Traxxas models are known for durability and high performance. Proven platforms like
Slash, Stampede, Rustler, and Bandit deliver fast, reliable fun. If you're
gearing up for the track or just looking to give your truck a boost in speed,
installing just a few additional components and upgrading the battery
will take your model to the next level of performance.
Keep watching to the end for easy installation instructions. The Velineon
power system is the ultimate upgrade for speed, power, and reliability. Optimized
for use with LiPo batteries, the VXL-3s offers smooth throttle response and
rock-solid performance. The accompanying Velineon brushless motor provides
plenty of power for big jumps and high speeds. The VXL-3s allows for the use of
2-cell and 3-cell LiPo batteries, which can provide more power and run time
than stock batteries. Visit Traxxas.com to see available LiPo batteries and
chargers. LiPo batteries come in different sizes, so check the battery
section under your model for all compatible batteries. Adjusting the
gearing setup can also increase top speed. We will put a 28-tooth pinion gear
and an 83-tooth spur gear in our Rustler for high speed running on pavement.
Check the manual for all compatible gearing combinations for your model, and see the
related video for more information on gearing setup. Once you have the upgraded
components you want, follow these steps for installation start by removing the
body and battery from the vehicle.
Disconnect the electronic speed control from the motor. Open the wire cover and
receiver box.
Unplug the speed control from the channel 2 slot in the receiver. Remove
the electronic speed control and install the new VXL-3s unit. For certain models,
remove the existing mounting plate and install the plate included with the
VXL-3s. Remove the rear wheel and gear cover. To access the motor, take out the screws
from the original motor and remove the motor. Remove the existing spur gear from
the slipper clutch assembly. Put the new Velineon motor in place and secure with
the included hardware. Don't fully tighten the screws yet--we will need some
play in the motor in order to set the gear mesh. Install the new spur gear.
Now install the new pinion gear and secure it on the flat side of the shaft.
Adjust the placement of the motor if needed, and make sure the pinion gear and spur gear
are lined up. See the related video for more information on setting the gear mesh.
Once the gear mesh is set, tighten down the motor screws. Replace the gear
cover and wheel. Put the wire from the speed control through the wire cover and
plug in to the channel 2 slot in the receiver. Close the receiver box and wire
cover. Connect the ESC to the motor using the color-coded wires. After installing
these components, perform a calibration on the speed control. See the related
video for a demonstration. For general driving and long run times, we will use
the 5800 mAh 2-cell LiPo in this Rustler. For maximum speed,
a 4000mAh 3-cell LiPo can be used. 3-cell LiPo batteries should be used
carefully by experienced drivers. When using LiPo batteries, make sure low
voltage detection is enabled on the speed control. See the related video to
learn how to properly set your ESC for use of nickel metal hydride or LiPo
batteries. The Community Forum and Support section
are also great resources for getting ideas on how to increase performance.
For more tips and tricks, subscribe to Traxxas Support here on Youtube.