Shock O-Rings: Black vs. Clear

Shock O-Rings: Black vs. Clear

We frequently receive questions about the differences between the black and clear O-rings included with our cars.

First to clarify, here are which cars come with each type of O-ring: the Midget, Sprint, and EDM models come equipped with black O-rings, while our other vehicles—such as the Dirt Late Model, Asphalt Late Model, Asphalt Modified, Super Modified, Dirt Modified, and Dirt Street Stock—feature clear O-rings.

The 1RC Racing 1/18 shocks are friction shocks; therefore, the O-rings and O-ring lube create the dampening. On larger-scale vehicles, oil viscosity and the shock piston are used to control the damping.

The black O-rings provide a greater dampened feel to the shocks, whereas the clear O-rings offer a less dampened sensation. This dampening effect helps prevent the shocks from feeling overly "springy." On high-traction tracks where you want the car to transfer weight more slowly, it may be beneficial to run the black o-rings. Conversely, on lower traction tracks, you might consider running without O-rings in the rear to encourage quicker weight transfer to the rear, which can enhance traction.