Rebuilding a Velineon 3500 Brushless Motor

Article #579429

Keep Your Velineon Motor Running Like New

Brushless RC motors like the Velineon^® 3500 provide superior performance and efficiency compared to their brushed counterparts. Brushless motors can also be rebuilt to keep them running for years of high performance fun. Bearings are the typical failure point for brushless motors. Failing bearings usually cause the motor to run hot and may reduce performance and run time. They may also cause the motor to feel rough and scratchy if you turn the output shaft by hand. This article will demonstrate how to rebuild the Velineon 3500 brushless motor by replacing the bearings and other common wear items.

Required Tools

Velineon 3500 Rebuild Kit #3352R
1.5mm hex driver
2mm hex driver
4mm nut driver
Eye protection

The Rebuild

Inspect the motor

This motor came to our repair lab with symptoms of overheating. Some surface rust is evident on the pinion gear and the motor feels scratchy when you spin the gear by hand. This is typically the sign of a failed bearing.

Remove all parts

Begin by removing everything from the motor. Use a 2mm hex driver to remove the motor plate screws and a 1.5mm driver for the grub screw on the pinion gear.

Remove the plastic cover

Pop the plastic cover off the end of the motor. Use the 1.5mm hex to remove all four screws securing the end bell.

Remove the end bell

Gently pry the end bell out of the end of the motor. It is not necessary to remove the bearing since the rebuild kit includes a new end bell. Do not lose any thin shims which may be on the motor shaft. They will be reused.

Remove the rotor

The rotor is held in place by a strong magnetic field. Press the motor shaft down onto a hard surface like a table. This will push the rotor through the can. Grip the rotor tightly and pull it out of the can. Be careful when removing the rotor! The magnetic force can cause the rotor to snap back and pinch your fingers.

Tap the front bearing out

With the rotor out, it’s time to remove the front bearing from the aluminum can. This bearing can be difficult to remove. The 4mm nut driver from the Traxxas Tool Kit is the perfect size to tap the bearing out without breaking it.

Inspect the bearings

A closer inspection of the bearings reveals the problem. These bearings have almost rusted solid, causing the motor to work harder and overheat. After bearings get wet, it is important to spray them with WD-40 to expel any water. This will keep them healthy and running smoothly. Fortunately this motor can be rebuilt to restore its full performance.

Install the replacement parts

The Velineon 3500 rebuild kit contains all the parts required to rebuild this motor. Spray out the motor can with an electric motor cleaner spray if you have it or compressed air. Be sure to wear eye protection while cleaning out the can. Replace the two bearings and install the new brass bushing on the rear of the motor shaft. Reuse the thin washers on the motor shaft. They should be closest to the center.

Reassemble and clean the motor

Carefully reinsert the rotor into the can to avoid pinching your fingers. Reinstall the rear end bell and attach it with the included screws. Finally, clean the outside of the can and reinstall the cap. Your motor is now rebuilt and ready for action!

The motor featured in this article did not receive the proper attention and maintenance required after being run in water. Be sure to read the wet weather maintenance tips featured in your vehicle's manual for proper care. With good care, your Velineon motor can provide years of high-performance fun and thrills.

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