Warranty• DuraTrax™ will warranty this kit for 90 days after the purchase date from defects in materials or workmanship. DuraTrax

will either repair or replace, at no charge, the incorrectly made part.• Make sure you save the receipt or invoice you were given when you bought your model! It is your proof of purchase

and we must see it before we can honor the warranty. • To return your Axis for repairs covered under warranty you should send your buggy to:

Hobby Services1610 Interstate Drive

Champaign, Illinois 61822Attn: Service Department

Phone: (217) 398-0007 9:00 am - 5:00 pm Central Time M-FE-mail: hobbyservices@hobbico.com

Before Building:We want the building and operating of this vehicle to be a success, so BEFORE removing any parts from the parts bagsplease read this manual thoroughly and watch the included video to familiarize yourself with the model. If for any reasonyou think this model is not for you, return it to your dealer immediately. PLEASE NOTE: Your hobby dealer cannot accepta return on any model after assembly has begun.

© Copyright 1999 DTXZ1050 For Kit DTXC0070/DTXD70**

ASSEMBLY AND OPERATION MANUAL

2

Introduction.................................................................................2Safety Precautions .....................................................................2Helpful Hints................................................................................2Stress-Tech™ Parts Guarantee...................................................2Repair Service.............................................................................3Specification & Description Changes.......................................3Screw Information ......................................................................3Required Items for Completion .................................................3Tools You Will Need....................................................................3Finishing the RTR Version.........................................................4Assembly of the Pre-Built Version............................................6Preparing the Radio System......................................................6Radio Installation........................................................................6Steering Linkage.......................................................................10Brake and Throttle Linkage .....................................................10Air Filter and Fuel Tubing Installation ....................................12Radio Adjustments ...................................................................13Wing Mounting..........................................................................14Carburetor Settings ..................................................................15Breaking in the Engine.............................................................15Running the Engine..................................................................15Engine Maintenance .................................................................16Performance Tuning .................................................................17Maintenance Tips......................................................................18Engine Trouble Shooting .........................................................19

Thank you for purchasing the DuraTrax Axis. This manualcontains the instructions you need to build, operate andmaintain your new nitro R/C buggy. Read over this manualthoroughly before building or operating the Axis.

When the safety precautions are followed, the Axis willprovide years of enjoyment. Use care and good sense at alltimes when operating this radio controlled buggy. Failure touse this vehicle in a safe, sensible manner can result ininjury or damage to property. You and you alone must insurethat the instructions are carefully followed and all safetyprecautions are obeyed.

• Do not operate the Axis near people. Spectators shouldbe behind the driver or at a safe distance away from thevehicle.

• The engine and exhaust produces quite a bit of noise. Ifyou are disturbed by the amount of noise this buggyproduces, wear ear protection such as earplugs. Do notrun this vehicle when or where it can disturb others.

• The engine and exhaust can become very hot. Avoidtouching any of these parts during use and until theyhave cooled down.

• Model engine fuel is poisonous. Make sure you read andfollow all of the precautions on the fuel container. Keepfuel out of the reach of children.

• Model engine fuel is flammable and when ignited has aflame that is difficult to see. Avoid sparks, flames,smoking, or any other ignition source when fuel is near.

• The engine emits carbon dioxide just like real cars. Donot operate this model indoors.

• Before turning on the transmitter, make sure that no oneelse is on your frequency.

• Avoid working over a deep pile carpet. If you drop a smallpart or screw, it will be difficult to find.

• Place a mat or towel over your work surface. This willprevent parts from rolling off and will protect the worksurface.

• Avoid running the buggy in cold weather. The plastic andmetal parts can become brittle at low temperatures. Inaddition, grease and oil become thick, causingpremature wear and poor performance.

• Test fit all parts before attaching them permanently.

We have engineered the Axis to take the rough and tumbleabuse that makes R/C buggies fun. We are so confident ofthe quality and durability of the Stress-Tech™ plastic partsthat we will replace any Stress-Tech plastic part you breakduring the first 6 months you own the buggy. Just send inthe part to us and we will send you a Free replacement.Please see the Axis parts list for the items covered underthe Stress-Tech guarantee.

To receive your free replacement part please send thefollowing to the Hobby Services address listed on the coverof this manual:

• The broken part must be included.• The part number and description of the broken part.• Dated copy of your invoice or purchase receipt.• Your name, phone number and shipping address.

STRESS-TECH™ PARTS GUARANTEE

HELPFUL HINTS

SAFETY PRECAUTIONS

INTRODUCTION

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Repair service is available anytime. • After the 90 day warranty, you can still have your Axis

repaired for a small charge by the experts at DuraTrax’sauthorized repair facility, Hobby Services, at the addresslisted on the front page of this manual.

To speed up the repair process, please follow theinstructions listed below.1. Under most circumstances return the ENTIRE system:

buggy and radio. The exception would be sending in aStress-Tech part. See the instructions under Stress-TechGuarantee.

2. Make sure the transmitter is turned off, all batteries areremoved and fuel is drained from the tank.

3. Send written instructions which include: a list of all itemsreturned, a THOROUGH explanation of the problem, theservice needed and your phone number during the day. Ifyou expect the repair to be covered under warranty, besure to include a proof of date of purchase (your storereceipt or purchase invoice).

4. Also be sure to include your full return address.

All pictures, descriptions and specifications found in thisinstruction manual are subject to change without notice.DuraTrax maintains no responsibility for inadvertent errorsin this manual.

Do not use too much force when tightening self-tappingscrews into plastic. Overtightening will cause the threads inthe plastic to strip. We recommend that you stop turning aself-tapping screw when you feel some resistance as thehead of the screw comes in contact with the plastic. Avoidusing powered screwdrivers when assembling this kit. Theytend to overtighten the screws. Do not use thread lockingcompound on any self-tapping screws. The thread lockingcompound may damage the plastic. IMPORTANT: Usethread lock on any fastener that is threaded into metal orfastened with a nut. Vibration from the engine will cause thescrews to loosen if thread locking compound is not used.

To operate the Axis these items are required:

• Glow plug starter (Hobbico Hot-Shot 2 -HCAP2520).• Fuel bottle (DuraTrax Kwik-Pit Bottle - DTXP0125)• Fuel (DuraTrax Red Alert fuel - DTXP0520)• Air Filter Oil• Glow plug wrench (DTXR1170)• It is also helpful to have a couple of extra glow plugs

on hand (O.S. #A3 plug - OSMG2690)• Hobby knife (HCAR0105), #11 blades (HCAR0211)

(All of these items are available in a Nitro Starter Packfrom DuraTrax - DTXP0200).

For the Pre-Built version of the Axis, you will also need:

• 2-channel radio with (1) standard servo and (1) hightorque (70+ oz./in.) servo (for steering).

• (12) “AA” batteries - (4) for the receiver and (8) for thetransmitter.

• Small bottle of thread locking compound (GPMR6060).

To assemble the Pre-built version (DTXC0070), you willneed the following tools:

• Phillips head screwdriver• Flat blade screwdriver• Needle-nose pliers• Wire cutters or diagonal cutters (HCAR0630)• Hobby knife (HCAR0105), #11 blades (HCAR0211)

TOOLS YOU WILL NEED

REQUIRED ITEMS FOR COMPLETION

3mm

14mm

M3x14 Screw

3mm

14mm

M3x14Self-Tapping

Screw

SCREW INFORMATION

SPECIFICATION & DESCRIPTION CHANGES

REPAIR SERVICE

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4

❏ 1. Remove the buggy, transmitter and parts fromthe box.

❏ 2. Remove the twist-tie from the receiver antennawire. The receiver wire looks like a bundled thin wirethat is attached to the receiver. Run the length of theantenna wire through your fingers to help straightenthe wire out, this will make it easier to get the wirethrough the tube. Remove the antenna tube from thedecal bag. Slide the antenna wire through the antennatube. Do not coil or cut the antenna. Cut two piecesof fuel tubing 1/8" wide and slide them over the outsideof the antenna tube and wire. This is to help hold theantenna tube on and avoid getting the antenna wirecut in a roll over. Note the placement of the tubing onthe antenna tube.

❏ 3. Remove the air filter parts from the parts pack.Slide the large rubber O-ring around the threads of theouter housing. The O-ring will help seal the air filtertogether. Soak the air cleaner element with an air filteroil, light machine oil, or, in a pinch, shock oil.Thoroughly soak the foam element and squeeze outthe excess. Then install the filter element into theplastic outer housing.

❏ 4. Press the “L” shaped boot onto the bottom housingof the air filter. Using one of the included tie-straps,secure the boot onto the bottom housing. Cut off theexcess portion of the tie-strap. Screw the bottom andouter filter housing together. Note: Overtightening willstrip the threads.

❏ 5. Place the air filter onto the carburetor. Using theremaining included tie-strap, secure the air filter to thecarburetor. Cut the excess portion of the tie-strap off toavoid interference.

❏ 6. Locate the pre-drilled wing and place it onto thewing mount plate. Make sure that holes in the wing lineup with the wing mount plate. Place a tapered blackplastic washer over each of the two holes. Then inserta 3x12mm screw through the washer and wing into thewing support. (Make sure not to overtighten thescrews holding the wing on to avoid stripping theholes in the wing support).

WING MOUNTING

AIR FILTER INSTALLATION

ANTENNA INSTALLATION

FINISHING THE AXIS RTR VERSION (DTXD70**)

❏ 7. Remove the receiver battery holder from theradio box. Install (4) “AA” batteries (included) into thebattery holder in the configuration molded into thebattery holder.

❏ 8. Re-install the receiver battery into the radio box.Note the placement of the receiver battery in the box.Make sure that the receiver switch is in the “off”position. Plug the connector on the receiver batteryinto the socket on the receiver switch. Wrap thereceiver with the included foam rubber (if desired,secure with a rubber band, not included) to helpreduce possible radio interference from vibration.

❏ 9. Remove the transmitter antenna from the holderand screw it into the hole on top of the transmitter.

❏ 10. Slide open the battery door on the bottom of thetransmitter and remove the transmitter battery holder.Place 8 “AA” batteries (included) into the holder in theconfiguration molded into the plastic on the batteryholder. Re-install the transmitter battery holder into thetransmitter and re-install the battery door.

❏ 11. Turn on the transmitter using the switch on theback (see photo with step 9). The green light on the sideof the transmitter should light up. If there is no light on,turn the transmitter off and check to ensure that thebattery holder is making contact with the copper contacton the inside of the battery compartment. Make sure thebatteries are installed correctly. Turn the transmitter onand check for the green indicator light. If the green lightappears, turn off the transmitter.

❏ 12. Remove the plastic from the outside of the body.Apply the decals to the body and wing if desired.

❏ 13. Remove the body clips from the parts bag.Place the body onto the body mounts. On each bodymount place a body clip.

You are ready to go! Watch the video one more time andturn to page 15 for performance and maintenance tips.

RADIO SETUP

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6

❏ 1. Remove the Axis buggy and the transmitter fromthe box.

❏ 2. Remove the radio tray from the chassis byremoving the (8) 3x15mm flat head self tappingscrews from the bottom of the chassis.

❏ 3. Install the receiver on/off switch. Remove the twoscrews from the face plate of the on/off switch andremove the face plate. The switch should be in the“OFF” position. Insert the on/off switch up through thebottom of the radio plate. Then place the face plateover the top of the on/off switch and place the twoscrews back through the face plate into the on/offswitch. Be sure to reinstall the face plate with the“OFF” position next to the switch button. Run bothwires from the on/off switch through the hole in theside of the radio box.

RADIO INSTALLATION

ASSEMBLY OF THE AXIS PRE-BUILT VERSION (DTXC0070)

1. Install the batteries in the transmitter andthe receiver battery holders.

2. Extend the transmitter antenna.

3. Connect the steering servo, throttle servoand receiver battery to the receiver.

4. Extend the receiver antenna.

5. Adjust the servo trims of the transmitter tothe neutral position.

6. Switch on the transmitter.

7. Switch on the receiver.

8. Operate the steering and throttle control.Make sure the servo arms move in proportion to the movement of the steering wheel and throttle trigger.

9. Switch off the receiver, then the transmitter.

Before installing the radio system in thepre-built DuraTrax Axis read themanufacturer’s instructions manual andfollow the instructions shown below.

Servo Arm

SteeringServo

Throttle Servo

Receiver Battery Holder

4-AA Batteries

Transmitter

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6

1 Antenna4

8-AA Batteries1

Receiver3

ReceiverSwitch

7

Antenna2

8

PREPARING THE RADIO SYSTEM

❏ 4. Use a hobby knife or diagonal cutters to removethe servo mounting blocks from the radio tray. Makesure all of the flashing is removed from inside theservo compartment to assure a proper servo fit. Savethe servo mounting blocks.

❏ 5. Place the standard throttle servo into the radiotray. Note: Notice the direction of the servo splinewhen installing. Run the servo lead through the holein the side of the radio box.

❏ 6. Mount the servo to the radio tray using fourmounting screws included with the radio system. Useone of the servo mounting blocks that you cut out ofthe radio tray in step 4 and place it against the underside of the radio tray under the slotted holes. Thescrews should go through the servo, the radio tray andinto the servo mounting block. Note: Make sure touse the servo mounting block on the end with theslotted mounting holes.

❏ 7. Place the high torque steering servo into theradio tray. Note the direction of the servo splinewhen installing. Run the servo lead through the holein the side of the radio box.

❏ 8. Mount the servo to the radio tray using fourmounting screws included with the radio system. Usethe other mounting block that you cut out of the radio trayin step 4 and place it against the under side of the radiotray under the slotted holes. The screws should gothrough the servo, the radio tray and into the servomounting block. Note: Make sure to use the mountingblock on the end with the slotted mounting holes.

❏ 9. Cut two of the arms off the throttle servo horn byscoring both sides of the arm with a hobby knife andsnapping off the arms with pliers.

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8

❏ 10. Install the servo horn onto the throttle servo,note the direction of the servo horn. Secure thehorn to the servo with the screw included with theradio system.

❏ 11. Remove three of the arms off the steering servohorn as shown.

❏ 12. Install the servo horn onto the steering servo,note the direction of the servo horn. Secure thehorn to the servo with the screw included with theradio system.

❏ 13. Route the wires and connectors for the switchand two servos through the hole in the radio box. Cuta piece of foam the size of the radio box and place itin the bottom for all of the equipment to set on. Makesure that all of the wires coming into the radio box areon top of the foam. This is to help prevent vibrationdamage to the receiver.

❏ 14. Install the receiver into the radio box and routethe antenna wire through the same hole the servoleads come in. Run the antenna wire up through theantenna mount hole.

❏ 15. Plug the steering servo, throttle servo andswitch into the receiver. See your radio instructions todetermine which channel is steering and which isthrottle. The switch plugs into the battery socket.

❏ 16. Install 4 “AA” batteries into the receiver batteryholder in the configuration molded into the batteryholder included with the radio system.

❏ 17. Install the receiver battery into the radio box.Note the placement of the receiver battery in the box.Connect the receiver battery to the remaining end ofthe on/off switch.

❏ 18. Cut a 2" x 7" (50 x 175mm) piece of the includedfoam and wrap it around the receiver. If desired, you canwrap a small rubber band (not included) around theoutside of the foam to secure it in place for added security.

❏ 19. Install the receiver into the receiver box asshown. Make sure all of the wires are out from underthe receiver so that it will properly fit into the radio box.

❏ 20. Cut the left over foam into small pieces andplace them around the receiver and battery to helpsecure them into place. Then slide the radio box coverback onto the radio box.

❏ 21. Run the length of the antenna wire through yourfingers to help straighten the wire out, this will make iteasier to get the wire through the tube. Slide theantenna wire through the antenna tube. Frequently,there will be leftover wire through the antenna tube(Do not cut or coil the antenna!) Cut two pieces offuel tubing 1/8" wide and slide them over the outsideof the antenna tube and wire. This is to help hold theantenna tube on and avoid getting the antenna wirecut in a roll over. Note the placement of the tubing onthe antenna tube.

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❏ 22. Re-install the radio box back onto the chassis.Use the (8) 3x15mm flathead self tapping screws thatyou removed earlier to secure the radio box back ontothe chassis. Refer to the picture in step 2 on page 6.

❏ 23. Remove one of the three prebent linkage rodswith a z-bend at the end of it from the linkage bag.Note all of the prebent rods are the same.

❏ 24. Remove the servo horn from steering servo.Enlarge the hole 3/4" (19mm) away from the center ofthe horn with a 5/64" (2mm) drill or a hobby knife.

❏ 25. Install the z-bend end of the linkage rod into theservo horn from the bottom as shown.

❏ 26. Loosen the screw in the bottom of the steeringarm on the servo saver enough for the linkage rod toslide through the metal rod connector.

❏ 27. Remove the screw from the steering servo horn.Slide the steering linkage rod through the hole in thelinkage rod connector in the steering arm. Place theservo horn back onto the servo. When placing thehorn onto the servo, the horn and the steering armshould be parallel as shown in the photo. Note: Donot screw the servo horn down yet, the servos willneed to be centered after assembly is completed.

❏ 28. From the linkage bag remove the two remainingprebent linkage rods with z-bends at one end, thestraight throttle wire, (6) 2mm rod collars, (6) 2mm setscrews, (1) throttle linkage spring, (1) rod connector,(1) 2mm nut and (1) plastic ball cup. Also cut (2) 1/4"pieces of fuel tubing from the fuel tubing included withthe kit.

BRAKE AND THROTTLE LINKAGE

STEERING LINKAGE

❏ 29. Remove the servo horn from the throttle servo.Enlarge the two farthest holes at one end of the hornand the farthest hole on the other end with a 5/64"(2mm) drill or a hobby knife.

❏ 30. Install the rod connector into the top of the hornat the end with the single enlarged hole. Apply a smallamount of thread locking compound onto the threadsof the rod connector, then thread on the 2mm nut. Donot overtighten the nut, the rod connector must beable to swivel freely.

❏ 31. Install the two linkage rods with the z-bends atone end of them into the two enlarged holes at theopposite end from the rod connector.

❏ 32. Install the set screw into two of the rod collars.Place one rod collar onto both of the prebent linkagerods. Note: Do not tighten the set screws all theway down yet, the linkage will be adjusted later.

❏ 33. Re-install the servo horn onto the servo. Slide thebrake linkage rods through the brake levers as shown.

❏ 34. Screw the plastic ball cup onto the throttlelinkage wire. Install one rod collar onto the linkage rod,then slide on the throttle linkage spring. Insert thethrottle linkage through the rod connector as shown.Note: Do not tighten the set screw in the rod collardown, adjustments will be made later.

Rod Connector

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12

❏ 35. Snap the ball cup onto the throttle. Install asecond rod collar onto the throttle linkage so that it fitsagainst the rod connector. Note: Do not tighten theset screw in the rod collar, the linkage will beadjusted later.

❏ 36. Slide a 1/4" piece of fuel tubing over each of thebrake linkage rods. Then install a rod collar onto eachof the two rods. Note: Do not tighten the set screwin the rod collars, the linkage will be adjusted later.

❏ 37. Locate the fuel tubing included with the kit. Cuta 6" (150mm) piece to go from the fuel tank to thecarburetor and a 4" (100mm) piece to go from the fueltank to the pressure nipple on the tuned pipe.

❏ 38.Install one end of the 6" (150mm) piece of fueltubing onto the rotatable nipple on the rear of the fueltank and the other end onto the nipple on the carburetor.

❏ 39.Install one end of the 4" (100mm) piece of fueltubing onto the nipple next to the fuel tank lid and theother end on the nipple on the tuned pipe.

❏ 40. Assemble the air filter. Slide the large rubber O-ring around the threads of the outer housing. The O-ring will help seal the air filter together.

❏ 41. Soak the air cleaner element with an air filter oil,light machine oil, or in a pinch, shock oil (not included).Thoroughly soak the foam element and squeeze outthe excess. Then install the filter element into theplastic outer housing. Install the filter element into theplastic outer housing.

AIR FILTER AND FUEL TUBINGINSTALLATION

❏ 42. Press the “L” shaped boot onto the bottomhousing of the air filter. Using one of the included tie-straps, secure the boot onto the bottom housing. Cutthe excess portion of the tie-strap to avoid interference.

❏ 43. Screw the bottom and main filter housingtogether. Note: Overtightening will strip the threads.

❏ 44. Place the air filter onto the carburetor. Using theremaining included tie-strap, secure the air filter to thecarburetor. Cut the excess portion of the tie-strap off toavoid interference.

❏ 45. Turn on the transmitter and receiver.

❏ 46. Slide the rod collars and fuel tubing that engagethe brakes so that when the car is at an idle the brakesare slightly on. Test this by rolling the Axis on a flattable or the floor and applying the brakes using thetransmitter. Move the rod collars on the other side ofthe brake levers so that they will push the levers backwhen accelerating.

❏ 47. Tighten the rod collar that retains the throttlespring so that the spring cannot move back and forthbut not so much that the spring is tight. The rod collarat the other end of the throttle linkage should betightened against the rod connector as shown.

RADIO ADJUSTMENTS

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❏ 48. Remove the throttle and steering servo hornsfrom the servos. Turn on the transmitter, then turn onthe receiver. Center the trims on the transmitter (seeyour radio instructions). Place the horns back onto theservos as shown. Make sure the wheels are pointingstraight ahead and the throttle should be at an idleposition. Install the servo horn screws once the hornshave been centered. Use the trims on the radio to finetune the centering of the tires and the idle of theengine. When finished trimming, turn the receiver andtransmitter off.

❏ 49. Locate the pre-drilled wing and place it onto thewing support. Make sure that the holes in the wing lineup with the wing support. Place a tapered black plasticwasher over each of the two holes. Then insert a3x12mm screw through the washer and wing into thewing support. (Make sure not to overtighten thescrews holding the wing on to avoid stripping theholes in the wing support).

❏ 50. Remove the plastic from the outside of the body.Apply the decals if desired.

❏ 51. Remove the body clips from the parts bag.Place the body onto the body mounts. On each bodymount place a body clip.

WING MOUNTING

The High-Speed NeedleThe “high-speed” needle is sticking up from the side ofthe carb. It is located in the brass housing, just abovethe fuel inlet. It controls the fuel to air mixture of thecarb. The needle is pre-set for break-in from thefactory at 3 turns out from the fully closed position ofthe carb. Once the engine is broken-in, the high-speedneedle would typically run from 2-1/2 to 3 turns outfrom closed, depending on the weather, humidity andaltitude above sea level. To richen turn the needlecounterclockwise, to lean turn the needle clockwise.

The Low-Speed NeedleThe “low-speed” needle is the screw in the carb body,opposite the throttle arm. It controls the fuel to airmixture at low throttle settings. There is a simple wayof adjusting the low-speed needle correctly called the“pinch test.” With the engine at idle, pinch the fuel lineand listen to how the engine speeds up or slows down.If the engine increases its speed for about 2 or 3seconds and then loses speed, the needle is setcorrectly. If the engine loses RPM quickly, it is set toolean and the low-speed needle needs to be opened(counterclockwise) to richen the mixture. Pinch againto check the mixture. If the engine takes longer than 4seconds to slow down, lean (clockwise) the low-speedneedle and then pinch again to check the mixture.

The Throttle Stop ScrewOn the front of the carburetor, there is a black screw.This is called the idle stop screw. This increases ordecreases the idle RPM without changing the fuel toair mixture. The barrel should be approximately1.5mm (between 1/32" and 1/16") from fully closed.

To insure long life and good performance from yourTorq .21 engine, you MUST break-in the engine. Thebreak-in period is critical for long life of the internalparts of the engine. This should be done over the first5 or 6 tanks of fuel. Be sure to watch the engine tuningvideo that came with this kit.Some Things To Remember During Break-In:1. Run with the body off. This will keep the engine cooler.2. Keep the air cleaner on at ALL times.3. Run on a smooth, hard surface. An empty parking

lot is perfect.4. Use the same fuel that you will use for normal running.5. Resist the urge to accelerate and decelerate the

buggy quickly.6. Break-in puts stress on the glow plug and you can

burn it out during break-in. Make sure you have anextra plug or two on hand.

7. Do NOT overheat the engine. You can check thehead temperature by using one of the temperaturegauges that are available or by putting a drop ofwater on the top of the cylinder head. If the waterboils away immediately, shut off the engine andallow it to cool. If it takes more than 10 seconds toboil away, the engine is at proper runningtemperature for break-in.

Before running the engine, read the manual and watchthe engine video that came with this kit.

There are several simple steps to starting the engine:

1. Install a glow plug if one is not in your engine. Thisthreads into the top of the cylinder head.

2. Fill the tank almost to the top. Leave a little air at thetop of the tank.

3. Prime the engine by turning the flywheel on theengine. Watch the fuel go through the line andwhen it gets to the carburetor, turn the flywheel onemore full revolution.

4. Open the high speed needle valve exactly 3 turnsout (counterclockwise) from fully closed. Thehigh-speed needle is sticking up from thecarburetor inside the brass housing. All of thecarburetor settings are adjusted with a flat bladedscrewdriver. If you have previously run the buggy,keep the same needle valve setting that you usedon your last run.

5. Start the engine by pulling the recoil - Use short,quick pulls. DO NOT pull the recoil starter’s string tothe end. You only need 10 to 12 inches of pull tostart the engine.

RUNNING THE ENGINE

BREAKING IN THE ENGINECARBURETOR SETTINGS

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If the engine does not start after several pulls,sometimes it is helpful to start the engine at aroundhalf throttle. Have a friend pull back on the throttlesome while you start the engine. This may be anindicator that the low speed needle setting needs to beadjusted. When the engine starts, immediately returnthe throttle to idle. If this is not done the engine canover-rev and cause engine damage. If the engine isdifficult to turn over with the recoil starter,especially if it is brand new, loosen the glow pluga half turn before starting the engine. This allowssome compression to escape, but the engine willstill start. Make sure you tighten the glow plugafter the engine starts. If the recoil starter is stilldifficult to pull, the engine is flooded – there is toomuch fuel inside the engine. Remove the glow plugand air cleaner, then turn the engine upside down andpull the recoil 5 or 6 times. This will clear the engine offuel, and you will notice the recoil pulls easier. Replacethe glow plug and repeat the starting procedure.

FuelsUse fuels that are specially formulated for car andtruck engines. DuraTrax Red Alert fuel is speciallyformulated for buggy engines like the Torq .21.

How To Stop Your EngineYou may have been wondering how to stop theengine. All you have to do is pinch the fuel line thatruns to the carburetor and from the bottom of the fueltank. Pinching this will restrict the fuel flow and theengine will quit within a few seconds. You can alsotouch the flywheel with the tip of your shoe through thehole in the bottom of the chassis.

The First TankYour first tank of fuel should be running the buggy at avery rich high-speed needle valve setting. This allowsthe fuel to carry as much oil as possible into the engineto lubricate the internal parts during the break-in.

1. Open the needle valve 3 turns from fully closed(counterclockwise). This is factory set already, butcheck it to make sure. When closing the high-speed needle, close the needle until you feel someresistance. DO NOT overtighten or you willdamage the engine.

2. Start the engine.3. Once the engine is started, open the high-speed

needle valve around 1/8 turn at a time, finding thesetting where the engine just barely runs. Thismay take a few times adjusting the needle, runningthe buggy away from you and back, then adjustingthe needle. The buggy will perform sluggishly andstall from time to time - that is normal.

4. Run the buggy back and forth at medium speeds,slowly accelerating and decelerating the buggy.

5. After a minute or two of running, make sure theengine is not overheating by putting a drop ofwater on the cylinder head and watching it boilaway. If it boils away within 10 seconds, stop theengine and allow it to cool. Open the high-speedneedle around a 1/4 turn before starting again.This is a good habit to get into every time you runto ensure that the engine does not overheat duringany run. Looking at the smoke that comes out theexhaust is also an indicator of how rich or lean theengine is running. If there is a good amount ofsmoke coming out of the exhaust, then chancesare good that you are running rich.

6. Run the buggy back and forth at a medium speeduntil the tank is almost out of fuel. Do not allow thetank to run out of fuel. This leans out the engineand can cause overheating (See How To StopYour Engine).

7. Stop the engine and allow the engine to coolbefore the second tank. This normally takesaround 10 minutes.

Tanks 2-6 Turn in the needle valve (clockwise) around 1/12 turnfrom the previous setting. Run the buggy back andforth. You should notice that the buggy will performbetter during each run. Stop the buggy periodically tocheck for overheating. If it is too hot, stop the engine.Wait for it to cool, then open up the needle valve andrestart. After the 6th tank, you should be near to thepeak performance of the engine.

Ten Ways To Ensure A Long Life From Your Engine:

1. Keep your engine clean. Dirt will act as insulationon an engine. It will not be able to shed heat aseasily. Use a good air filter to keep dirt out of yourengine and clean it often.

2. Do not over-lean your engine.3. Do not run your engine with little or no load. Don’t

throttle up the engine to full throttle when thewheels are not in contact with the ground.

4. Do not overheat the engine. This goes along withkeeping it clean and not over-leaning the engine.

5. Do not use a fuel with a low oil content. Make sureyou use a fuel from a reputable manufacturer,such as DuraTrax Red Alert.

6. Avoid using old fuels in the engine. Always run all ofthe fuel out of the engine. After running for the day,use an after-run oil and work it into the engine byturning the flywheel or pulling the engine recoil slowly.

7. Do not use a fuel with a nitromethane (often callednitro) content over 20%.

ENGINE MAINTENANCE

8. Do not scratch the piston or cylinder sleeve. Avoidjamming something into the exhaust port whenremoving or re-installing the clutch or flywheel.Use a special tool called a crankshaft locking tool,which is installed in the glow plug hole.

9. Do not use silicone sealer on the engine joints.Silicone sealer contains acetic acid, which iscorrosive if it gets inside your engine.

10. Do not allow any water inside the engine. Thissounds easy, but temperature changes can causecondensation inside the engine. This is a goodreason to use an after-run oil. Store your engineinside the house, not in a garage or shed wherethere will be temperature extremes.

If you are having problems with your engineconsult the engine troubleshooting flow chart onpage 19. The following are some potentialproblems.

Glow PlugThe glow plug is an item that will wear out and needreplacement from time to time. It is a good idea toremove the glow plug before your first run, heat it andsee how well it glows. You should see a bright orangeglow from the filament. If a coil or two will not glow orthe plug will not glow at all, replace the plug. If theengine quits when you remove the glow starter, theplug might need to be changed, although this may bebecause you are running too rich and need to screw inyour high-speed needle some. Look at the glow plugwhen you are running the engine. If you see somebubbles coming from around the plug, replace theglow plug (copper) gasket, or both the plug andgasket. The only real way to test a glow plug is toreplace it. Make sure you have a spare plug or two onhand every time that you run the Axis.

FuelFuel can go bad. The main ingredient in model fuel ismethanol, which is basically an alcohol. Alcohols canabsorb water out of the air, so keep your fuel jugcapped at all times. Store your fuel out of the sunlightand in a cool place. Bad fuel is one of the most difficultproblems to diagnose in engines. If you have triedeverything you can think of to remedy an engine thatis not running correctly, try using some fresh fuel.

Fuel line is susceptible to pinhole leaks. You cannot seethe hole in the fuel line, but if you see air bubbles in theline going to the carburetor, replace the fuel line. Anothersymptom of a leak in the fuel line is a surging engine. Theproperly tuned engine will surge when the air bubbles hitthe carb. It is basically leaning out the mixture.

To keep dirt out of the engine, use an inline fuel filteron the fuel line running from the fuel tank to thecarburetor. Dirt can get caught in the needle seat andcause an inconsistent running engine. If you suspectthat some dirt has lodged itself in the carb, remove theneedles and clean the carb with denatured alcohol orfuel. It can help to use compressed air to blow out thefuel passages as well. Dirt can get into your carburetorand engine through the air filter. Ensure that your aircleaner has a good seal to the top of the carb.Periodically wash the air cleaner foam element and re-oil the filter. Any air cleaner that has a torn element ora bad seal should be replaced immediately.

OverheatingOne of the worst things you can do to your engine isoverheat it. The oils that lubricate the engine arecarried in the fuel. If your engine is set too lean, therewill not be enough oil in the engine to lubricate theinternal parts. This will cause premature wear in theengine and cause damage. We have talked aboutoverheating in other parts of this manual, but we wantto stress the proper techniques to check foroverheating. The easiest way of checking thetemperature of the cylinder head is using one of theavailable temperature gauges. This will give you adirect reading of the cylinder head temperature. Do notlet the head temperature exceed 220° Fahrenheit(104° Celsius). Another way of checking the headtemperature is to put a drop of water on the cylinderhead. If it boils away within 10 seconds, the high-speedneedle is set too lean. If the water boils away in around 15 seconds, the engine is within proper operatingtemperatures. If the water boils away longer than 15seconds, the mixture is set rich which is preferablewhen breaking in the engine. Otherwise lean themixture some and retest after a minute of running.

Ride Height: This refers to the clearance between theground and the chassis, both at the front and the backof the buggy. The general rule is to have thesuspension arms perfectly level when the car is atrest. To determine the ride height, drop the buggy fromaround 6"-12" above flat ground. Drop the buggy,making sure it drops flat. Check where the suspensionarms come to rest. You can adjust ride by moving thespring adjusters on the shock, which are at the top ofeach shock spring, until the arms are level after thedrop test.

PERFORMANCE TUNING

17

18

Toe-In/Toe-Out: This refers to the angle of the fronttires when viewed from above when the suspensionarms are level. If the fronts of the tires angle in, it iscalled “toe-in” and if the fronts of the tires angle out, itis called “toe-out.” This is adjusted by lengthening orshortening the steering rods - the rods that runbetween the front hub and the servo saver. Normally asmall amount of toe-in is used to make the buggy trackstraight at high speed. Too much toe-in will make thebuggy difficult to turn as well as reduce the overall topspeed because of tire scrub. Sometimes a smallamount of toe-out will be used to help the steering. Asa general rule use a small amount of toe-in.

Camber: Camber is the angle of the tops of the tireswhen viewed from the front. Negative camber is whenthe tops of the tires are angled towards the center ofthe buggy. Positive camber is where the tops of thetires are angled away from the center of the buggy.Positive camber is very rarely used, if ever. A smallamount of rear negative camber is helpful to increasetraction in the rear. Negative camber at the front willincrease stability. Camber adjustments can be madeon the Axis by turning the “camber rods,” which are theupper links on the suspension. Lengthening thecamber rod will add positive camber and shorteningthe camber rod will add negative camber.

Shocks: Changes in shock oils, springs, and pre-load onthe springs can dramatically change the way the carhandles. A thicker shock oil will make the buggy turnfaster but reduces overall traction and handling overbumpy surfaces. Thinner oil will increase traction at the

expense of steering response and the car will tend to rollmore. In general, shock oils between 20 and 40 weightwill be best for your buggy. You should experiment someto see what oils work best for your track and driving style.Shock springs affect the rate that the suspensionrebounds from a bump. We have supplied soft springsthat work under most conditions. Pre-load on the springsmeans that the springs are already compressed someso that the suspension will rebound faster. Sometimesyou will want to pre-load one side when the track hasturns all or mostly in one direction, for instance an ovaltrack. It will also increase the ride height.

Before Each Run• Check for loosened screws on the buggy. Engine

vibration will loosen some of the screws, particularlyin the engine mount area. Use thread lock on screwsthat thread into metal parts or use a metal nut.

• Inspect the air cleaner for a torn or damagedelement. Also look for dirt in the air cleaner elementand wash it if necessary.

• Check the suspension and drive train for binding.• Inspect all of the wires for damage. Also check the

connectors to make sure all of them are tight and inthe proper place.

• Check the fuel tank and fuel lines for leaks. • Before starting the engine, turn on the radio and

make sure the servos move easily and in the rightdirection.

• Before running always check the condition of yourradio system batteries and replace/recharge ifnecessary.

After Each Run• Drain the fuel tank of any leftover fuel. DO NOT

return it to your fuel jug.• Put some after-run oil in the carb and turn the

flywheel several times to work the oil into theengine. This will protect the engine from rusting,especially when stored for a long period of time.

• Check again for loosened screws.• CLEAN the buggy. Wipe off any oils that have

collected on the chassis, engine end exhaust. Oilswill attract dirt on the next run.

MAINTENANCE TIPS

0" 1" 2" 3" 4" 5" 6" 7"

0 10 20 30 40 50 60 70 80 90 100 110 120 130 140 150 160 170 180

Inch Scale

Metric Scale (mm)

19

ENGINE TROUBLE SHOOTINGThe engine starts

Does the engineturn over easily?

Does it runcontinuously?

Is fuel getting tothe engine?

Check for clogging inthe carburetor or fuel

line. Press theprimer pump and

check for fuelspraying out of the

fuel line. If so,replace the fuel line.

Is fuel in the fuel line?

Is the glow plugred hot?

Check the high speed needlesetting and prime the engine.

Is foreign matterclogging the fueltank or fuel line?

Is the battery forthe glow plugclip charged?

It should beready to go.

Is the highspeed needlesetting 1 to

1-1/2 turns outfrom closed (ifthe engine isbroken-in?)

Try starting theengine again.

NO

NO

NO

NO

YES

YES

YES

YES

YES

Does the enginequit when the

glow plug clip isremoved?

YESYESClear the engineof fuel.

NO

Reset the highspeed needle.

YES

NO

Replace theglow plug.

Check that thepressure line is

connected to themuffler. The fuel

may be bad.

The engine does not start

NODoes the engineturn over easilywith the glow

plug removed?

The engine maybe flooded.

Clear the engineof fuel.

YES

Check thatnothing is

caught in theengine. Check

that the thepull starteroperatessmoothly.

NO

Press theprimer pumpand check forfuel sprayingout of the fuelline through asmall hole. Ifso, replacethe fuel line. YES

Remove theobstruction fromthe fuel tank or

fuel line.

NO NOCharge orreplace thebatteries.

YES

Replace theglow plug.

Try starting theengine again.

20

RECOMMENDED ACCESSORIES

DuraTrax 4-Shoe Clutch Kit

Tweak your Axis for amazing acceleration!This kit increases surface area compared to 3-shoe clutch designs for an improved clutchbell grip. Requires bearings (DTXC1535) andclutch bells (DTXC2521-DTXC2526).DTXC2542

DuraTrax Deluxe Glow Plug Wrench

This single, heavy-duty, plated steel toolhandles FIVE metric hex sizes: 7-, 8-, 10-, 12-and 17mm—and includes a special 10mmsocket for pilot shafts! Threaded holes tappedbetween the wrenches store up to four spareglow plugs. DTXR1170

DuraTrax Red Alert™ 20% Racing Fuel

To make your TORQ™ 21 engine run faster,better and longer, you need the uniqueformula of DuraTrax Red Alert. Red Alertcontains 20% nitro plus a carefully race-testedblend of castor and synthetic oils. DTXP0600

DuraTrax Nitro Starter Set

This set includes everything you need to startracing. 5-way glow plug wrench, 1 qt. of RedAlert fuel, Hobbico® glow starter w/charger,fuel bottle and glow plug. DTXP0200

DuraTrax Crankshaft Locking Tool

Remove your engine’s clutch safely with thiseasy to use, anodized metal tool. Works withall .10 to .21 car and buggy engines.DTXR1100

DuraTrax XL Field Bag

Keep your gear loaded and race ready withthe XL field bag. Heavy duty black nylon bagwith red trim and white logo. DTXP2000

DuraTrax Body Repair Tape

Need a quick, easy fix for Lexan® bodydamage? When used with Shoe Goo II fixitcompound (DTXC2460), the tape's openweave, nylon mesh design offers enoughflexibility to prevent future cracking. DTXR1210

DuraTrax Street Traction™ Tires

These front/rear tires for your 1/8 scalemachine feature a flat radial tread designthat's ideally suited for action on concrete,asphalt and hard-packed dirt surfaces. Sold inpairs. DTXC8270

DuraTrax Kwik-Pit™ 500cc Fuel Bottle

Fast, clean pit stops are as close as the Kwik-Pit Fuel Bottle. The long, angled neck reacheseasily into your tank to prevent fuel spills, theclear plastic body keeps the fuel level in plainsight and moving fuel from the bottle to yourtank takes just a gentle squeeze. DTXP0150