If you are new to the hobby, you may be unfamiliar with all the upgrades available for your RC vehicle. Traxxas makes only hobby-grade vehicles. Hobby-grade vehicles differ from toys because they are easy for the user to modify, accessorize, or repair with the tools included in the kit. This article will discuss how to get the most speed from your Traxxas vehicle with a combination of available upgrades.
Traxxas models are renowned for their high performance and durability. Vehicles like the Bandit® and Rustler® are already capable of 35+ mph out of the box. This article focuses on the over-the-top 70+ mph power that comes from brushless motors and LiPo power.
Brushless Power
Traxxas vehicles like the Bandit, Rustler, Stampede® and 2WD Slash® feature the Titan® 12-turn motor for inexpensive and reliable fun. Already capable of 35+ mph, these models will still benefit dramatically from the addition of a brushless system. The Velineon® system consists of a new brushless motor and the powerful VXL-3s™ Electronic Speed Control. Learn more about the system here.
Disconnect the motor and unplug the ESC from the receiver
In order to install the Velineon system, you must first remove your old XL-5™ speed control and motor. Begin by disconnecting the motor wires from the XL-5 ESC. Next, open the receiver box by removing the wire cover and then the top lid. Unplug the ESC wires from channel 2 of the receiver.
Remove the ESC and mounting plate
First unscrew the XL-5 from the mounting plate and remove it. Next, remove the four screws holding the mounting plate to the chassis (Not applicable on Slash models).
Install the new mounting plate
You will need to install a new mounting plate to accommodate the VXL-3s speed control. Install the mounting plate that comes in the Velineon kit and secure it by reusing the four screws from the original plate.
Mount the VXL-3s ESC
Mount the VXL-3s ESC to the new mounting plate and tighten it down with two screws. Route the receiver wires through the waterproof box cover and reinsert the plug into channel 2 of the receiver. Notice there are two channels marked CH1 so channel two is the third slot from the bottom, not the second. Push any excess wire into the receiver box and then seal both waterproof lids.
Remove the dust cover
In order to replace the Titan motor, begin by removing the right rear wheel with the 4-way tool included with the vehicle. With the wheel off, unscrew the black dust cover from the transmission case.
Unscrew the Titan motor
With the dust cover removed, unscrew the two screws holding the Titan motor to the transmission case and remove it from the vehicle.
Install the Velineon motor and pinion gear
Install the new Velineon motor with the included screws, but don't tighten them down all the way. Gear mesh is critical to a properly functioning vehicle. Before installing your gears, consult this video on the correct method to set the gear mesh. You may reuse the old gears or install new high speed gears. Gearing choices will be discussed in the next section. Once the gear mesh is set, reattach the dust cover and rear wheel.
Reattaching the motor wires
Brushless motors must be wired in the correct sequence to function properly. The Velineon wires are color coded to make this easy. Route the wires through the opening and connect them. After installing your brushless system, it's time to choose a battery.
Batteries
The key to the Velineon brushless system's blistering speed is its ability to transform higher voltage LiPo batteries into raw power. Traxxas Lithium Polymer or "LiPo" batteries deliver much more punch than typical NiMH batteries. The Velineon VXL-3s system accepts both 2-cell (7.4 V) and 3-cell (11.1 V) LiPo configurations. LiPo power unlocks all the speed potential of the Velineon brushless system. Batteries come in different sizes so be sure to consult your model's battery page on Traxxas.com to find out which batteries fit your model. For more information about batteries and chargers, please follow this link.
Gearing
The smaller pinion gear mounts onto the motor shaft to drive the larger spur gear. Traxxas offers many different sized gears to provide nearly limitless combinations. A larger pinion gear or a smaller spur gear will both provide more speed. A smaller pinion gear or a larger spur gear will provide more torque and acceleration, but less top speed. You may change one or both gears to achieve the desired effect. Be advised that gearing your vehicle for speed makes the engine work harder and heat up faster. High speed gearing should only be used for hard flat surfaces like pavement. The gearing chart below covers a wide range of gear options. A lower numerical number on the chart equates to more speed. If you still have questions or need help with any of the steps in this video, please call our friendly customer service department at 1-888-TRAXXAS.
