User's Manual
26 
•
 TRAXXAS
MAINTAINING YOUR MODEL
Your model requires timely maintenance in order to stay in top 
running condition. The following procedures should be taken 
very seriously.
Frequently inspect the vehicle for obvious damage or wear. Look for:
1.  Cracked, bent, or damaged parts 
2.  Check the wheels and steering for binding. 
3.  Check the operation of the shock absorbers. 
4.  Check the wiring for any frayed wires or loose connections.
5.  Check the mounting of the receiver and servo(s) and 
speed control.
6.  Check the tightness of the wheel nuts with a wrench.
7.  Check the operation of the radio system, especially the 
condition of the batteries.
8.  Check for any loose screws in the chassis structure 
or suspension.
9.  The steering servo saver will wear out over time. If the steering 
becomes loose, the servo saver should be replaced.
10. Inspect the gears for wear, broken teeth, or debris lodged 
between the teeth. 
11. Check the tightness of the slipper clutch.
Other periodic maintenance:
• Slipper clutch pads 
(friction material): 
Under normal use, 
the friction material 
in the slipper clutch 
should wear very slowly. 
If the thickness of any one of 
the slipper clutch pads is 1.8mm or 
less, the friction disc should be replaced. 
Measure the pad thickness using calipers or 
measuring against the diameter of the 1.5 and 2.0mm hex 
wrenches provided with the model.
• Chassis: Keep the chassis clean of accumulated dirt and grime. 
Periodically inspect the chassis for damage
• Steering: Over time, you may notice increased looseness in the 
steering system. There are several components which will wear 
out from use: the servo saver (Part #3744), the bellcrank bushings 
(Part #2545), and the tie rod ends (Part #2742). Replace these 
components as needed to restore factory tolerances. The bellcrank 
bushings (Rustler VXL and Bandit VXL only) may be replaced with 
5x8mm ball bearings (Part #2728). Rustler and Bandit bellcranks can 
also be upgraded to Part #6845 bellcranks with built-in servo saver.
• Shocks: Keep the oil level in the shocks full. Use only 100% 
pure silicon shock oil to prolong the life of the seals. If you are 
experiencing leakage around the top of the shock, inspect the 
bladder in the top cap for signs of damage or distortion from 
overtightening. If the bottom of the shock is leaking, then it 
is time for a rebuild. The Traxxas rebuild kit for two shocks is 
part #2362. 
• Suspension: Periodically inspect the model for signs of damage 
such as bent or dirty suspension pins, bent turnbuckles, loose 
screws, and any signs of stress or bending. Replace components 
as needed.
• Driveline: Inspect the driveline for signs of wear such as worn 
drive yokes, dirty axle half shafts, and any unusual noise or 
binding. If a u-joint pops apart then it is time to replace the part. 
Remove the gear cover and Inspect the spur gear for wear and 
check the tightness of set screws in the pinion gears. Tighten, 
clean, or replace components as needed.
Storage
When you are through running the model for the day, blow it off 
with compressed air or use a soft bristled paint brush to dust-off 
the vehicle.
Always disconnect and remove the battery from the model 
whenever the model is stored. If the model will be stored for a long 
time, then also remove the batteries from the transmitter.
Always wear eye protection 
when using compressed 
air or spray cleaners and 
lubricants.
High performance vehicles 
generate small vibrations 
while driving. These 
vibrations may loosen 
hardware over time and 
require attention. Always 
check your wheel nuts and 
other hardware and tighten 
or replace when necessary.
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