New updated Shock rebuild kit

[Greg S]

OK,
it may be a dumb question but!!
Has anyone used the new VCS2 shock rebuild kits for the stock shocks, kit #31120
It has no instructions:tire:
Thanks Greg

[Doug Carter]

Yes, the upgrade works well. If you buy the Associated version, the instructions are there. They work just like any other bladder-type import shock on the market (Tamiya, Xray, Corally, HPI, etc.)

You must remove all old internal o-rings and doughnuts that are pressed inside each shock. Use the original white tool that pressed them in to remove them. I prefer to not use the orange O-rings in any of my shocks, so this is a good time to install the blue synthetic MIP rings in your shocks. They will not get attacked by the silicone shock oils like the orange silicone rings, and they don't swell.

You can download the Associated VCS2 insert and cap upgrade instructions here (http://aedownloads.com/downloads/instructions/31123_vcs2.bladder.pdf) as a PDF file.

My best tip is to fill the shock up with oil, work out the air with a few slow strokes of the piston, and top it off until it's about 1/16" from the top edge. Drop the bladder into the shock so that it sits on the edge of the shock body. With a small tool like a screwdriver or allen wrench, I give the center of the bladder a little poke in the center to expel any excess oil. You kind of "burp" the bladder. The bladder should sit flush and flat on the edge of the shock, with no air underneath it. If you didn't get any oil pushed out with your "burp", you may have not filled it up enough. Try again. If you work slow, you can just wipe away any excess on the edge with your fingertip. Drop your blue foam into the center of the bladder, and screw on your cap, with the mounting flange inside the cap ring.

The only thing a bit confusing are the blue foam doughnuts they include. Use them between the bladder and cap to generate rebound in your shocks. I prefer to use the center of the donut without the outer ring, as it sits in the cap perfectly. You can get different rebound with varied inserts behind the bladder. You won't get any rebound without them installed.


They are nicer and easier than the original shocks to build, but the $15 for the VCS2 combined with the $35 price tag of the stock shocks without any springs, I don't know if these shocks are $50 good. A set of Tamiya TRF shocks with some longer shock rods would be far better shocks, and cheaper, too. Personally, I didn't have any problems with the old shocks with the MIP o-rings in them. If you don't have any problems with the original Associated TC shock, upgrade to the blue o-rings and be done with it.



Hope this helps,


doug

[Greg S]

Thanks Doug,
I was confused about the blue foam!
I was told this was the fix for the stock tc3 shocks
worth a try for 5 bucks
i'll have to look at the tamiya shocks

[Doug Carter]

For $5 its definitely worth it. The AE kits go for $15 with the new caps, bladders, and insert bushings. Not worth $15 plus shipping IMO.



d

[Stetler17]

Greg,

I think you have the VCS2 rebuild kit confused with the VCS2 upgrade kit. You need the upgrade kit for $15 first, which includes different caps also.

I have seen some guys using the bladders with stock caps, but I can't tell you how well, if it all, it works.

[Greg S]

yes you are correct, i figured i would try with out the new 2 piece caps, Ofna use's the same set-up.
I got them built and they feel alot better than the old style shocks.
Worth a try

[Stetler17]

Cool

I tried it and couldn't keep the bladders in place. I know others who have claimed success.

Let us know how it works and if you find the secret to it.

Later

[DirtFords1]

Doug,Are these "blue" o-rings MIP parts? I looked around,didn't see them listed at MIP or tower.These still available or...:confused: Thanks

[John Binz]

Here you go


http://www2.towerhobbies.com/cgi-bin/wti0001p?&I=LXAX28&P=7

[DirtFords1]

Thanks John.............:confused: Senior moment LOL!!

[Rammer Jammer]

Will this upgrade work on the longer .89 B2/3/4 shock's need for the loose track kit. Thank's.