FG Modellsport On-Road Shock Absorber Technology
A properly adjusted shock absorber is essential for the handling, grip and stability of your FG Modellsport On-Road model. At TPS Racing, we combine over 32 years of racing experience with extensive technical knowledge of FG Modellsport. Whether you are looking for complete shock absorber sets, genuine spare parts, springs, shock oil or premium tuning parts, TPS Racing offers an extensive range of products available directly from stock.
TPS Racing – FG Modellsport Specialists
From fine-tuning shock absorber damping to improving mechanical grip, we understand FG On-Road technology through hands-on racing experience. Our experience on the track helps you choose the right shock absorbers, springs and tuning parts for your model.
Explore Our Complete FG Shock Absorber Range
Click on your preferred product category to explore the available spare parts and tuning options.
Complete Shock Absorber Sets
Complete FG Modellsport On-Road shock absorber sets for replacement, maintenance or upgrading your suspension. Explore the available versions for your FG model.
VIEW SHOCK ABSORBER SETSShock Absorber Spare Parts
Replacement parts for repairing and rebuilding FG shock absorbers, including piston rods, seals, shock bodies, pistons and other components for the correct shock absorber version.
VIEW SPARE PARTSShock Absorber Tuning Parts
Improve the setup options of your FG On-Road model with premium tuning components. Designed for precise adjustment, durability and improved performance.
VIEW TUNING PARTSShock Absorber Springs
Discover different spring rates to adjust suspension performance and chassis balance. Choose the right springs based on track conditions, tyres and the weight of your FG model.
VIEW SHOCK SPRINGSSilicone Shock Absorber Oil
Choosing the correct silicone shock oil is essential for consistent hydraulic damping. Discover different viscosities for tuning and maintaining your FG On-Road shock absorbers.
VIEW SHOCK OILThe Four Most Important Setup Factors
Optimal shock absorber performance depends on the correct combination of several technical factors.
1. Shock Absorber Oil
The viscosity of the silicone oil, together with the piston design, determines the hydraulic resistance during compression and rebound.
2. Spring Rate
The spring supports the chassis and influences suspension compression, mechanical grip and the balance between the front and rear axles.
3. Ride Height
Correct ride height provides sufficient suspension travel and helps keep the car stable and predictable.
4. Piston and Oil Flow
The diameter and number of flow holes in the piston affect the resistance generated as the oil passes through during suspension movement.
FG On-Road Shock Absorbers – Technical Guide
Open the chapters below for detailed information about shock absorber operation and setup.
1. How Does an FG On-Road Shock Absorber Work?
A hydraulic shock absorber consists of a shock body, piston rod, piston, seals and silicone shock oil. A coil spring is mounted around the outside of the shock absorber.
When a wheel travels over an uneven surface, the piston moves through the oil. The oil flows through the openings in the piston, creating hydraulic resistance.
- The spring supports the weight of the chassis.
- The shock oil controls the speed of suspension movement.
- The piston helps determine the oil flow rate.
- Spring preload influences the static position of the suspension.
The spring and shock absorber perform different functions. A stiffer spring cannot replace correctly adjusted hydraulic damping.
2. Shock Oil and Viscosity
The viscosity of the shock absorber oil has a major influence on how quickly the shock absorber can move.
Thinner Shock Oil
Thinner oil creates less hydraulic resistance. The suspension can react more quickly to small surface irregularities. This can be beneficial on bumpy asphalt and low-grip tracks.
Thicker Shock Oil
Thicker oil creates more resistance and slows suspension movement. This can help during rapid changes of direction, but excessively thick oil may reduce mechanical grip.
The same oil can behave differently in different shock absorbers. The piston holes also have a major influence on hydraulic resistance. Do not directly compare WT ratings between different manufacturers without checking their specifications.
3. Shock Absorber Springs and Spring Rates
The spring rate determines how strongly the suspension resists compression. The correct choice depends on vehicle weight, tyres, grip levels and track characteristics.
Softer Springs
A softer spring allows the suspension to compress further under the same load. This can help the tyres maintain contact with an uneven track surface.
Stiffer Springs
A stiffer spring limits suspension compression and may offer advantages on smooth, high-grip asphalt with rapid changes of direction.
Changes to the front suspension also influence the balance of the rear axle. Always evaluate the handling of the entire car.
4. Ride Height and Spring Preload
Ride height affects the centre of gravity and determines how much room the suspension has for compression and rebound.
A lower ride height can reduce chassis movement, but the car must retain sufficient suspension travel. The chassis should not constantly touch the ground or hit the suspension end stops.
Spring preload can be adjusted using adjustable spring retainers.
Increasing spring preload does not change the spring rate of a linear coil spring. Always check the available compression and rebound travel.
5. Shock Absorber Setup for Different Tracks
There is no universal shock absorber setup that works perfectly on every track. The correct settings depend on grip levels, asphalt quality, tyres and driving style.
| Track Conditions | Possible Setup Direction |
|---|---|
| Smooth, high-grip asphalt | More support against body roll and rapid chassis movements. |
| Bumpy asphalt | More compliant suspension with sufficient available travel. |
| Low grip | Greater focus on mechanical grip and controlled weight transfer. |
| Fast corners | Stable damping and controlled chassis movements. |
| Many tight corners | Good steering response and sufficient traction when accelerating out of corners. |
Change only one setting at a time. Then drive several laps under comparable conditions to evaluate the difference.
6. Filling and Bleeding Shock Absorbers
Correct filling is essential for consistent shock absorber performance. Air bubbles in the oil can make damping behaviour unpredictable.
- Inspect the shock body and piston rod for damage.
- Check the seals for wear and oil leakage.
- Fill the shock absorber with the correct silicone shock oil.
- Move the piston rod slowly to release trapped air.
- Allow any remaining air bubbles to escape from the oil.
- Close the shock absorber according to the procedure for that particular model.
- Check the full stroke for smooth and consistent movement.
The exact oil fill level and closing procedure may vary between FG shock absorber types. Account for the volume displaced by the piston rod and avoid hydraulic lock.
7. Maintenance and Wear Inspection
Regular maintenance ensures consistent shock absorber performance during practice sessions and races.
- Inspect piston rods for bending and damage.
- Check seals for oil leakage.
- Inspect shock oil for contamination and air bubbles.
- Check that the pistons move smoothly.
- Inspect mounting points and ball joints.
- Use the same oil viscosity and piston configuration on the left and right sides of the same axle.
Whenever possible, service both shock absorbers on the same axle at the same time. This helps maintain consistent damping performance on both sides.
8. Common Shock Absorber Setup Mistakes
A common mistake is trying to solve grip problems immediately by fitting softer springs.
However, grip problems can also be caused by incorrect shock oil, ride height, tyres or suspension geometry.
Another common mistake is trying to compensate for springs that are too soft by using thicker shock oil. This only works to a limited extent because springs and hydraulic damping perform different functions.
First check the mechanical condition of the suspension. Then adjust the settings step by step and compare the results on the track.
TPS Racing – Finding the Right Shock Absorber Setup
The best FG Modellsport On-Road shock absorber setup does not automatically come from using the thickest oil or the stiffest springs. The right combination of spring rate, hydraulic damping, ride height and suspension setup creates a predictable car, improved control and consistent lap times. With careful maintenance and step-by-step adjustments, you can get the maximum performance from your FG On-Road model.