the engine at its normal operating temperature. You can  
tell the engine is running rich by noting any of the following:  
• Sluggish acceleration with blue smoke coming from the exhaust.  
• Revo may not shift into second gear.  
• There is unburned fuel spraying from the exhaust tip.  
• Leaning the high-speed fuel mixture increases performance.  
• For owners that do not have access to a temperature probe, a drop of  
water on the cooling head (around the glow plug area) should slowly  
sizzle for approximately 6 to 8 seconds around 200 to 210 degrees. If the  
water sizzles for only a few seconds, then it is likely that it is over 220  
degrees, and needs to cool down. If the water takes a long time or does  
not evaporate at all, then the engine is too cool.  
High-Speed Fuel Mixture Adjustment  
With the engine warm and running at a rich setting, gradually lean  
the high-speed fuel mixture in 1/16 turn increments. Make several  
high-speed passes after each adjustment to clear out the engine and  
note any change in performance. The TRX 3.3 is extremely powerful.  
Remember to apply the throttle gradually to prevent wheelies or loss of  
control. Continue this procedure until there is no longer any performance  
improvement. If any one of the following conditions occurs, the fuel  
mixture is already past the maximum safe lean setting:  
• We do not recommend that you operate your engine below 35 degrees  
Fahrenheit. If you insist on running your vehicle below 35 degrees,  
be aware that nitro engines may be very difficult to start and tune at  
extremely cold temperatures. Also, at temperatures below freezing, nitro  
fuel can actually begin to gel, and this can be harmful to the engine.  
Follow the remaining break-in procedures as outlined in this Owners  
Manual. This, along with the steps listed above, will ensure a good break-  
in for your new nitro engine, and provide many hours of enjoyment.  
1. There is no longer any performance improvement.  
2. The engine begins to cut out at high speed (Danger!).  
3. There is a sudden loss of power during acceleration (Danger!).  
4. The engine begins to overheat. Symptoms of overheating include:  
• Steam or smoke coming from the engine (not exhaust).  
• Hesitation or stalling during acceleration.  
High Altitude Operation: If you live in a high altitude region (5000  
or more feet above sea level), the lower air density may require  
you to lean your high-speed fuel mixture slightly from the factory  
break in settings. Try this if you are experiencing difficult starting  
or extremely sluggish engine performance at high altitude.  
• Popping or clattering sound when decelerating (detonation).  
• Fluctuating idle speed.  
• Temperature measurement above 270° F at the glow plug (A  
temperature reading above 270° alone does not necessarily indicate  
overheating. Look for other symptoms of overheating combined with  
temperature for a more accurate warning).  
REVO PLATINUM EDITION  
9
THE TRX 3.3 RACING ENGINE  
Richen the fuel mixture to the optimum setting by richening the high-  
speed needle at least 1/8 turn counterclockwise and retest. This setting  
will extend engine component life.  
Tuning the Engine by Temperature  
The following procedures require an optional  
infrared temperature probe or on-board  
temperature gauge (Traxxas on-board digital  
temperature gauge, part #4091). Engine  
temperature can be used as an effective tuning  
Low-Speed Fuel Mixture Adjustment  
The low-speed mixture is always set after the high-speed needle is correctly  
adjusted. The low-speed mixture is set using the pinch test.  
aid when you understand the relationship between engine temperature  
and ambient temperature. The engine operating temperature, when  
tuned for maximum performance, will vary according to atmospheric  
conditions, engine load, gauge accuracy, and many other factors. The  
atmospheric condition that has the most influence on engine temperature  
is air temperature. Expect the engine temperature to vary almost in direct  
proportion to air temperature. Assuming you tuned the engine for the same  
maximum performance each day, the engine will run about twenty degrees  
hotter when it’s ninety degrees outside than it would in seventy-degree  
weather. For this reason, we cannot give you a definitive temperature range  
that indicates the best possible engine tuning.  
1. Once the engine is warm, do several high-speed runs to confirm  
that the high-speed needle is set correctly.  
2. Bring the vehicle in and pinch closed the fuel line going into the carburetor  
(use the engine shut-off clamp). The engine should run for 2-3 seconds,  
speed up, and then shut off.  
3. If the engine runs longer than 3 seconds, then lean the low-speed needle  
1/16 turn, make several more high-speed runs, and retest.  
4. If the engine shuts off immediately without speeding up, then richen the  
low-speed needle 1/8 turn, make several more high-speed runs, and retest.  
When the low-speed needle is set correctly, the engine’s throttle response  
should be very quick, even to the point of making it difficult to keep Revo  
from doing a wheelie when you accelerate!  
There is NO optimal temperature that can be used as a target to deliver  
the best engine tuning. Do not rely on a temp gauge alone to tune your  
engine. Tune the engine by paying very close attention to how it responds  
to changes in fuel mixture (more smoke/less smoke, fast/sluggish, reliable/  
stalling, smooth sound/ muffled sound, etc). Once the engine is tuned, then  
observe the temperature.  
Idle Speed Adjustment  
Once the high and low-speed mixtures have been set, reduce the idle speed  
to the minimum reliable idle speed. Remember, this adjustment should be  
made while the engine is running at normal operating temperature.  
The temperature gauge can aid you in tuning by giving you a relative  
indication of how your adjustments are affecting the engine and to help  
prevent you from reaching excessive engine temperatures. For example,  
as you lean the fuel mixture, the engine performance will increase along  
with the temperature. If you continue to lean the fuel mixture and the  
temperature increases but the engine performance does not change, then  
you have exceeded the maximum safe lean setting. Make note of the engine  
temperature. Generally, try to keep your engine from exceeding 270°F when  
measured at the glow plug. If necessary, increase airflow to the engine by  
cutting out the rear of the body, windshield, and front valance. In some  
situations, the engine may perform very well with no stalling, lagging, or  
hesitation at temperatures above 270°F, particularly in very hot climates.  
If richening the fuel mixture to bring the temperature down to 270°F results  
in poor, sluggish performance (engine never cleans out) then return the  
engine back to a satisfactory state of tune based on how it sounds and  
performs (always with a visible stream of blue smoke coming from the  
exhaust). If engine temperature is exceeding 270°F with proper cooling  
and no signs of abnormal running, then avoid running the engine at its  
maximum lean setting. Watch closely for any signs of overheating.  
Richen the fuel mixture slightly to provide a safety margin of additional  
cooling lubrication. Symptoms of overheating include:  
1. Turn the throttle trim on the transmitter so the brakes are  
applied (note its original position). This ensures that the throttle  
slide is resting against the idle adjustment screw.  
2. Turn the screw counterclockwise to reduce the idle speed, or clockwise  
to increase it. The idle speed should be set as low as possible while still  
maintaining reliable running characteristics.  
3. Reset the throttle trim on the transmitter to its original position.  
Fine-Tuning the Carburetor  
After fine-tuning your TRX 3.3 Racing Engine at the end of the break-in  
procedure, no major adjustments to the fuel mixture are usually necessary.  
Make note of the temperature, humidity, and barometric pressure at the time  
you finished fine tuning your carburetor. Current weather conditions can be  
found online from national websites, local TV news websites, and television.  
This information will be considered your baseline setting.  
You may need to adjust your carburetor needles to compensate for changes  
in temperature and barometric pressure (air density) from day to day.  
Generally, you’ll need to richen the fuel mixture when the weather is colder  
than your baseline temperature and the air density is higher. Lean the fuel  
mixture when weather is warmer than your baseline temperature and the  
air density is lower. The chart below provides general guidelines on how  
weather conditions affect air density when they move higher or lower than  
your baseline setting.  
• Steam or smoke coming from the engine (not exhaust).  
• Hesitation or stalling during acceleration.  
• Popping or clattering sound when decelerating (detonation).  
• Fluctuating idle speed.  
Fuel Mixture Adjustment Chart  
adjust (correct) the  
fuel mixture to be...  
slightly richer  
slightly leaner  
leaner  
richer  
richer  
leaner  
richer  
leaner  
leaner  
If the...  
is...  
then the air density is...  
slightly more dense  
slightly less dense  
less dense  
more dense  
more dense  
less dense  
more dense  
less dense  
-
humidity  
lower  
higher  
lower  
higher  
lower  
higher  
lower  
higher  
lower  
higher  
pressure (barometer)  
temperature  
altitude  
nitro %  
-
richer  
10 REVO PLATINUM EDITION  
TUNING ADJUSTMENTS  
SUSPENSION AND ALIGNMENT SETTINGS  
Bump Steer Elimination Chart  
Roll Center  
The illustrations and the following table detail the position of the outer  
toe link end for various caster and roll center settings to eliminate bump  
steer. The shims and the hollow balls used to adjust bump steer are  
provided with your vehicle.  
There are two holes on the bulkheads  
Upper Control Arm  
to mount each upper suspension arm.  
The roll center of the vehicle can be  
raised by mounting the upper control  
arm in the lower of the two holes. This  
will effectively increase the roll stiffness  
of the vehicle (similar to installing  
swaybars). Adding roll resistance to  
one end of the vehicle will tend to  
add traction to the opposite end.  
For example, increasing roll resistance in the rear by installing the upper  
arms in the lower holes will provide more traction for the front wheels and  
potentially more steering. Installing the upper arms in the lower holes on  
the front and rear will increase overall roll resistance without changing the  
handling balance. From the factory, the arms are installed in the upper  
position in the front and the lower position in the rear for track tuning. Note:  
When the suspension arms are moved to the either mounting holes, the  
front outer toe link ends and the rear toe control links should be repositioned  
to eliminate bump steer. Refer to the Bump Steer Elimination chart on this  
page, and look up your suspension combination (caster angle and roll center  
position) to find the correct position for the front outer toe links and the rear  
toe control links. Adjustment is achieved using the shims and hollow balls  
provided with the vehicle.  
Upper Mounting Holes  
Control Arm  
Mounting Hole on  
Front Bulkhead  
FRONT  
Caster  
Upper Control Arm  
Lower Mounting Holes  
Outer Toe Link End Setup  
5° 7.5° 10° 12.5° 15°  
Standard  
Upper  
Lower  
Upper  
Lower  
Upper  
Lower  
Upper  
Lower  
Upper  
Hollow Ball  
Thin Shim  
Thick Shim  
Thin Shim  
Standard  
Hollow Ball  
Thick Shim  
Tall Center  
Hollow Ball  
Thick Shim  
Standard  
Hollow Ball  
Caster adjustment shims (4 front, 0 rear)  
Caster Adjustment  
The caster angle of the front  
Thin Shim  
suspension may be used to adjust  
the understeer (push)/oversteer  
handling characteristics of the model.  
Generally, increasing the caster  
angle will move the truck towards an  
oversteer condition (more traction  
on the front tires, less on the rear  
tires). Decreasing the caster angle will  
create a tendency towards understeer  
(pushing in the turns). From the  
factory, the front suspension is set  
to a caster angle of 15-degrees. The  
Thick Shim  
Thin Shim  
Standard  
Hollow Ball  
Control Arm  
Mounting Hole on  
Rear Bulkhead  
Outer Toe Link  
End Setup  
REAR  
Tall Lower  
Hollow Ball  
Upper  
Lower  
When the rear upper control  
15°  
arms are mounted in the upper  
of its two mounting holes in  
the bulkhead (roll center), the  
tall lower hollow ball should  
be used.  
Ground plane  
Tall Center  
Hollow Ball  
(stock)  
rear caster angle is not adjustable.  
The caster angle of the front  
Number & Position of Caster Adjustment  
Shims (Front Upper Control Arm)  
In Front of  
Behind Hinge  
Pin Boss  
suspension can be adjusted from  
5° to 15°. Adjust the caster by  
positioning the caster adjustment  
shims on the upper control arms  
of the front suspension as shown  
in the table to the right.  
Caster Hinge Pin Boss  
5.0°  
7.5°  
None  
One  
Four  
Three  
Two  
Rockers (Progressive Rate/ Suspension Travel)  
One of the most exciting aspects of Revo’s suspension is the inboard shock  
(damper) arrangement that uses pivoting rockers to translate vertical wheel  
travel into linear shock motion. The rockers can be changed to increase or  
decrease the maximum wheel travel and also to change the progressive rate  
of the suspension.  
10.0°  
12.5°  
15.0°  
Two  
Three  
Four  
One  
None  
Caster Angle, and Bump Steer  
Bump steer is unwanted change in the steering angle of the wheels as the  
suspension travels up and down. It can result in unstable and unpredictable  
handling. Bump steer is affected by the position of the outer toe link end  
on the axle carrier. From the factory, the toe links are positioned so that  
bump steer is virtually eliminated (about 3/100 of a degree through the  
entire range of travel). When the caster angle is changed, the outer toe link  
end should be repositioned on the axle carrier to maintain zero bump steer  
geometry. Adjustment is achieved using the shims and hollow balls provided  
with the vehicle. Refer to the Bump Steer Elimination chart and look up  
your caster angle setting to find the correct position for the outer toe links.  
Positioning the toe-links correctly will maintain the original factory geometry  
and eliminate the unwanted steering angle changes caused by bump steer.  
The progressive rate determines how much the force at the wheel  
produced by the springs being compressed (wheel force) will vary with  
suspension travel (or vertical travel of the wheel). On a progressive  
suspension arrangement, the wheel force will increase at a faster and  
faster rate as the suspension is compressed. It feels as though the shock  
spring gets progressively stiffer the more you compress the suspension.  
On a linear suspension arrangement, the wheel force increases linearly as  
the suspension is compressed. The spring does not feel any stiffer, even  
when the suspension is fully compressed. This provides a very “plush” feeling  
suspension with seemingly bottomless suspension travel.  
A total of four different rocker arm sets are available for Revo. All rocker arms  
except the Long Travel rocker arms will allow the wheel to travel a total of  
REVO PLATINUM EDITION 11  
TUNING ADJUSTMENTS  
Rocker Arm  
Total Travel  
Progressive Rate  
can be achieved by installing the optional adjustable push rod in the  
outermost hole of the lower suspension arm’s push rod mount. Turn the  
rod ends all the way in until they stop (shortening the length).  
90mm  
(60mm up / 30mm down)  
Progressive 1  
Low  
90mm  
The optional Long Travel rocker arms are designed to be used only with  
the standard non-adjustable push rods installed in the hole labeled “LT”  
(the middle hole of the lower suspension arm’s push rod mount). Any  
minor adjustments to the ride height are accomplished by adjusting the  
spring pre-load.  
Progressive 2  
Progressive 3  
Long Travel  
Medium  
High  
(60mm up / 30mm down)  
90mm  
(60mm up / 30mm down)  
120mm  
(80mm up / 40mm down)  
Low  
Adjusting the Pivot Ball Caps  
90mm in the vertical direction. From the ride height position, the wheel  
will be able to travel 60mm in the upward direction (bump), and 30mm  
in the downward direction (droop). The Long Travel rocker arm increases  
total travel to 120mm. The progressive rate can be increased or decreased  
by installing different rocker arm sets. The rockers are labeled Progressive  
1 to Progressive 3. Progressive 1 rockers will provide a low progressive rate  
that maintains consistent damping force across through the whole range of  
suspension travel. These are best for extremely rough terrain that requires  
maximum suspension articulation. Progressive 3 rockers use high progressive  
rate that will improve high-speed cornering on smooth surfaces by providing  
a firmer feel. Body roll, brake dive and rear squat will also be reduced. Always  
change all four rockers as a complete set. Do not mix rates and travel.  
The pivot ball caps should be adjusted so  
that the pivot balls operate freely in the  
axle carriers with no excess play. Use the  
provided four-way suspension multi-tool to  
tighten or loosen the pivot ball cap.  
Toe Adjustment  
The wheels can be adjusted to point  
straight ahead or have a toe-in or toe-  
out setting. To help you remember, look  
down at your feet. For toe-in, your feet  
point towards each other. For toe-out,  
your feet point away from each other.  
Using rockers with lower progressive rate may require the use of stiffer  
springs to maintain proper spring pre-load and ride height. The spring  
pre-load adjuster on each shock is designed for minor adjustments. If the  
adjuster needs to be turned all the way down (compressing the spring) in  
order to maintain proper ride height, then the next stiffer spring should  
be used.  
The toe angle of the front wheels can be  
adjusted by varying the length of the toe  
links that connect the steering linkage to  
the front axle carriers. The toe angle of  
the rear wheels can be adjusted by  
varying the length of the metal toe links  
Increase  
Length  
The chart demonstrates the  
effect of the various rocker  
arms on wheel force as the  
suspension is compressed.  
On the progressive rate,  
wheel force is light at  
that connect the rear bulkheads to the  
'%  
&-  
&+  
&)  
&'  
&%  
-
+
)
Egd\gZhh^kZꢀ  
GViZꢀIgVkZa  
rear axle carriers. The front toe links  
and rear toe links are equipped with  
turnbuckles. The lengths of the toe links  
can be adjusted by turning them with the  
included 7mm Traxxas wrench.  
8dchiVciꢀ  
GViZꢀIgVkZa  
Decrease  
Length  
'
first and increases as the  
suspension is compressed.  
%
&%  
'%  
(%  
)%  
*%  
+%  
,%  
-%  
.%  
Toe Base Factory Settings  
Front: 0-degrees  
L]ZZaꢀ;dgXZ  
Rear: 1-degree toe-in each side  
Ride Height Adjustment  
The rocker arm suspension uses push rods on each suspension arm.  
Changing the length and/or position of the push rod adjusts the  
ride height without affecting or compromising other suspension  
parameters. For example, you can raise and lower the ride height without  
changing up/down travel distribution, changing springs, or affecting  
your progressive rate. This feature is unique to Revo and is extremely  
beneficial in a racing environment where you can achieve a low center  
of gravity (by lowering the ride height) without losing any suspension  
capability. Increasing the ride height will increase ground clearance for  
rough terrain.  
Under certain conditions, toe-in can be increased to a maximum of 3  
degrees. To avoid potential interference of suspension components with  
the long travel rockers installed, see the maximum alignment limits table  
on page 13.  
All of the toe links were  
Groove indicates left-hand threads  
originally installed on the  
truck so that the left hand  
thread indicators point in the  
same direction. This makes it  
easier to remember which way  
The ride height of the model can be  
changed by mounting the push rod in  
a different hole in the lower suspension  
arm. From the factory, the push rod  
comes installed in the center hole of  
the lower suspension arm’s push rod  
to turn the wrench to increase or decrease toe link length. Note that  
a groove indicates the side of the Tube with the left-hand threads.  
Static Camber Adjustment  
Increases  
Ride Height  
Decreases  
Ride Height  
The wheels can be set to have either positive  
or negative camber (see illustration, page 13).  
The camber angle changes as the wheel moves  
up and down through its range of travel. Static  
camber is the camber angle at the wheel when  
the vehicle is set at its normal, stationary ride  
height. The suspension pivot balls located in the  
axle carriers adjust the static camber. The pivot  
balls are protected by blue dust plugs. To adjust  
mount. If the push rod is mounted in the inner hole, the ride height of the  
vehicle increases. If mounted in the outer hole, the ride height decreases.  
The ride height can be finely tuned by adjusting the sag of the  
suspension. Do not attempt to make large changes to the ride height  
by adjusting the spring pre-load on the shock bodies. If suspension  
sag is severe and requires a large increase of the spring pre-load to  
compensate, then a firmer spring should be used. The lowest ride height  
12 REVO PLATINUM EDITION  
TUNING ADJUSTMENTS  
your static camber, insert the supplied 2.5 mm hex wrench through the  
slit in the dust plug and engage the end of the pivot ball (compressing the  
suspension until the arms are parallel to the ground will allow for easier hex  
wrench engagement). The upper pivot ball is normally screwed all the way in.  
Negative camber is achieved by screwing the pivot ball of the lower control  
arm out. Note: When camber is changed, the toe angle of the wheel has to  
be reset.  
Springs  
The front and rear springs on Revo have different spring rates. The rear  
springs are about 20% stiffer than the front springs. The spring’s pre-  
load tension can be adjusted by turning the spring pre-load adjuster.  
Adjusting the pre-load changes the suspension sag. Suspension sag  
basically defines how much the suspension compresses when the truck  
is at rest. Adjust the pre-load so that the suspension compresses about  
one third of its full suspension travel (see illustration). If suspension  
sag is severe and requires a large increase of the spring pre-load to  
compensate, then a firmer spring should be used. Firmer springs  
(supplied) must be used when the Long Travel rocker arms are installed.  
Static Camber Base Factory Settings  
Front: 1-degree negative camber each side  
Rear: 1-degree negative camber each side  
Use a stiffer spring to reduce  
sag, reduce body lean, control  
brake dive, and provide a firmer,  
more responsive overall feel. If  
Revo is lightened significantly,  
softer springs will be necessary  
to allow the suspension to sag  
#OMPRESSION ꢀꢁꢂ  
Negative camber  
Positive camber  
2IDE (EIGHT  
3AG ꢃ$ROOP ꢄꢁꢂ  
properly. Heavier configurations  
Maximum Alignment Limits (using stock push rod length)  
Revo’s maximum toe and camber alignment settings can be limited  
by the ride height setting. Do not exceed the maximum limits or you  
could experience interference between suspension components. The  
ride height is controlled by where the push rod is installed in the lower  
suspension arm. First determine which of the following configurations  
you are using:  
!XLE #ENTERLINE AT -AX #OMPRESSION  
will require stiffer springs.  
Ride height is adjusted by  
changing the length or position  
of the push rods in the lower  
!XLE #ENTERLINE AT 2IDE (EIGHT  
!XLE #ENTERLINE AT -AX 3AG  
suspension arms. See Ride Height  
Adjustments on page 12. The suspension sag and spring pre-load should  
be readjusted anytime the springs are removed and/or replaced.  
a. Stock Configuration – When the pushrod is in the middle position of the  
lower control arm.  
Optional springs available from Traxxas are listed below. Refer to your  
parts list for a complete part number listing. Higher rate springs are  
stiffer. Springs can be identified by dots of color on one end.  
b. Raised Configuration - When the pushrod is in the raised position to  
increase the vehicle’s ride height (innermost hole in lower control arm).  
90mm Travel  
120mm Travel  
Dot Color  
Yellow  
White  
Orange  
(Standard Front)  
Spring Rate  
Dot Color  
Silver  
(Standard Front)  
Pink  
Blue  
(Standard Rear)  
Spring Rate  
28.0 lb/in (4.9 N/mm)  
c. Lowered Configuration - When the pushrod is in the lowered  
position to decrease the vehicle’s ride height (outermost hole in  
lower control arm).  
14.8 lb/in (2.6 N/mm)  
16.6 lb/in (2.9 N/mm)  
18.3 lb/in (3.2 N/mm)  
30.8 lb/in (5.4 N/mm)  
33.7 lb/in (5.9 N/mm)  
d. Long Travel Configuration – When the pushrod is in the middle  
position of the lower control arm with the Long Travel rockers installed.  
Green  
Gold  
20.0 lb/in (3.5 N/mm)  
21.7 lb/in (3.8 N/mm)  
Purple  
36.5 lb/in (6.4 N/mm)  
(Standard Rear)  
Note: 90mm Travel springs are  
not recommended for use with  
the Long Travel Rockers.  
Front Suspension  
The following are suggested maximum settings for the front suspension  
in order to avoid interference between suspension components:  
Tan  
23.4 lb/in (4.1 N/mm)  
25.1 lb/in (4.4 N/mm)  
Black  
SHOCK TUNING  
Available  
Camber  
Available Toe  
Shock Pistons  
(degrees)  
The shock pistons are Variable Damping Pistons. The piston design greatly  
enhances the tuning ability of the suspension. The key to the shock’s unique  
operation is the flexible plate which seals two of the piston holes. When the  
shock is compressed, full damping rate is delivered. While rebounding, this  
new valve action allows additional bypass of shock fluid, speeding shock  
response. The direction at which the shock responds faster depends on the  
orientation of the piston and valve assembly. This is selectable by flipping  
the piston assembly into the desired position as shown in the diagrams. For  
off-road use, it is generally desirable for the shock to rebound faster than  
compress, requiring the valve plate to be on the top of the piston (stock  
position). The opposite is generally true for on-road use.  
Configuration  
(degrees)  
Toe In Toe Out  
Stock  
Raised  
+3 to -5  
+3 to -1  
+3 to -5  
+3 to -1  
3
1
3
1
3
1
3
1
Lowered  
Long travel  
Rear Suspension  
The following are suggested maximum settings for the rear suspension  
for all configurations. Toe out is not normally used on the rear of Revo.  
Stock  
Flipped  
(Valve on top)  
(Valve on bottom)  
Available  
Camber  
Available Toe  
• Best for On-Road  
(degrees)  
• Best for Off-Road  
Configuration  
(degrees)  
On Compression:  
• Valve Open  
• Faster  
On Compression:  
• Valve Closed  
• Max Rate of  
Toe In Toe Out  
All  
+3 to -5  
3
2
Compression  
Compression  
On Rebound:  
• Valve Closed  
• Slower Rebound  
On Rebound:  
• Valve Open  
• Faster Response  
Compression Rebound  
Compression Rebound  
REVO PLATINUM EDITION 13  
TUNING ADJUSTMENTS  
Shock piston hole sizes  
To further alter the characteristics of the variable  
rate, the diameter of the bypass holes may be fine  
tuned by enlarging them - speeding even further  
the rebound rate. Optional pistons with bypass  
holes that are larger or smaller (1, 2, or 3) than  
the factory installed stock pistons can be used to  
decrease or increase damping respectively.  
9. Fill the shock with new silicone shock oil up to the  
top of the shock body. Slowly move the piston up  
and down (always keeping it submerged in oil) to  
release the air bubbles. Let the shock sit for a few  
minutes to allow any remaining air bubbles to  
surface.  
1
Piston 1:  
1.10 mm  
2
87mm  
Piston 2:  
1.00 mm  
10. Slowly thread the upper cap with the installed  
shock bladder onto the shock body with the  
From the factory, the shocks are filled with  
SAE-50W silicone oil. Only use 100% silicone oil  
in the shock. The stock Revo is equipped with #2  
pistons front and rear.  
suspension multi tool (A). The excess oil will bleed  
out of the small hole in the shock cap. Tighten the  
shock cap until snug. Use the included steel shock  
wrench to hold onto shock body while tightening.  
3
Piston 3:  
0.95 mm  
Stock shock center-  
to-center distance  
Shock disassembly  
11. Reinstall the spring and lower retainer.  
The shocks must be removed from the vehicle and disassembled to change  
the pistons. Use the shock exploded views included with the model to aid  
in the assembly process.  
TRANSMISSION AND DIFFERENTIAL TUNING  
Multi-tool Shock Functions  
1. Remove the spring and lower spring  
Adjusting the Slipper Clutch  
Your Revo is equipped with an adjustable  
Torque-Controlslipper clutch. The  
retainer from the shock.  
2. Remove the shock cap (A) and empty  
slipper clutch is integrated into the  
the shock body of shock oil.  
main spur gear on the transmission. The  
slipper clutch is adjusted by loosening  
the spring-loaded locknut on the slipper  
shaft. Use the supplied 8mm open-end  
3. Remove the lower cap (B) and  
the X-ring from the shock body.  
A. Tighten/Loosen Upper Cap  
4. Use side cutters to grip the shock shaft  
just above the rod end (C). Remove the  
rod end from the shock shaft using the  
suspension multi tool (C).  
metric wrench. To tighten or loosen the  
slipper nut, insert the 2.0mm hex wrench  
into the hole in the end of the slipper shaft. This locks the shaft for  
adjustments. Turn the adjustment nut clockwise to tighten (less slippage)  
and counter-clockwise to loosen (more slippage). The slipper clutch has  
two functions:  
5. Remove the shock shaft with piston  
from the shock body out through  
the top of the shock body.  
1. Limiting the engine’s torque output to the wheels to prevent  
wheelspin on low traction surfaces and help to prevent damage  
to the gears in the transmission during on-throttle landings.  
B. Tighten/Loosen Lower Cap  
Shock assembly  
1. Replace the stock piston with desired  
optional piston. Be careful not to lose  
the thin steel valve or the small washer  
located below the piston.  
2. Protecting the drivetrain from sudden impact or shock loads (such as  
landing from a jump with the engine at full throttle).  
From the factory the slipper clutch is set for minimal slippage, just  
enough to protect the drivetrain from shock loads. On slippery, low  
traction surfaces such as a hard-packed, dry racetrack you may benefit  
from loosening the slipper adjustment nut to allow for more clutch  
slippage. This will make the truck easier and more forgiving to drive  
by helping to reduce the amount of wheel spin. Loosening the slipper  
adjustment can also improve performance on extreme high traction  
surfaces by preventing the front end from lifting off of the ground when  
accelerating. Make slipper adjustments in small 1/8 turn increments.  
2. Position the new piston onto the shock  
shaft above the small washer. Grip the  
threads of the shaft with side cutters  
C. Remove/Install Rod End  
or needlenose pliers and tighten the  
nut with the 4-way wrench to secure the  
assembly. Only tighten the nut enough to  
remove vertical “play” of the piston. Over  
tightening the nut will deform the steel  
valve and cause the shock to malfunction.  
The piston should be free to rotate on the  
shaft when tightened.  
The maximum tight setting for the slipper is just at the point where  
there is little or no tire slippage on a high traction surface such as carpet  
or a prepared racetrack. The slipper should not be tightened to the point  
that clutch slippage is completely eliminated. Do not overtighten the  
slipper nut or you could damage the slipper bearings, pressure plates, or  
other components.  
Piston Installation/Removal  
3. Insert the shock shaft assembly through the  
shock body until the piston bottoms out.  
4. Lubricate the shaft and X-ring with silicone oil.  
5. Install the X-ring over the shaft and into the  
bore of the shock body.  
6. Install the lower cap using the suspension  
multi tool (B).  
7. Slide the bump stop onto the shaft.  
8. Grip the shaft close to the threads with needle nose pliers or side  
cutters and thread the rod end onto the shock shaft until the rod end  
bottoms out (C).  
14 REVO PLATINUM EDITION  
TUNING ADJUSTMENTS  
4. Remove the three screws on the slipper clutch  
Adjusting the Two-Speed Transmission  
assembly using a 2.5mm hex wrench. Slide the  
spur gear off of the slipper shaft. If the spur gear  
is too tight on the shaft, gently pry on the back  
of the gear with a flat screw driver to loosen it.  
Revo comes equipped with an adjustable two-speed transmission. When  
the shift point on the transmission is adjusted correctly, it will maximize  
acceleration and improve driveability. Use a 2mm hex wrench to adjust the  
shift point. To make the adjustment, the engine must be off (not running).  
Repeat the above steps in reverse order to install  
the new spur gear.  
1. Remove the rubber access plug from  
the top of the transmission housing.  
2. While looking through the opening,  
rotate the spur gear to align the cutout  
(notch) on the internal two-speed clutch  
drum with the opening.  
Adjusting the Gear Ratio  
The gear ratio on Revo can be adjusted for different conditions that may  
require either increased acceleration or increased top speed. Adjusting the  
gear ratio is accomplished by changing the clutch bell on the engine and/  
or the spur gear (slipper clutch gear) on the transmission. From the factory,  
Revo is equipped with a 15-tooth clutch bell and a 38-tooth spur gear. This  
combination will provide a good balance of acceleration and top speed.  
Optional spur gears and clutch bell gears are listed on your parts list. Refer  
to the gear ratio chart for possible gearing combinations.  
3. Hold the spur gear and slowly roll the  
truck forward until the hex on the black  
adjustment set screw becomes visible in  
the opening. Note: the truck will only roll  
forward (not backwards) when the spur gear  
is held stationary.  
Adjusting the Two-Speed Ratios  
4. Insert the 2.0mm hex wrench through the  
Revo is equipped to allow adjustment to the two-speed by installing  
optional standard and wide-ratio gearsets. This requires transmission  
The standard ratio gearsets will increase top speed slightly. The optional  
wide-ratio gear set can also be installed in the Revo. The additional  
horsepower and torque output of the TRX 3.3 engine provides seamless  
shifting even with the larger gap between first and second gears. The gear  
ratio chart shows the available combinations with optional spur gears,  
clutch bells, and two-speed gear sets.  
clutch drum and into the adjustment screw.  
5. Turn the adjustment screw 1/8 turn  
counter clockwise to lower the shift point  
(shifts sooner). Be careful not to loosen the  
adjustment screw too much or you may cause  
the screw and spring to fall out (requiring  
major disassembly and repair). Turn the  
adjustment screw clockwise for later shifts.  
6. Reinstall the rubber access plug to prevent  
dirt from entering the transmission. Do  
not put oil or other lubricants into the  
transmission through the two-speed  
adjustment access.  
Shift  
Sooner  
Gear Ratio Chart  
# of Spur Gear Teeth  
36 38 40  
With 14T Clutch Bell  
2nd gear sets  
Gear  
17T/39T  
1st  
2nd  
1st  
2nd  
1st  
24.21 25.55 26.90  
16.79 17.72 18.66  
24.21 25.55 26.90  
18.30 19.31 20.33  
24.21 25.55 26.90  
15.45 16.31 17.17  
7. Check performance by running a test lap after each adjustment. On a  
small race track with many tight turns, try setting the shift point later  
so that the truck only shifts into second gear on the main straightaway.  
This will prevent an unexpected shift in the middle of a turn. On larger  
tracks it may be necessary to allow earlier shifts for increased speed.  
(Standard)  
16T/40T  
(Close)  
18T/38T  
(Wide)  
2nd  
Adjusting the Spur Gear/Clutch Bell Gear Mesh  
The ideal spur gear/clutch bell gear mesh for  
Revo is 0.1mm. To set the gear mesh, place  
a strip of standard letter/A4 size copy or  
# of Spur Gear Teeth  
With 15T Clutch Bell (standard)  
2nd gear sets  
17T/39T  
(Standard)  
Gear  
1st  
2nd  
1st  
2nd  
1st  
2nd  
36  
38  
40  
22.59 23.85 25.10  
15.67 16.54 17.41  
22.59 23.85* 25.10  
17.08 18.03* 18.97  
22.59 23.85 25.10  
14.42 15.22 16.02  
printer paper (about 0.1mm thick) between  
the mating teeth. Loosen the two horizontal  
engine mount screws and slide the engine  
mount up to push the clutch bell gear against  
the spur gear so that the that the paper is not  
too tight to pull out or too loose that it will fall  
out. Tighten the two horizontal engine mount  
screws securely. When the paper is removed,  
you should feel only the slightest amount of  
play between the gears (almost none) and  
there should be no binding or friction.  
16T/40T  
(Close)  
18T/38T  
(Wide)  
# of Spur Gear Teeth  
With 16T Clutch Bell  
2nd gear sets  
Gear  
36  
38  
40  
17T/39T  
1st  
2nd  
1st  
2nd  
1st  
21.18 22.36 23.54  
14.69 15.51 16.32  
21.18 22.36 23.54  
16.01 16.90 17.79  
21.18 22.36 23.54  
13.52 14.27 15.02  
(Standard)  
16T/40T  
(Close)  
18T/38T  
(Wide)  
2nd  
Changing the Spur Gear  
1. Remove the four cap head screws that  
# of Spur Gear Teeth  
With 17T Clutch Bell  
2nd gear sets  
Gear  
36  
38  
40  
secure the engine to the engine mount.  
17T/39T  
1st  
2nd  
1st  
2nd  
1st  
19.94 21.04 22.15  
13.83 14.60 15.36  
19.94 21.04 22.15  
15.07 15.90 16.74  
19.94 21.04 22.15  
12.72 13.43 14.14  
2. Remove the button head screw that  
secures the pipe hanger to the rear body  
mount (see inset).  
(Standard)  
16T/40T  
(Close)  
3. Carefully remove the engine and exhaust  
system from the spur gear area to allow  
enough room to remove the spur gear.  
18T/38T  
(Wide)  
2nd  
*stock configuration out of the box  
REVO PLATINUM EDITION 15  
TUNING ADJUSTMENTS  
If necessary, fine-tune the length of the second steering link to eliminate  
any load on the steering system in the neutral position.  
Tuning The Sealed Gear Differentials  
Revo’s front and rear gear differentials allow the left and right wheels to  
spin at different speeds while turning so that the tires do not scuff or skid.  
This decreases the turning radius and increases steering performance.  
41.8 mm  
The performance of the front and rear differentials can be tuned  
for different driving conditions and performance requirements. The  
differentials are filled with silicone differential fluid (oil) and are sealed  
to maintain consistent long-term performance. Changing the oil in  
the differentials with either lower or higher viscosity oil will vary the  
performance characteristics of the differentials.  
Steering Link Length Template  
If you are using aftermarket servos, it is important to use servo horns  
designed for Revo. Optional steering servo horns are sold separately for use  
with non-Traxxas servos.  
Changing to a higher viscosity oil in the differential will reduce the  
tendency for engine power to be transferred to the wheel with the least  
traction. You may notice this when making sharp turns on slick surfaces.  
The unloaded wheels on the inside of the turn have the least traction and  
tend to spin up to extremely high rpms. Higher viscosity (thicker) oil causes  
the differential to act like a limited-slip differential, distributing more  
equal power to the left and right wheels. Revo will generally benefit from  
higher viscosity oil when climbing, rock crawling, or racing on low traction  
surfaces. Note: Heavier oil will allow power to be transferred even with one  
or more tires off the ground. This can make the vehicle more likely  
to overturn.  
Servo Saver Tuning  
An optional stiffer spring is available for the servo saver when using servos  
with metal gear sets (see parts list for details). Do not use this spring with  
standard Traxxas high-torque servos.  
BRAKE SETUP & ADJUSTMENT  
Revo is equipped with front and rear disc brakes. The brakes are preset at  
the factory and should not require attention. As the brake material wears,  
future adjustments may be necessary.  
From the factory, the front differential is filled with SAE 50,000W oil and  
the rear differential is filled with 10,000W oil. The center differential is filled  
with SAE 500,000W oil. For the best center differential performance, only  
use the 500,000W diff fluid. This viscosity provides the best balance for  
acceleration and handling. Power will be more equally distributed to the  
front and rear differentials. Lighter viscosity center diff fluid may increase  
the tendency for the front tires to be over-driven (spin faster than the rear  
tires). Over-driving the front tires will reduce handling and acceleration  
authority. Only use silicone differential fluid (oil) in the differentials. Traxxas  
sells a range of oil viscosities (see your parts list). The differentials have to  
be removed from the vehicle and disassembled to change/replace oil.  
Brake Shoulder Screw Adjustment  
The two shoulder bolts that are  
0.5mm  
used to secure the brake pads to the  
transmission housing may need to  
be adjusted periodically as the brake  
material wears down. They should be  
tightened so a 0.50mm (.020”) gap  
gap  
exists between the disk and the brake pad (on the transmission side).  
Adjust in one of the following ways:  
1. Use a .50mm feeler gauge between the brake pad insert and brake disk.  
2. Push the outer brake pad firmly against the inner pad with your finger,  
sandwiching the brake disk between the brake calipers. Tighten the  
brake shoulder bolts until they just barely touch the brake pads. Do not  
over tighten these fasteners or you could damage the brake calipers.  
Loosen each of the shoulder bolts by 1 turn.  
DUAL SERVO STEERING SYSTEM  
Revo uses dual-servo steering and a single heavy-duty servo saver for  
powerful, responsive steering. To prevent unnecessary receiver battery  
drain it is important to make sure that the servos are “at rest” when the  
steering is at neutral. If one servo is out of adjustment, then both servos  
will work against each other, fighting to find center.  
Brake Linkage Adjustment  
When correctly adjusted, the brake linkage  
spring should barely touch the rod guide  
when the servo is in neutral position (closed  
throttle). This will ensure no brake drag  
during operation of the vehicle. The brake  
adjustment knob can be threaded away  
from the spring for less braking power  
if desired. Do not adjust knob to apply  
pressure against the spring while the  
servo is in the neutral position. This will  
induce brake drag and cause undesirable  
handling.  
Less Brake  
Adjusting The Steering System  
1. Remove the servo horns and steering links from the servos.  
Disconnect the steering links from the servo saver.  
Brake  
Linkage  
Spring  
2. Adjust both the steering links to be the exact same length (41.8mm -  
use “Steering Servo Horn Link Length Template” below to set length).  
3. Switch on the power to the receiver and the transmitter.  
4. Adjust the steering trim on the transmitter to the neutral “0” position.  
5. Connect one end of a steering link to the steering servo saver arm and  
the other end to the servo horn  
6. Position the steering servo saver arm  
perpendicular to the centerline of the vehicle.  
The position of the z-bend from the  
7. While holding the steering servo saver arm  
in the position mentioned in step 6, install  
the servo horn onto the servo such that the  
steering link is parallel with the centerline  
of the vehicle. This will automatically set the  
servo horn at the 7-degree offset shown in the  
illustration.  
factory is the middle position of the servo  
horn for the front brakes and in the rear  
position for the rear brakes. Changing this  
position will affect the way the brake force  
is applied. The brake adjustment knob will need to be readjusted if this  
position is changed.  
Front of Truck  
8. Install the second servo horn on the other side  
following the same procedure.  
16 REVO PLATINUM EDITION  
TUNING ADJUSTMENTS  
Brake Set-up Tips  
WING ADJUSTMENT  
The wing mount can be adjusted for both height and deflection angle.  
All four wheels should lock at the same time. This is the base setting  
for the brake system. If the brakes do not engage simultaneously, then  
thread the adjustment wheels in toward the brake levers until they  
actuate the brakes when pushing the transmitter trigger forward.  
The two top holes set the wing height. Using the  
upper hole will lower the level of the wing by  
approximately 3/8 inches.  
Front brake bias - Setting the front brakes to engage before the rear  
brakes will create a slight push while entering a corner.  
The lower three holes adjust the angle of wing  
incidence. By using the rear hole, wing down  
force will be maximized by adding negative wing  
deflection. For less deflection, the front holes can  
be used to fine tune the amount of down force  
needed for your track conditions.  
Rear brake bias - Setting the rear brakes to engage before the front  
brakes will cause the truck to oversteer when entering a corner.  
Use different brake bias settings to tailor the handling characteristics of  
the truck to suit your driving style in different conditions.  
The dual rear brake is intended for off-road use. It is not intended for  
repeated brake application on concrete or pavement.  
Brake Pad Wear and Replacement  
During normal use the brake pads should wear at a relatively slow rate.  
However, if the brake pads wear down close to the metal pad holders, they  
should be replaced. Any more wear than this could cause damage to the  
brake parts and improper operation of the brake system.  
SWAY BAR SETTINGS AND ADJUSTMENTS  
The sway bar set includes two different front and  
rear sway bars. The thicker of the two (black) is  
stiffer and will further reduce body roll in cornering.  
Softer  
Adjust the sway bar links so the sway bars are  
almost vertical while the truck is on the ground  
and the suspension is at rest (normal ride height).  
This allows equal sway bar travel in both unloaded  
and loaded suspension conditions. Always adjust  
the left and right sway bar links equally to prevent  
suspension tweak.  
Stiffer  
The Adjustable hollow balls can be raised or  
lowered closer to or further from the sway bar mount (pivot point) to  
increase torsion response and fine tune the sway bar’s response for  
different track conditions. Closer to the pivot point results in a stiffer  
setup, further from the pivot point will result in softer sway bar response.  
For smooth surfaces with high traction:  
Use black front and rear sway bars. Adjust linkage placement for stiffer  
response (lower on sway bar).  
For rough surfaces with low traction:  
Use silver front and rear sway bars. Adjust linkage placement for softer  
response (higher on sway bar).  
To reduce understeer (pushing in corners):  
Use silver front sway bar. Adjust front linkage placement for softer  
response (higher on sway bar).  
Use black rear sway bars. Adjust linkage placement for stiffer response  
(lower on sway bar).  
To reduce oversteer (loose in corners):  
Use black front sway bars. Adjust linkage placement for stiffer response  
(lower on sway bar).  
Use silver rear sway bar. Adjust front linkage placement for softer  
response (higher on sway bar).  
REVO PLATINUM EDITION 17  
INDEX  
Address 3  
Springs 13  
Spur gear  
Air filter 6  
Alignment; See Suspension and Alignment  
maximum limits 13  
Antenna crimp nut 4  
Antenna tube 4  
Brake 16  
changing 15  
mesh 15  
Starter box 3, 6, 8  
Steering 16  
Supplies 3  
linkage adjustment 16  
pads 17  
Support 2  
Suspension and Alignment 11–12  
bump steer 11  
set-up 17  
elimination 11  
shoulder screw adjustment 16  
Charging jack 4  
Clutch bell 15  
camber 12  
base factory settings 13  
negative 13  
positive 13  
Decals 5  
Differentials 16–17  
Engine (TRX 3.3 Racing Engine) 6  
break-in 7–9  
caster adjustment 11  
caster angle 11  
pivot ball caps 12  
ride height 12  
cold weather 9  
tuning 9–10  
rockers 11  
by temperature 10  
fine-tuning the carburetor 10  
Equipment 3  
roll center 11  
toe 12  
base factory settings 12  
Sway bar 17  
Factory needle settings 8  
Fuel 6  
Tire gluing 5  
handling 7  
Tools 3  
nitro percentage 6  
Glow plug 7  
Transmission 14–15  
adjusting the two-speed 15  
gear ratio 15  
igniter (glow driver) 6  
High-Speed Fuel Mixture Adjustment 9  
Idle Speed Adjustment 10  
Low-Speed Fuel Mixture Adjustment 10  
Painting 5  
two-speed ratio 15  
Tuning adjustments 11  
Wing adjustment 17  
Receiver 3, 4  
antenna 4  
battery; See RX Power Pack  
RX Power Pack 4  
care 4  
Safety 3  
Servos  
steering 4, 16  
throttle 4  
Shocks 13  
assembly 14  
disassembly 14  
pistons 13  
Slipper clutch 14  
18 REVO PLATINUM EDITION  
NOTES  
REVO PLATINUM EDITION 19  

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