How to Rebuild Traxxas Ultra Shocks – 7 Steps

– How to Rebuild Traxxas Ultra Shocks – (Video Recap)

Rebuilding your Traxxas Ultra Shocks is an essential maintenance task that ensures optimal performance of your RC vehicle. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you through the process:

Tools and Materials Needed

• Traxxas Ultra Shock Rebuild Kit (#2362)
• Pliers
• Silicone Shock Oil
• Paper towels
• Small container for old oil

Step-by-Step Rebuild Process

1. Remove the Shocks
   • Use a 2mm or 3mm hex driver to remove the upper and lower shock screws.
2. Disassemble the Shock
   • Remove the spring retainer and spring.
   • Unscrew the shock cap and drain the old oil into a container.
3. Remove Internal Components
   • Use shock shaft pliers to remove the rod end from the shaft
   • Remove the lower cap, seals, and seal spacer
4. Clean and Inspect
   • Clean all parts thoroughly and inspect for wear or damage.
5. Replace Worn Parts
   • Install new X-ring seals, lubricating them with a drop of shock oil
   • If necessary, replace the shock shaft (#1664T for front shocks on 1/10 scale models)
6. Reassemble the Shock
   • Install new e-clips on the shock shaft and reattach the piston
   • Carefully reinstall the shock shaft into the body
7. Refill with Oil
   • Fill the shock body with silicone shock oil
   • Slowly cycle the shaft to remove air bubbles
8. Seal the Shock
   • Install the bladder and shock cap.
   • Tighten the cap, allowing excess oil to escape.
9. Reattach Components
   • Reinstall the spring, retainers, and rod end.
10. Reinstall on Vehicle
    • Mount the rebuilt shocks back onto your RC vehicle.

Pro Tips

• Always use pure silicone shock oil for consistent performance.
• Consider experimenting with different oil weights to fine-tune your suspension.
• Regularly inspect your shocks for signs of wear or leakage.

By following these steps, you’ll ensure your Traxxas Ultra Shocks provide optimal performance and longevity for your RC vehicle. Remember to perform this maintenance regularly, especially after heavy use or when you notice decreased performance.

Shock Oil

When rebuilding Traxxas Ultra Shocks, using the right shock oil is crucial for the optimal performance and longevity of your RC vehicle’s suspension system. Shock oil plays a vital role in controlling the movement of the suspension arms and providing proper damping.

Importance of Shock Oil

1. Damping Control: Shock oil determines how quickly the shock absorbers rebound after compression, allowing you to fine-tune your RC car’s handling characteristics.
2. Terrain Adaptation: Different shock oil weights are suitable for various terrains. Lighter oils (10wt to 35wt) work well for quick bumps and weight transfer. Heavier oils (40wt to 60wt) provide better stability at higher speeds and can take bigger jumps.
3. Vehicle Weight Compensation: Heavier RC vehicles may benefit from slightly thicker shock oils to maintain stability.
4. Performance Customization: By adjusting shock oil weight, you can tailor your RC car’s performance to match your driving style and the specific challenges of your preferred tracks.

Choosing the Right Shock Oil

For Traxxas Ultra Shocks, consider the following:

1. Weight Recommendation: 30wt (350cst) is a good place to start. However, for a heavier vehicle like Stampede 4×4, 30wt might be too light. also, higher speeds will require thicker oil
2. Experimentation: Many RC enthusiasts find success with oils in the 40wt to 50wt range best for bashing because of the higher impacts on the suspension components.
3. Brand Options: While Traxxas oil is an option, some users prefer other brands like Losi & Associated, which offer a wider range of weights and larger quantities

Needle Nose Pliers

When rebuilding Traxxas Ultra Shocks, needle nose pliers are an essential tool for handling the rod ends on the shock shaft. These pliers offer precision and control during the disassembly and reassembly process.

Importance of Needle Nose Pliers

1. Rod End Removal: To remove the rod end, grip the shock shaft with shock shaft pliers and use the needle nose pliers to unthread the rod end
2. Rod End Installation: When reinstalling the rod end, needle nose pliers offer the necessary leverage to thread it back onto the shock shaft securely.
3. Preventing Damage: The slim profile of needle nose pliers reduces the risk of burring up the shock shaft, which can damage the O-rings and/or X-rings

Traxxas Hardened Shock Shafts

When rebuilding Traxxas Ultra Shocks, upgrading to Traxxas Hardened shock shafts is a must-have upgrade that can significantly enhance the durability and performance of your RC vehicle’s suspension system.

Benefits of Traxxas Hardened Shock Shafts

1. Increased Strength: The hardened steel construction makes these shafts extra strong, preventing bending during intense use.
2. Titanium Nitride Coating: This special coating provides a micro-polished finish, reducing friction and improving overall shock performance.
3. Longer Lifespan: The TiN coating resists scratching, leading to a much longer shaft life compared to standard shocks.
4. Smoother Operation: The micro-polished finish reduces stiction, resulting in smoother suspension movement.