Model Forum / Radio Controlled / Land Models / November 2003

after doing electric off and on for several years, i recently purchased a
traxxas nitro rustler.  i watched their break in procedure on the included
dvd several times;  today i went out to a nice flat parking lot and did the
engine break in routine.  the good thing is that using the "easy start" was
in fact easy.  the motor started right up every time.  so far i really like
this method of starting.

now here is the questionable part.   this thing was on the verge of being
uncontrollable. seems like every time i would break the truck would have a
tendency to veer off to the left then violently spin around.   if i barely
touch the steering to correct, it still violently spins.   by then end of
the 5 tanks of fuel, i have just about destroyed the rear tires.   i know
these are not street tires but i was trying very hard NOT to spin out.  the
least little sterring input results in a violent spin out and a few flip
overs.   like i say i am pretty used to driving using my electrics (with
modified motors) so i don't know if this is a setup problem or a combination
of gobs more torque on the nitro plus the absence of dual rates on the radio
(this was the rtr with the cheapo traxxas radion).

other factors:  the temperature today is around 55 degrees or so, not cold
but cool.  after the breakin, i did run it a little in the grass / dirt area
and it did seem to hold traction a little better.   i guess i am just not
used to sooo much power / torque.

i would appreciate any inputs / suggestions anyone may have as to what i can
do to keep this thing under control.   other than the handling (which is
about 80% of driving), the motor was great.   by the end of the breakin
period was running smooth and no flame outs.

gw