Best Lubricants for RC Shocks to Improve Jump Performance

When it comes to RC cars, handling jumps smoothly can make a huge difference in performance and enjoyment. One key factor that often gets overlooked is the type of lubricant used in the shocks. The right lubricant can improve shock absorption, reduce wear, and provide better control during landings. This post explores the best lubricants for RC shocks, helping you choose the right one to handle jumps better and keep your RC car running smoothly.

Close-up of RC shock absorber with lubricant

Why Lubrication Matters in RC Shocks

RC shocks absorb the impact when your car lands after a jump. If the shocks are not properly lubricated, they can become stiff or sluggish, leading to poor handling and potential damage. Lubricants reduce friction between the shock components, allowing smoother movement and better shock absorption.

Using the right lubricant also helps protect the seals and internal parts from wear and corrosion. This extends the life of your shocks and maintains consistent performance over time.

Types of Lubricants for RC Shocks

There are several types of lubricants commonly used in RC shocks. Each has its own properties that affect how your shocks perform during jumps.

Silicone Shock Oil

Silicone shock oil is the most popular choice for RC shocks. It comes in different viscosities, usually measured in weight (e.g., 30wt, 50wt, 100wt). The higher the weight, the thicker the oil.

• Lightweight oils (20-30wt): Provide faster shock response and softer damping. Ideal for smooth tracks and smaller jumps.

• Medium oils (40-60wt): Offer a balance between speed and control. Suitable for general use and moderate jumps.

• Heavy oils (80-100wt+): Slow down shock movement for better control on big jumps and rough terrain.

  
  

Choosing the right viscosity depends on your driving style and the type of jumps you encounter. Thicker oil slows the shock rebound, preventing the car from bouncing too much after landing.

Grease-Based Lubricants

Some RC enthusiasts use grease inside shocks to improve sealing and reduce friction. Grease is thicker than oil and stays in place longer, but it can make shocks feel stiffer.

• Pros: Better seal protection, longer-lasting lubrication.

• Cons: Can reduce shock responsiveness, not ideal for all setups.

  
  

Grease works well in combination with shock oil, especially around seals and moving parts.

Synthetic Shock Fluids

Synthetic shock fluids are designed to offer consistent performance across a wide temperature range. They often provide better lubrication and less foaming compared to standard silicone oils.

• Benefits: Stable viscosity, improved shock damping, longer-lasting.

• Use case: Competitive RC racing or extreme jump conditions.

  
  

How to Choose the Right Lubricant for Your RC Shocks

Selecting the best lubricant depends on several factors:

• Jump size and frequency: Bigger jumps require thicker oils to absorb impact better.

• Track conditions: Rough or bumpy tracks benefit from heavier oils or synthetic fluids.

• Driving style: Aggressive drivers may prefer heavier oils for control, while casual drivers might choose lighter oils for smoother handling.

• Shock design: Some shocks are designed to work best with specific lubricants, so check your manufacturer’s recommendations.

  
  

Practical Tips

• Start with a medium viscosity oil (around 40-50wt) if you’re unsure.

• Test different viscosities to find the best balance between shock absorption and responsiveness.

• Replace shock oil regularly, especially after heavy use or exposure to dirt and water.

• Clean shocks thoroughly before applying new lubricant to avoid contamination.

  
  

RC car mid-jump showing shock absorbers in action

Maintaining Your RC Shocks for Better Jump Performance

Lubricant choice is only part of the equation. Proper maintenance ensures your shocks perform well over time.

• Regular cleaning: Dirt and debris can damage seals and reduce lubrication effectiveness.

• Inspect seals: Replace worn or cracked seals to prevent oil leaks.

• Check shock shafts: Bent or scratched shafts cause friction and reduce shock efficiency.

• Bleed shocks properly: Remove air bubbles when filling shocks with oil to maintain consistent damping.

  
  

Examples of Popular Shock Oils

• Traxxas 50wt Silicone Shock Oil: A reliable choice for many hobbyists, offering smooth damping for moderate jumps.

• Team Associated 100wt Shock Oil: Ideal for large jumps and rough terrain, providing strong shock absorption.

• Pro-Line Synthetic Shock Fluid: Offers stable performance in varying temperatures, great for competitive use.

  
  

Final Thoughts on Lubricants for RC Shocks

Choosing the right lubricant for your RC shocks can dramatically improve how your car handles jumps. Thicker oils provide better control on big landings, while lighter oils keep shocks responsive on smaller jumps. Synthetic fluids offer consistent performance for serious racers.