Traxxas Velineon RUSTLER VXL BRUSHLESS User manual

owners manual
extreme brushless power system
MODEL 24076-74
MODEL 36076-74
MODEL 37076-74

2 •TRAXXAS
INTRODUCTION
Thank you for purchasing a Traxxas electric model equipped
with the new Velineon® Brushless Power System. This manual
covers the Rustler® VXL Stadium race truck, the Bandit™ VXL buggy
and the Stampede® VXL monster truck. The Velineon Power System
lets you experience the best that brushless motor technology
has to offer. Incredible speed, efficient operation, long run times,
and low-maintenance operation are just some of the benefits. No
matter which model you have selected, we are confident you will
be rewarded with high-speed performance in a durable, long-
lasting product.
This manual contains the instructions you will need to operate and
maintain your model so that you can enjoy it for years to come.
We want you to feel confident that you own one of the best-
performing models in the market and that it is backed by a team
of professionals who aim to provide the highest level of factory
support possible. Traxxas models are about experiencing total
performance and satisfaction, not just with your model, but also
with the company that stands behind it.
We know you’re excited about getting your new model on
the road, but it’s very important that you take some time to
read through the Owner’s Manual. This manual contains all the
necessary set-up and operating procedures that will allow you to
unlock the performance potential that Traxxas engineers designed
into your model. Also be sure to read and follow the precautions
and warnings in this manual and on any labels or tags attached to
your model. They are there to educate you on how to operate your
model safely and also get maximum life and performance from
your model.
Even if you are an experienced RC enthusiast, it’s important to
read and follow the procedures in this manual.
Thank you again for going with Traxxas. We work hard every day
to assure you receive the highest level of customer satisfaction
possible. We truly want you to enjoy your new model!
Traxxas Support
Traxxas support is with you every step of the
way. Refer to the next page to find out how to
contact us and what your support options are.
Quick Start
This manual is designed with a Quick
Start path that outlines the necessary
procedures to get your model up
and running in the shortest time possible. If you are an
experienced RC enthusiast you will find it helpful and fast.
Be sure and read through the rest of the manual to learn
about important safety, maintenance, and adjustment
procedures. Turn to page 11 to begin.
3BEFORE YOU
PROCEED
4SAFETY
PRECAUTIONS
7TOOLS, SUPPLIES
AND REQUIRED
EQUIPMENT
8ANATOMY OF
THE RUSTLER VXL
9ANATOMY OF
THE STAMPEDE VXL
10 ANATOMY OF
THE BANDIT VXL
11 QUICK START:
GETTING UP TO SPEED
12 TRAXXAS TQ i RADIO
AND VELINEON
POWER SYSTEM
20 ADJUSTING THE
ELECTRONIC SPEED
CONTROL
22 DRIVING YOUR MODEL
24 BASIC TUNING
ADJUSTMENTS
26 MAINTAINING
YOUR MODEL
27 ADVANCED TUNING
ADJUSTMENTS
28 TQ i ADVANCED
TUNING GUIDE
FCC Compliance
This device contains a module that complies with the limits for a Class B digital device as described in part 15 of the FCC rules. Operation is subject to the following two conditions: (1) This
device may not cause harmful interference, and (2) this device must accept any interference received, including interference that may cause undesired operation.
The limits for a Class B digital device are designed to provide reasonable protection against harmful interference in residential settings. This product generates, uses and can radiate radio
frequency energy, and, if not operated in accordance with the instructions, may cause harmful interference to radio communications. The user is cautioned that changes or modifications not
expressly approved by the party responsible for compliance could void the user’s authority to operate the equipment.
Canada, Industry Canada (IC)
This Class B digital apparatus complies with Canadian ICES-003 and RSS-210. This device complies with Industry Canada license exempt RSS standard(s). Operation is subject to the following
two conditions: This device may not cause interference, and This device must accept any interference, including interference that may cause undesired operation of the device.
Radio Frequency (RF) Exposure Statement
This equipment complies with radio frequency exposure limits set forth by FCC and Industry Canada for an uncontrolled environment. This equipment should be installed and
operated with a minimum distance of 20 centimeters between the radiator and your body or bystanders and must not be co-located or operating in conjunction with any other
antenna or transmitter.
Operation Frequency: 2414~2453 MHz
Maximum Radio Frequency Power: Maximum Peak Power 9.7 dBm

TRAXXAS •3
BEFORE YOU PROCEED
Traxxas
6250 Traxxas Way
McKinney, TX 75070
Phone: [phone]
Toll-free 1-888-TRAXXAS
Internet
Traxxas.com
E-mail: [email protected]
Entire contents ©2022 Traxxas.
Traxxas, Ready-To-Race, Ready-
To-Win, Rustler, Bandit, Stampede,
Velineon and ProGraphix
are trademarks or registered
trademarks of Traxxas. Other
brand names and marks are
the property of their respective
holders and are used only for
purposes of identification. No
part of this manual may be
reproduced or distributed in print
or electronic media without the
express written permission of
Traxxas. Specifications are subject
to change without notice.
Registering Your Model
In order to serve you better as our
customer, please register your product
within 10 days of your purchase online
at Traxxas.com/register.
Traxxas.com/register
Carefully read and follow all instructions in this and any accompanying
materials to prevent serious damage to your model. Failure to follow
these instructions will be considered abuse and/or neglect.
Before running your model, look over this entire manual and examine
the model carefully. If for some reason you decide it is not what
you wanted, then do not continue any further. Your hobby dealer
absolutely cannot accept a model for return or exchange after it has
been run.
WARNINGS, HELPFUL HINTS, & CROSS-REFERENCES
Throughout this manual, you’ll notice warnings and helpful hints
identified by the icons below. Be sure to read them!
An important warning about personal safety or avoiding
damage to your model and related components.
Special advice from Traxxas to make things easier
and more fun.
Refers you to a page with a related topic.
SUPPORT
If you have any questions about your model or its operation,
call the Traxxas Technical Support Line toll-free at:
1-888-TRAXXAS (1-888-872-9927)*
Technical support is available 7 days a week from 8:30am to 9:00pm
central time. Technical assistance is also available at Traxxas.com.
You may also e-mail customer support with your question at
[email protected]. Join thousands of registered members in our
online community at Traxxas.com.
Traxxas offers a full-service, on-site repair facility to handle any
of your Traxxas service needs. Maintenance and replacement
parts may be purchased directly from Traxxas by phone or online
at Traxxas.com. You can save time, along with shipping and handling
costs, by purchasing replacement parts from your local dealer.
Do not hesitate to contact us with any of your product support needs.
We want you to be thoroughly satisfied with your new model!
*Toll-free support is available to U.S. residents only.

4 •TRAXXAS
This model is not intended
for use by children under
14 years of age without the
supervision of a responsible
and knowledgeable adult.
Gearing and battery choice
(see LiPo Batteries, right)
effect the skill level of the
model. See chart below.
All instructions and
precautions outlined in this
manual should be strictly
followed to ensure safe
operation of your model.
SAFETY PRECAUTIONS
Gearing: Stock Pinion
Battery: 6-Cell NiMH
Voltage*: 7.2V
mAh: 3000+mAh
Gearing: Opt. Pinion
Battery: 7-Cell NiMH
Voltage*: 8.4V
mAh: 4000+mAh
Gearing: Opt. Gearing
Battery: 3S 20C LiPo
Voltage*: 11.1V
mAh: 4000+ mAh
Gearing: Opt. Gearing
Battery: 3S 20C LiPo
Voltage*: 11.1V
mAh: 8000 mAh
*Nominal
11
See the gearing chart on page
27 for more information.
All of us at Traxxas want you to safely enjoy your new model. Operate
your model sensibly and with care, and it will be exciting, safe, and
fun for you and those around you. Failure to operate your model in
a safe and responsible manner may result in property damage and
serious injury. The precautions outlined in this manual should be
strictly followed to help ensure safe operation. You alone must see
that the instructions are followed and the precautions are adhered to.
Important Points to Remember
• Your model is not intended for use on public roads or congested areas
where its operation can conflict with or disrupt pedestrian or vehicular
traffic.
• Never, under any circumstances, operate the model in crowds of people.
Your model is very fast and could cause injury if allowed to collide with
anyone.
• Because your model is controlled by radio, it is subject to radio
interference from many sources that are beyond your control. Since
radio interference can cause momentary losses of radio control, always
allow a safety margin in all directions around the model in order to
prevent collisions.
• The motor, battery, and speed control can become hot during use. Be
careful to avoid getting burned.
• Don’t operate your model at night, or anytime your line of sight to the
model may be obstructed or impaired in any way.
• Most importantly, use good common sense at all times.
Speed Control
Your model’s electronic speed control is an extremely powerful
electronic device capable of delivering high current. Please closely follow
these precautions to prevent damage to the speed control or other
components.
• Disconnect the Battery: Always disconnect the battery or batteries from
the speed control when not in use.
• Insulate the Wires: Always insulate exposed wiring with heat shrink
tubing to prevent short circuits.
• Transmitter on First: Switch on your transmitter first before switching
on the speed control to prevent runaways and erratic performance.
• Don’t Get Burned: The ESC and motor can become extremely hot
during use, so be careful not to touch them until they cool. Supply
adequate airflow for cooling..
• Use the Factory Installed Connectors: Do not change the battery and
motor connectors. Improper wiring can cause fire or damage to the ESC.
Please note that modified speed controls can be subject to a rewiring
fee when returned for service.
• No Reverse Voltage: The ESC is not protected against reverse polarity
voltage.
• No Schottky Diodes: External schottky diodes are not compatible with
reversing speed controls. Using a schottky diode with your Traxxas
speed control will damage the ESC and void the 30-day warranty.
• Always adhere to the minimum and maximum limitations of the speed
control as stated in the specifications table. If your ESC operates on two
batteries, do not mix battery types and capacities. Use the same voltage
and capacity for both batteries. Using mismatched battery packs could
damage the batteries and electronic speed control.
Recycling Your Traxxas Power Cell NiMH Battery
Traxxas strongly encourages you to recycle your Power Cell NiMH
battery when it has reached the end of its useful life. Do not throw your
battery in the trash. All Power Cell NiMH battery packs display the RBRC
(Rechargeable Battery Recycling Corporation) icon, indicating they are
recyclable. To find a recycling center near you, ask your local hobby dealer
or visit www.call2recycle.org.

TRAXXAS •5
Your model is able to use LiPo
batteries. Charging and discharging batteries has the
potential for fire, explosion, serious injury, and property damage if
not performed per the instructions. Before use, read and follow all
manufacturer’s instructions, warnings, and precautions. In addition,
Lithium Polymer (LiPo) batteries pose a SEVERE risk of fire if not
properly handled per the instructions and require special care and
handling procedures for long life and safe operation. LiPo batteries
are intended only for advanced users that are educated on the risks
associated with LiPo battery use. Traxxas does not recommend
that anyone under the age of 18 use or handle LiPo battery packs
without the supervision of a knowledgeable and responsible adult.
Dispose of used batteries according to the instructions.
Important Warnings for users of Lithium Polymer (LiPo)
batteries:
• Your model is able to use LiPo batteries. LiPo batteries have a
minimum safe discharge voltage threshold that should not be
exceeded. The electronic speed control is equipped with built-in
Low-Voltage Detection that alerts the driver when LiPo batteries
have reached their minimum voltage (discharge) threshold. It is the
driver’s responsibility to stop immediately to prevent the battery
pack from being discharged below its safe minimum threshold.
• Low-Voltage Detection is just one part of a comprehensive plan
for safe LiPo battery use. It is critical to follow all instructions for
safe and proper charging, use, and storage of LiPo batteries. Make
sure you understand how to use your LiPo batteries. If you have
questions about LiPo battery usage, please consult with your local
hobby dealer or contact the battery manufacturer. As a reminder, all
batteries should be recycled at the end of their useful life.
• ONLY use a Traxxas iD charger to charge Traxxas iD batteries.
ONLY use a Lithium Polymer (LiPo) balance charger with a balance
adapter port to charge LiPo batteries. Never use NiMH or NiCad-type
chargers or charge modes to charge LiPo batteries. DO NOT charge
LiPo batteries with a NiMH-only charger. The use of a NiMH or NiCad
charger or charge mode will damage LiPo batteries and may cause
fire, personal injury, and/or property damage.
• NEVER charge LiPo battery packs in series or parallel. Charging
packs in series or parallel may result in improper charger cell
recognition and an improper charging rate that may lead to
overcharging, cell imbalance, cell damage, and fire.
FIRE HAZARD!
WARNING! CAUTION! DANGER!
• ALWAYS inspect your LiPo batteries carefully before
charging. Look for any loose leads or connectors,
damaged wire insulation, damaged cell packaging, impact
damage, fluid leaks, swelling (a sign of internal damage), cell
deformity, missing labels, or any other damage or irregularity. If
any of these conditions are observed, do not charge or use the
battery pack. Follow the disposal instructions included with your
battery to properly and safely dispose of the battery.
• DO NOT store or charge LiPo batteries with or around other
batteries or battery packs of any type, including other LiPos.
• Store and transport your battery pack(s) in a cool dry place.
DO NOT store in direct sunlight. DO NOT allow the storage
temperature to exceed 140°F or 60°C, such as in the trunk of a car,
or the cells may be damaged and create a fire risk.
• DO NOT disassemble LiPo batteries or cells.
• DO NOT attempt to build your own LiPo battery pack from loose
cells.
Charging and handling precautions for all battery types:
• BEFORE you charge, ALWAYS confirm that the charger
settings exactly match the type (chemistry), specification,
and configuration of the battery to be charged. DO NOT exceed
the maximum manufacturer recommended charge rate.
• DO NOT attempt to charge non-rechargeable batteries (explosion
hazard), batteries that have an internal charge circuit or a
protection circuit, batteries that have been altered from original
manufacturer configuration, or batteries that have missing or
unreadable labels, preventing you from properly identifying the
battery type and specifications. ALWAYS use a Traxxas iD charger
to charge Traxxas iD batteries. DO NOT use a non-Traxxas charger
to charge Traxxas iD batteries. It is not recommended, but if you
choose to use a non-Traxxas charger or battery, read and follow
all of the manufacturer’s warnings and instructions.
• DO NOT exceed the maximum manufacturer recommended
charge rate.
• DO NOT let any exposed battery contacts or wires touch each other.
This will cause the battery to short circuit and create the risk of fire.
• While charging or discharging, ALWAYS place the battery (all
types of batteries) in a fire retardant/fire proof container and on
a non-flammable surface such as concrete.
(continued on next page)
SAFETY PRECAUTIONS

6 •TRAXXAS
SAFETY PRECAUTIONS
• DO NOT charge batteries inside of an automobile. DO NOT
charge batteries while driving in an automobile.
• NEVER charge batteries on wood, cloth, carpet, or on any other
flammable material.
• ALWAYS charge batteries in a well-ventilated area.
• REMOVE flammable items and combustible materials from the
charging area.
• DO NOT leave the charger and battery unattended while
charging, discharging, or anytime the charger is ON with a
battery connected. If there are any signs of a malfunction or in
the event of an emergency, unplug the charger from the power
source and disconnect the battery from the charger.
• DO NOT operate the charger in a cluttered space, or place
objects on top of the charger or battery.
• If any battery or battery cell is damaged in any way, DO NOT
charge, discharge, or use the battery.
• Keep a Class D fire extinguisher nearby in case of fire.
• DO NOT disassemble, crush, short circuit, or expose the batteries
to flame or other source of ignition. Toxic materials could be
released. If eye or skin contact occurs, flush with water.
• If a battery gets hot to the touch during the charging process
(temperature greater than 110°F / 43°C), immediately
disconnect the battery from the charger and discontinue
charging.
• Allow the battery pack to cool off between runs (before
charging).
• ALWAYS unplug the charger and disconnect the battery when
not in use.
• ALWAYS unplug the battery from the electronic speed control
when the model is not in use and when it is being stored or
transported.
• DO NOT disassemble the charger.
• REMOVE the battery from your model or device before charging.
• DO NOT expose the charger to water or moisture.
• ALWAYS store battery packs safely out of the reach of children
or pets. Children should always have adult supervision when
charging and handling batteries.
• Nickel-Metal Hydride (NiMH) batteries must be recycled or
disposed of properly.
• Always proceed with caution and use good common sense at all
times.
(continued from previous page)

TRAXXAS •7
TOOLS, SUPPLIES AND REQUIRED EQUIPMENT
Your model comes with a set of specialty metric tools. You’ll need to purchase other items, available from your hobby dealer, to operate
and maintain your model.
Recommended Equipment
These items are not required
for the operation of your
model, but are a good idea to
include in any RC toolbox:
• Safety glasses
• Traxxas Ultra Premium Tire
Glue, Part #6468 (CA glue)
• Hobby knife
• Side cutters and/or needle
nose pliers
• Philips screwdriver
• Soldering iron
For more information on
batteries, see Use the Right
Batteries on page 15.
U-joint wrench
Supplied Tools and Equipment
Various pre-load spacers and shock
pistons (on parts tree) see page 24 Body clips
4-way wrench
Required Equipment
(sold separately)
2.0mm “L” wrench 1.5mm “L” wrench Turnbuckle wrench 2.5mm “L” wrench
Optional Pinion
Gear see page 27
*Battery and charger style are subject to change and may vary from images. †Gear selection varies by model
4 AA alkaline
batteries
Battery charger*
6- or 7-cell NiMH battery pack,
or 2s LiPo battery pack,
with Traxxas High-Current Connector*
Foam battery spacer block
Traxxas recommends genuine Traxxas iD® batteries and chargers for
safer charging, maximum battery life, and performance.

8 •TRAXXAS
ANATOMY OF THE RUSTLER VXL
Half Shaft
Brushless Motor
(Velineon® 3500)
Transmission
Spur Gear
Pinion Gear
Slipper Clutch
Electronic Speed Control (VXL-3s)
Battery Compartment
Battery Hold-Down
Light Pipe Receiver Box
Upper Chassis Plate
Antenna Mount
Suspension
Arm (Front)
Front
Body Mount
Front Bumper
Front
Shock Tower
Steering Servo
(under Upper Chassis Plate)
Shock
(Oil Damper)
Turnbuckle
(Toe Link)
Rear
Shock Tower
Rear Body Mount
Chassis Turnbuckle
(Front Camber Link )
Suspension
Arm (Rear)
Servo Saver
(not visible)
Traxxas High-
Current Connector
Gear Cover
(ghosted)
Turnbuckle
(Rear Camber Link )
EZ-Set® Button (On/Off Button)
Caster Block
Steering Block

TRAXXAS •9
Light Pipe
Half Shaft
Transmission
Spur Gear
Pinion Gear
Slipper Clutch
Electronic Speed
Control (VXL-3s)
Chassis
Battery
Compartment
Battery
Hold-Down
Receiver
Box
Front Body Mount
Antenna Mount
Suspension
Arm (Front)
Bulkhead
Front
Bumper
Front
Shock Tower
Steering Servo
Shock (Oil Damper)
Turnbuckle (Toe Link)
ANATOMY OF THE STAMPEDE VXL
Suspension
Arm (Rear)
Wheelie Bar
Turnbuckle
(Rear Camber Link )
Turnbuckle
(Front Camber Link )
Brushless Motor
(Velineon® 3500)
Gear Cover
(ghosted)
Traxxas High-
Current Connector
Rear
Shock Tower
Rear Body Mount
EZ-Set® Button
(On/Off Button)
Caster Block
Steering Block

10 •TRAXXAS
Brushless Motor
(Velineon® 3500)
ANATOMY OF THE BANDIT VXL
Half Shaft
Transmission
Spur Gear
Pinion Gear
Slipper Clutch
Electronic Speed
Control (VXL-3s)
Battery
Compartment
Battery Hold-Down
Upper Chassis Plate
Antenna Mount
Suspension
Arm (Front)
Front
Body Mount
Front Bumper
Front
Shock Tower
Steering Servo
(under Upper Chassis Plate)
Shock
(Oil Damper)
Turnbuckle
(Toe Link)
Rear
Shock Tower
Rear Body Mount
Chassis
Turnbuckle (Front
Camber Link )
Suspension
Arm (Rear)
Servo Saver
(not visible)
Traxxas High-
Current Connector
Gear Cover
(ghosted)
Turnbuckle
(Rear Camber Link )
Wing Mount Hole
EZ-Set® Button
(On/Off Button)
Caster Block
Steering Block
Receiver
Box
Light
Pipe