Do you have a Traxxas Slash 4×4 RC truck? If you do, you already know how hard it is to control the short-course performance truck on bumpy ground.
Imagine you’re doing a race, and the truck is just all over the place and very hard to control because of the stiff springs. You’ll most likely lose the race. That’s why most RC enthusiasts would encourage you to buy shock absorbers for your Slash 4×4.
However, many types and brands of shocks are available for RC trucks. As the performance depends significantly on tuning the shocks, it is tough for unfamiliar RC owners to find the perfect shock for their purposes.
That’s why to your rescue, our researchers spent hours searching for the best shocks for Traxxas Slash 4×4 and made a list of the top five. Keep reading to learn more about them with a complete guide for 2022! But first-
[table id=13 /]
Comparison Table
| Product | Length | Material |
| Hobbypark Aluminum Shock Absorbers | 100 mm and 115 mm (Front and Back) | Aluminum |
| Traxxas Big Bore Shock Set | 90 mm and 100 mm (Front and Back) | Aluminum |
| Globact 4 PCS All Aluminum Shock Absorbers | 100 mm and 115 mm (Front and Back) | Aluminum |
| Hosim Front and Rear Shock Absorbers | 100 mm and 115 mm (Front and Back) | Aluminum Alloy |
| Hobbycrawler RC Damper Shock Absorbers | 100 mm and 110 mm (Front and Back) | Aluminum |
Top Five Shocks for Traxxas Slash 4×4
This section contains multiple shock absorber options for the Traxxas Slash 4×4 performance RC truck. However, not all of them might be suitable for you. So, please read the description properly and find one that matches your requirements.
1. Hobbypark Aluminum Shocks for Traxxas Slash 4×4
If you are looking for a beefier shock absorber than your stock shocks from Traxxas, look no more! Hobbypark has come up with the perfect product for you. These Aluminum shocks are the most heavy-duty aftermarket shocks available for the Traxxas Slash 4×4.
These shocks from Hobbypark are replacement parts for stock model part #5862. So, the shocks will fit Traxxas Slash 4×4, Stampede 4×4, Rustler VXL 4×4, Hoss 4×4 VXL, Rally 4×4, etc. So, if you have either of these RC vehicles, this should fit you without causing any problems.
However, performance is the main thing to look for when buying parts for RC vehicles. Most stock parts work pretty well, but when everyone uses beefier, more vital components, you will fall behind if you don’t use aftermarket parts.
So, if you are looking to upgrade your Slash 4×4 to even more of a high-performing beast, having Hobbypark shock absorbers should be the first thing on your list of things to do!
Most Likeable Features
Hobbypark shocks are designed keeping performance in mind. Heavy-duty Aluminum material, with CNC machined manufacturing, the shocks offer precision with high performance. The beefier design performs well for higher jumps and smooth bumps!
Probable Drawbacks
The shocks require more oil than usual Traxxas dampers. Also, some users complained they leak oil.
Key Features
• High performance for an affordable price
• Higher pre-load adjustment thread
• CNC-machined for precision
• It comes with all necessary screws
2. Traxxas Big Bore Shocks for Traxxas Slash 4×4
Only after the first aftermarket shock absorbers; do we have to include an OEM damper set for those who only want to use OEM parts on their vehicles. If you want to keep your vehicle just as it was when you bought it, these are the best shocks for Traxxas Slash 4×4 VXL for you.
As you’re already using Traxxas vehicles, you wouldn’t question the quality of Traxxas products, would you? They provide excellent OEM parts for all RC vehicles, and the replacement parts are just as good.
However, if you want to improve your performance than the stock Slash, you can tune these big bore shocks to your liking. These shocks come fully assembled and with suitable shock oil. You can also adjust the shock springs for better acceleration and smoothness.
In the end, if the quality is your first concern, Traxxas shock absorbers offer the highest quality possible. These are made of PTFE coated T6 Aluminum, known for their durability and light-weight. So, those are the feature that you should expect from these shocks.
Most Likeable Features
Traxxas replacement shocks for model part #5862 are hard anodized for higher durability. So, these shocks will absorb the biggest jumps ever! Also, the shafts inside the dampers are Titanium-Nitride coated for nearly frictionless operation!
Probable Drawbacks
These are OEM shocks; they cost a bit more than aftermarket parts of other brands.
Key Features
• PTFE Coated T6 Aluminum material
• Genuine Traxxas replacement parts
• Comes fully assembled and with shock oil
• Titanium-Nitride Coated Shafts for extreme durability
3. Globact Front and Rear Shocks for Traxxas Slash 4×4
Next up are the Globact Aluminum Front & Rear RC Shocks for your RC truck. These shocks are compatible with Traxxas Slash 4×4, Stampede VXL 4×4, and Rustler VXL 4×4. However, beware that the shocks are incompatible with Slash 2WD, Stampede 2WD, etc.
Now let’s start with the features. This shock absorber contains lubricating shock oil. As a result, you won’t need to grease them before using them. Also, the body material is total aluminum and will offer versatility with performance!
However, aesthetics is one of the essential aspects for RC enthusiasts. Some RC owners place looks over performance! So, having the perfect color option is an excellent upside for aftermarket parts.
Globact kept this in mind when designing these shocks. Because they offer three different color options for the shocks. One is Red, and the others are Blue and Dark Cream. You can therefore choose the aesthetics of your trucks, even when upgrading parts!
Most Likeable Features
Globact shocks provide the best bump and jump control for your Traxxas model. Such high performance is provided by assembling wider TiN shafts and springs, which are CNC machined for accuracy.
Probable Drawbacks
Some users complained that the shocks leak quickly, sometimes even before installation.
Key Features
• Lightweight Aluminum material for high performance
• CNC machined for precision and accuracy
• Come with shock oil in them
• Great value for the price
4. Hosim 4 PCS Aluminum Alloy Shocks for Traxxas Slash 4×4
If you’re looking for the best of anything, wouldn’t your instead look for something specialized for the purpose? If so, then Hosim dampers for Traxxas Slash 4×4 would be the best shocks for Traxxas Slash 4×4 for you!
Now you might ask why! Well, there are a few reasons. First of all, comes the build quality. Hosim has been providing RC vehicle parts with outstanding performance records for years. So, their build quality is, without question, up to the mark.
Secondly, the specially treated Aluminum material is perfect for RC vehicle dampers. Also, the metal is cut according to the shape of the Traxxas Slash 4×4 model. So, the dampers will fit your vehicle perfectly if you have a Traxxas Slash 4×4.
However, the added performance boost these shocks provide alone can be game-changing for you. Hosim shocks provide stiff springs, better handling, acceleration, and smooth jump kinetic absorption. So, these are definitely on the list for the top five.
Most Likeable Features
The body is made of special Aluminum alloy material. This provides higher durability with a lightweight. So, your RC truck will be able to run faster, take a lot of beatings, and overall perform better if you buy Hosim shock absorbers for Traxxas Slash 4×4.
Probable Drawbacks
Hosim doesn’t provide any replacement parts for the shocks. So, if you break yours, you have to buy another. However, for the price, can you complain?
Key Features
• Comes with little filling oil for safety
• Perfectly fits Traxxas Slash 4×4 4WD
• Perfect Upgrade replacement part for stock shocks
• Very affordable prices compared with other brands
5. Hobbycrawler RC shocks for Traxxas Slash 4×4
We all know how vital tuning is for RC trucks, don’t we? So, when buying aftermarket parts for your RC vehicles, you should always keep tuning. Why buy something that you can’t customize to your liking?
That’s the philosophy of Hobbycrawler. They make these shock absorbers to be as customizable as possible. The dampers have adjustable tension, and you can put your choice of oil in the shocks.
Also, these are made of premium quality Aluminum which is perfect for the job because of its lightweight and durability. In fact, Aluminum is the go-to material for RC parts! However, Hobbycrawler parts are crafted with precision, and that sets them apart from other cheap brands.
The shocks fit really well with Traxxas Slash 4×4 VXL RC trucks. You will receive four shocks per packaging: 2 front shock absorbers and two rear shock absorbers. The package also includes all the hardware necessary for installation.
Most Likeable Features
Hobbycrawler RC shocks are remarkable for their price. They are excellent for big jumps, help run the truck smoothly, and absorb any type of pressure on the RC truck. So, these should work very well if you’re looking for Traxxas Slash 4×4 shocks.
Probable Drawbacks
The shocks come with some filling oil. However, you need to change the oil to 50W shock or higher for better performance.
Key Features
• Affordable but high-performing upgrades
• Smooth acceleration, turns, and shock absorption
• Fits perfectly with Traxxas Slash 4×4
• Costs significantly less than Traxxas OEM shocks
Things to Consider Before Buying Shocks for Traxxas Slash 4×4
Are all these features too overwhelming for you? Well, we can’t blame you. There is so much depth in the RC vehicle parts community that it can quickly get very confusing. However, there are some tricks that you can follow before buying RC parts.
Although we can’t talk about all types of RC parts, in this segment, we will discuss some things you should consider before purchasing shock absorbers for your RC truck. Think of this as a buying guide to help you glide through your purchase!
When searching for the best shock upgrade for Traxxas Slash 4×4, you must consider the material, shaft stiffness, filling oil, aesthetics, Pre-assembled Springs, etc. Below we will talk briefly about all of them. Check out the most essential Review for Spark Plugs for Pontiac Grand Prix.
Build Material
This should be the first thing to consider because the material will determine the quality of the shocks. Usually, shock absorbers are made with Aluminum. Aluminum is a durable but lightweight metal.
So, using Aluminum for RC parts is very common. However, some cheap shock absorbers are made of plastic. Plastic dampers do not last long, and the performance is usually worse than Aluminum shocks.
So, try to buy shocks made of lightweight metal like Aluminum. Make sure you also check our guide for Sounding Exhaust for Avalanche.
Damping Ability
The ability of the shock absorber to dampen the vibration is known as the damping effect. The shocks must absorb the vibration completely to prevent your RC vehicle from flipping over when making a big jump.
So, you want shocks with high damping ability, so your truck doesn’t flip over easily.
Filling Oil
Usually, most good shocks will come with some type of filling oil in them. These are somewhat filled to keep the shocks from damage while shipping. However, the filling oils provided usually aren’t good enough or high-performing.
So, you need to change the oil yourself. For Traxxas Slash 4×4, you need at least 50W oil or higher. However, if you don’t feel like you need to do the extra work, you may use the manufacturer-provided oil. But keep in mind that good oil will provide better performance.
Aesthetics
The looks and feel of the truck are significant for RC enthusiasts, especially in the RC truck community. The Traxxas Slash 4×4 is a gorgeous model. So, you do not want some funny-looking shocks for your trucks.
So, try to find the color and design of the shocks that match and suit your vehicle’s aesthetic styling.
Shaft Stiffness
The rigidity of the shafts is another factor determining if your damper is prepared for use on the road. This will generally indicate how much strain it can withstand from road shocks.
So, try to choose those that provide a lot of rigidity. They resist breaking down under intense pressure and are more difficult to bend. The drawback is that they will weigh much more.
They may therefore slow down your remote-control cars. Nevertheless, a stiffer shaft is preferable for your shock absorbers. So, try to balance weight, stiffness, and performance.
Pre-assembled Springs
The last tip from us is to make sure the springs are pre-assembled. The shock absorbers often arrive with springs already put together. But some cheap brands won’t pre-assemble the springs to cut costs.
So, try to buy from brands that offer already assembled springs. Although this is a fairly easy task, why bother doing extra work?
These are some things to follow when buying shocks for Traxxas Slash 4×4. If you follow these guidelines, you will surely find the perfect one for your choice.
What is the Best Shock Brand for Traxxas Slash 4×4?
In this article, we have listed some of the best brands for RC truck shock absorbers. However, there can’t be a single best shock brand because the term “Best” is subjective!
What works perfectly for you might not be suitable for someone else. So, this depends more on your preferences than on the brand. However, there are some categories even on the list of the top shocks we provided.
The Hobbypark shock absorbers are the best overall, Traxxas OEM shocks are the most reliable, Globact dampers are the best for the price, Hosim shock absorbers are the best performing, and last, but not least, Hobbycrawler shocks are the durable ones!
However, this is a broad generalization on our part! Because all of these brands offer the best of the best performance. We made this list in such a way that whichever you choose, you will not be disappointed with the arrangement!
How to Change Traxxas Slash 4×4 Shock Towers?
When buying Traxxas Slash 4×4 shock towers, this is something that comes to everyone’s mind. Because most of us have never changed the shock towers.
However, this is a relatively straightforward process; we will describe it below. Although different branded shock towers might differ slightly, you can still follow the guidelines below to change the shock towers.
The first step is to remove the top of the shocks from the tower. You will see the shocks are attached with some screws. Take your screwdriver and unscrew it.
After the two shocks are off the tower, it’s a good idea to use a wheel to prop up the truck. Just put a wheel under the middle of the car. Then, take out the two middle screws from the central mounting platform.
Now, you will have to flip the truck over and remove the two screws on the middle of the mounting platform. Hold the front end of the truck and flip the truck over again. Again remove the four supporting screws on the front of the truck.
After all the screws are removed, the shock towers should be free, and you can remove the body mounts now. Then, you will see two screws on the body mount. Remove those screws, and the body mount is no longer attached to your shock towers.
Now take the Aluminum shock towers that come with the shocks and attach them to the body mount with the last two screws. Then, line the shock tower up with the bulkhead holes of the truck.
Screw the shock tower properly with the bulkhead. You will find supplied M4 Phillips screws with most shock absorbers. Now reposition the bulkhead and the shock tower back onto the truck. The skid plate mount and the bulkhead mounts should line up.
Now flip the truck over, line up the screw holes, and re-screw the truck body with the mounts. Now check if the steering turns appropriately and re-screw all the removed screws when they do.
Lastly, get your shock bushings and screws supplied with the shock towers, mount your shock absorbers to the desired holes, and screw and tighten correctly.
This process applies to most shock towers for Traxxas Slash 4×4. So, try to follow the process hand to hand. However, if you face any problems while mounting the shock tower, the perfect tutorial is just a youtube search away!
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What shock oil should I use?
RC car shocks usually use silicon oil. These silicon-based oils are known for their high lubrication and low friction for the springs. However, for Traxxas Slash 4×4, you will need at least 50W shock oil.
2. Can motor oil be used on the shocks?
Yes! Many people use motor oil when shock oils aren’t available. However, they do not provide optimum performance as they are not made for shocks.
3. What size shocks are on the Traxxas Slash?
The Traxxas Slash trucks fit 100mm Big bore shocks. You can fit slightly bigger shocks as well. Some brands offer 115mm shocks for Traxxas Slash 4×4.
4. What parts are easy to break on the Traxxas Slash?
The RPM a-arms and rear hubs are most likely to break while bashing the Traxxas Slash. Also, try to have some extra shock caps and maybe some driveshafts.
5. How fast can a Traxxas Slash 4×4 go?
If you install all the perfect parts and tune the parts properly along with the best shocks for Traxxas Slash 2WD, you will most likely see a whopping top speed of 60+ mph!
As the Traxxas Slash model is a high-performance RC truck, you can expect high speeds!
Final Words
We know it’s tough to find the perfect parts for your RC vehicles. However, the joy of tuning and bashing the trucks afterward outweigh everything else!
Although, as you read this far in the article, we hope to have helped you find the best shocks for Traxxas Slash 4×4 that suit your necessities. Follow the guidelines that we wrote for you and try to have fun!
Remember to build, break, fix, and repeat!
