Have you ever wondered why your RC car doesn’t handle as smoothly as it used to? Maybe the jumps are less impressive, or it seems to bounce around more than usual. The answer might lie in the shocks. RC car shocks, just like the ones in your car, are responsible for absorbing bumps and keeping your car stable. And just like your car, they can wear out and need maintenance or replacement. One common question in the RC car community is, “What oil should I use for my 85 million RC car shocks?” This is where the concept of oil viscosity comes into play.
What is 85 Million Oil?
85 million oil is a common type of shock oil used in RC cars. The “85 million” refers to the viscosity of the oil, which is a measure of its resistance to flow. The higher the viscosity, the thicker the oil, and the more resistance it provides to the shock piston. This affects how the shock performs, influencing its dampening and overall handling.
Why is Viscosity Important?
Imagine a car suspension. When you hit a bump, the shock absorbers compress and expand, absorbing the impact. The viscosity of the shock oil determines how fast the shock can compress and expand, affecting how smoothly the car handles bumps.
85 Million Oil: The Sweet Spot?
So, why is 85 million oil so popular? It’s often considered a good balance for many RC car setups. It provides a balance between smooth handling and control. Using too thick of oil can lead to a very stiff and bouncy ride, while too thin of oil can lead to a loose and uncontrollable car.
RC Car Shocks and 85 Million Oil: A Comprehensive Guide
Understanding the Impact of Oil Viscosity
The right shock oil viscosity can dramatically affect your RC car’s performance.
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Thicker oil (higher viscosity): This results in a stiffer ride. The shocks compress and expand more slowly, improving stability but reducing the ability to absorb large bumps. This can be beneficial on tracks with lots of jumps and sharp turns.
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Thinner oil (lower viscosity): This creates a smoother ride. The shocks compress and expand more quickly, allowing the car to absorb large bumps more effectively. However, it can lead to less control in high-speed situations.
What Affects the Optimal Shock Oil Viscosity?
Several factors affect the optimal shock oil viscosity for your RC car:
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Track conditions: If you’re racing on a smooth, paved track, you might want to use thinner oil. On rough, bumpy tracks, thicker oil may be a better choice.
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Driving style: Aggressive driving styles often benefit from thicker oil, while a more relaxed approach might prefer thinner oil.
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RC car type: The type of RC car you’re driving also affects the optimal shock oil viscosity. Trucks and buggies often benefit from thicker oil due to their larger suspension travel, while smaller cars like on-road cars may prefer thinner oil for faster response times.
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Vehicle setup: Adjustments to your RC car’s suspension, like spring rates, can affect the optimal shock oil viscosity.
How to Choose the Right Oil for Your RC Car Shocks
Choosing the right oil is a matter of experimentation.
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Start with the manufacturer’s recommendations: The manufacturer of your RC car will likely have recommendations for the optimal shock oil viscosity for your model.
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Experiment with different viscosities: Try different oil viscosities to see what works best for your track and driving style.
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Adjust the oil based on your needs: If you find the car is too stiff or too loose, you can adjust the shock oil viscosity to suit your preferences.
Maintaining Your RC Car Shocks
Regular maintenance is crucial for keeping your RC car shocks in top condition.
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Clean your shocks: Dust, dirt, and debris can affect the performance of your RC car shocks. Regularly clean them to keep them working smoothly.
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Replace the shock oil: The oil in your RC car shocks degrades over time. Replace it regularly, especially if you’re using the car frequently.
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Check the shock seals: The seals on your RC car shocks can wear out over time, allowing oil to leak out. Inspect them regularly and replace them if necessary.
Tips for Selecting the Right Shock Oil
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Don’t be afraid to experiment: The best way to find the right oil is to try different viscosities.
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Consider your driving style: If you’re a more aggressive driver, you’ll likely want a thicker oil.
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Talk to other RC enthusiasts: Ask other RC drivers what they’re using and what works well for them.
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Document your results: Keep a record of the different oil viscosities you’ve tried and how they’ve affected your RC car’s performance. This will help you make more informed decisions in the future.
FAQs about RC Car Shocks and 85 Million Oil
Q: What are some good brands of shock oil?
A: Several reputable brands offer shock oil for RC cars. Some popular choices include:
- Team Associated
- Traxxas
- HPI Racing
Q: How often should I change the shock oil?
A: The frequency of shock oil changes depends on the frequency of use and the conditions the car is driven in. Generally, it’s recommended to change the oil every few months or after every 10-15 runs.
Q: What is the difference between 85 million oil and 50 million oil?
A: 85 million oil is thicker than 50 million oil. This means that 85 million oil will provide more resistance to the shock piston, resulting in a stiffer ride. 50 million oil will provide a smoother ride, but it may not offer as much control in high-speed situations.
Q: What is the best way to clean my RC car shocks?
A: The best way to clean your RC car shocks is to disassemble them and use a cleaning solution to remove any dirt, debris, or oil. A dedicated RC car shock cleaner is available, or you can use a mild dish soap and water.
Q: What happens if I use the wrong shock oil viscosity?
A: Using the wrong shock oil viscosity can negatively affect your RC car’s performance. It can lead to a very stiff or loose ride, which can make the car difficult to control.
Q: Can I mix different viscosities of shock oil?
A: Yes, you can mix different viscosities of shock oil to achieve a specific viscosity. However, it’s essential to use a precision scale to ensure you’re mixing the correct proportions.
Conclusion
Choosing the right shock oil viscosity is crucial for optimal performance in your RC car. 85 million oil is often a good starting point, offering a balance between smooth handling and control. Remember to experiment and find the best setup for your track and driving style.
Do you have any other questions about RC car shocks or 85 million oil? Leave a comment below, and we’ll do our best to answer your questions. We’re here to help you get the most out of your RC car!
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