Simple Racing Shock Tips & Tricks

Ever wonder why the fast guy's cars seem to soak up the bumps, when yours is bouncing all over the place? A lot of this is tuning (springs and fluid), but a lot of it is simple tricks that you may not be aware of. Tuning is going to vary from track to track, but I will address some simple hacks that can put you above other racers.

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Parts is parts?

Not all shock parts are made the same. If your kit manufacture makes upgrades for the shocks, buy them. If cost is an issue, at least get the machined pistons. Machined parts have a higher tolerance, are less likely to stick, and will increase both the speed and longevity of the parts. Depicted left is an Associated 1.6 machined nylon piston. A marker has been passed over the piston engraving, so that it is easier to read. 

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Proper Tools

Buy proper tools to assist with your shock build. Marring of the shock shaft is the number one reason why shock seals fail, and will cost you money when rebuilding. If cost is an issue, use a scrap section of cloth or cardboard to act as a shield when assembling. Just don't clamp on it and call it good. Doing so will leave marks on the shaft, and this will tear up the seals resulting in both leaking, and inconsistency on the track.

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Stick it 

Use minimal thread lock (blue) on the piston screws, and allow it to dry overnight prior to installing fluid. Nothing worse then a piston working its way loose inside the shock during a run. Also, heavily lube the seals with Associated Green Slime (AE 1105), or equivalent. This will help lubricate the seals for initial passes until the fluid can take over. Running dry seals can cause them to unseat, and wear. Be advised that if using the lube, there may be minor leakage to the seals for a few runs, this is normal. If the leaking is excessive, or does not stop quickly, you may need to tear the shock down to asses what the issue is. Keep the shaft / seal area clean, an excessive build up of dirt will reduce the life of the seals. A simple shock brush is all that is needed (VRCMS 009).

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Double Check it

Ensure that all required parts are present (left over parts are never good), seated / orientated properly, and move smoothly. Also ensure that the shock ends are symmetrical, meaning they are threaded to the same length. Having one miss-threaded to a differing length will result in inconsistent handling and is a common mistake.

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Pillows

This is a hack I picked up from a sponsored racer. Install an extra shock seal at the base of the shaft on all shocks. This tip is not as noticeable on very smooth tracks, but on exceptionally rough surfaces, the extra rubber spacer makes the landings feel less "jarring", resulting in a smoother more controlled run.

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Simple common sense tricks, result in faster times, less wrenching and more fun.