TQ3 Problem

[Skipper]

Have the original T-maxx. Couple of weeks ago radio would not steer tires far enough and struggles too. Yet the steering trim will steer it completely each way. Was told by traxxas might be a bad potentiometer . Does that sound right, if so how much do one of those cost, or should i just go buy a new radio, probably a airtronics MX3. Any comments on what else could be wrong, and yes truck has new batterys and in the radio also and steering does not bind. And while i removed the steering servo to inspect i wiped grease off, what could i use to re-grease that, WD-40?
Any suggestions would help

 

[M@xximillion]

Yes it does sound like the pot is acting up, try cleaning it with some electronic circuit cleaner before replacing it. The contacts could be dirty. Usualy when a potentiometer dies, it dies all together.
As far as replacing the grease in the servo, I would use some di-Electric grease. You can find both the cleaner and grease at any Radioshack.

 

[Çh®i§tiªñ]

Couple of things.

One - When you can, get a high torque steering servo. Makes a HUGE difference on the TMaxx. I use a Hitec 5645-MG. Its digital, puts out a whopping 140 oz of torque and can be found for under 60 bucks!

Second - Check your servo saver. When they go, they can create a VERY similar scenario. One way to test it without getting a new servo saver would be to just put a servo horn (arm) on instead and see if the problem is still there. If you need to replace the servo saver, look into a Kimbrough heavy duty or even go with the ProLine servo saver steering linkage assembly (sweeeet!)

Third - When a potentiometer goes you can get some really odd response. For instance, mine was blown on the transmitter side, and would not steer all the way to the right and at half speed no less. Weird. Only way to veryify it is to have your LHS let you use a replacement or spare, if only for five minutes, to be certain.

Lastly, I regards to radios - I replaced my TQ3 setup with the Lynx 3D Spectra Combo package and LOVE IT! The only thing that was a bear to get through was the menu navigation of the TX itself. Once you get beyond that though, the systems kicks ass. 279$ for the kit with Spectra Module and Novak XXTra FM Synth RX. I like the setup so I can dial in my freq. and not have to deal with crystals. However, the new 3PK TX by Futaba will also allow me to use the Spectra module and looks like a rockin radio. The only thing is I havent found where I can just buy a bare TX only. I already have the rest.

I was just reading too where either JR or Aitronics ALSO released a radio that will use the Spectra module as well. When I find it, I will let you know which one.

Sorry if I'm babbling, a few glasses of Cognac and I'm feelin good hehehehe......

-Chris