How to Build the Ultimate Rustler in Three Easy Stages
Traxxas 8712 tool kit
You can use the tool kit that comes with the Rustler to install all the parts in this article, but upgrading your tools can be just as important as your vehicle modifications. The Traxxas 8712 tool kit includes premium hex bits and nut drivers to perform upgrades or maintenance on your Traxxas model. The kit also includes an overmolded grip and convenient embroidered storage case.
Phase 1 - Heavy-Duty Suspension Arms
Heavy-Duty Suspension Arms
Traxxas now offers upgraded Heavy Duty arms for the Rustler molded in our strongest HD composite plastic. The new HD arms are even stronger than the Rustler’s stock parts, and the composite formula maintains its flexibility in cold weather. And added bonus, the arms come in colors. We’re going with green arms for this Rustler, but you can also get orange, blue, red, and black of course.
The Heavy Duty arms are shaped to balance rigidity and flex for maximum performance and durability. Installation is easy: just remove the old arms and replace with the new parts. If you forget which screw goes where, you can consult the Rustler’s exploded views here. Installation takes only a few minutes with just three screws per arm to remove.
Front HD arms installed
Rear HD arms installed
For less than $20 and twenty minutes at the bench, this Rustler is even tougher and sharper-looking than before.
Phase 2: Aluminum Options and Servo Upgrade
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We’ll install machined aluminum suspension and steering parts in Phase 2 to boost durability even further, and put more style points on the board at the same time. Like the HD arms, these parts are direct replacements for the stock plastic parts. For a dramatic increase in steering performance and precision, we’re also upgrading the servo. You have several options when it comes to upgrading your servo. The 2075R servo provides fast reaction times and metal gears for increased durability. In this build, we're kicking it into high gear with our best servo: the High-Torque 400 Brushless.
2075R Metal Gear Servo
High Torque 400 Brushless Servo
Servo comparisonThe High-Torque 400 is incredibly powerful metal-gear servo, delivering over five times the power of the Rustler’s standard 2056 servo. The 400’s brushless motor gives it super speed and precision, and 400 oz.-in. of torque to easily aim the Rustler’s fat tires. The red aluminum mid-case looks trick, but it’s not just about style: it also pulls away heat and stiffens the case. You’ll need to remove the Rustler’s upper deck to install the servo and the aluminum bellcranks. You can do it without removing the front suspension.
Remove the steering assembly and servo
Install the bellcranks and new servoWe’re going with green for the steering blocks, caster blocks, bellcranks, and rear uprights. Compact parts like these are ideal for aluminum construction. TIP: the aluminum parts’ sturdy, clear blister packs make handy trays to organize hardware as you work.
The laser-etched Traxxas logo really stands out against the green anodizing. The tough 6061-T6 aluminum provides flex-free performance for improved handling and steering precision. Don't forget to install the new bearings. They're included with the aluminum parts and they provide more precision than the Rustler's standard bushings.
Bonus Upgrade: Big Bore Aluminum Shocks
After adding the HD arms and aluminum suspension components, we couldn’t resist adding the Big Bore Aluminum Shock set. These beauties feature hard-anodized bodies with slick PTFE-coated bores for extremely long wear, and scuff-resistant Titanium Nitride-coated shafts that reduce friction on the X-ring seals to the absolute minimum. Progressive-rate springs and silicone shock oil are included, just fill ‘em up and bolt them on. The stock Ultra Shocks are excellent nylon composite-body units, but the Big Bore’s hard-anodized aluminum bodies and TiN-coated shafts offer even slicker operation and longer wear.
5862 Big Bore Shocks
Shock comparison
Installed Big Bore shocksTraxxas LED Light Kits
Rustler is now available out of the box with a factory-installed LED Light Kit. The light kit is available separately to be installed on all Rustler models, and is a great addition to your custom build. The front bumper includes 4 brilliant white LEDs, while the rear bumper features two red LEDs to enhance visibility. The kit is fully waterproof, and includes everything needed for installation.
Phase 3: Velineon® Brushless Power-Up
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Phases 1 and 2 went a long way toward improving the Rustlers durability, appearance, and steering precision. For Phase 3, we’re going to make a huge leap in performance with the Velineon VXL-3s™ brushless system. With the Traxxas Power-Up Program, you can trade in the Rustler’s stock XL-5™ speed control and Titan® 550 motor for a discount on the Velineon system. You can make the exchange by mail, or at your participating Traxxas dealer—get all the details here. The Velineon system installs just like the stock speed control and motor. Simply remove the XL-5 and Titan 550, and replace with the VXL-3s and 3500 motor.
Stock Gearing Vs Brushless Gearing
For maximum performance, we’ll replace the Rustler’s 16-tooth pinion and 90-tooth spur gear with a 25-tooth pinion and 83-tooth spur gear, as used by the Rustler VXL. The Velineon system will also work just fine with the stock gearing and your Rustler will still go a lot faster, but not quite as fast as it can go with the VXL gearing.
Gear comparison
Stock Rustler gearing
Velineon brushless gearingTraxxas Magnum 272R™ Transmission
Get the most out of the added power of the Velineon Brushless system with the Magnum 272R Transmission. Developed for the hard-hitting Drag Slash, the 272R features a low-profile design, sealed differential, 3.2 mm motor plate, hardened steel top shaft, and more. The Pro Series Magnum 272R represents a complete performance redesign for VXL 2WD Bandit®, Rustler, Stampede®, or Slash®.
Out of the box, the Velineon is set up for use with LiPo batteries with Low Voltage Detection turned on, as confirmed by the green LED when you turn the system on. If you’re using NiMH batteries, switch Low Voltage Detection off by pressing and holding the EZ-Set® button until the LED turns from green to red.
Green light for LiPo batteries
Red light for NiMH batteriesDon’t forget to let the world know your Rustler is now Velineon brushless-powered! The Velineon system includes a decal sheet so the other guys will know what you’re packing. This Rustler is ready to rip with brushless power, bombproof durability, and style to spare!
Velineon decals
Ready for action
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