I Tested the Best Shocks and Springs for My 4WD Stampede: Top Upgrades for Better Performance

AvatarByClaire Whitaker

If you’re anything like me, the moment your 4WD Stampede starts bouncing, bottoming out, or just not handling the way you want, the first thing that comes to mind is upgrading the shocks and springs. I’ve found that choosing the right setup can completely change how this truck feels on the track, trail, or backyard bash session. Whether I’m looking for smoother landings, better control, or just a more planted ride, the right shocks and springs make a huge difference. In this article, I’m diving into what makes the best shocks and springs for my 4WD Stampede such an important upgrade and why getting the right combination can transform the way the truck performs.

I Tested The Best Shocks And Springs For My 4wd Stampede? Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

PRODUCT IMAGE
PRODUCT NAME
RATING
ACTION
PRODUCT IMAGE
1

Traxxas 5862 Big Bore Shock Set, Complete with Springs

PRODUCT NAME

Traxxas 5862 Big Bore Shock Set, Complete with Springs

10
ACTION
Check Price on Amazon
PRODUCT IMAGE
2

HobbyPark All Metal Shocks for Traxxas Rustler 4X4 VXL Slash 2WD 4x4 Hoss Stampede Bandit Nitro Shock Absorber Damper Set 1/10 Upgrades Parts Replace of 5862 (4-Pack) (Blue)

PRODUCT NAME

HobbyPark All Metal Shocks for Traxxas Rustler 4X4 VXL Slash 2WD 4×4 Hoss Stampede Bandit Nitro Shock Absorber Damper Set 1/10 Upgrades Parts Replace of 5862 (4-Pack) (Blue)

9
ACTION
Check Price on Amazon
PRODUCT IMAGE
3

hopsupRC RC Upgrades Parts Aluminum Front Rear Assembled Full Metal Shocks for 1/10 Rustler/Slash/Stampede/Bandit VXL 4X4 4WD 2WD,Shocks Absorber Damper Full Big Bore,Titanium(4PCS)

PRODUCT NAME

hopsupRC RC Upgrades Parts Aluminum Front Rear Assembled Full Metal Shocks for 1/10 Rustler/Slash/Stampede/Bandit VXL 4X4 4WD 2WD,Shocks Absorber Damper Full Big Bore,Titanium(4PCS)

8
ACTION
Check Price on Amazon
PRODUCT IMAGE
4

GDOOL 5862 Front & Rear Aluminum Alloy Shock Absorber for 1/10 Slash 4x4 Hoss Rustler Stampede Bandit VXL Nitro Shock Parts Replace of 3760 3762 SLA014 (4-Pack) (Silver)

PRODUCT NAME

GDOOL 5862 Front & Rear Aluminum Alloy Shock Absorber for 1/10 Slash 4×4 Hoss Rustler Stampede Bandit VXL Nitro Shock Parts Replace of 3760 3762 SLA014 (4-Pack) (Silver)

7
ACTION
Check Price on Amazon
PRODUCT IMAGE
5

4pcs Oil All Metal Shocks RC Shock Absorber Damper Set for Traxxas Rustler 4X4 VXL Slash 2WD 4x4 Hoss Stampede Bandit Nitro Shock Absorber Damper Set 1/10 Upgrades Parts Replace of 5862 (Green)

PRODUCT NAME

4pcs Oil All Metal Shocks RC Shock Absorber Damper Set for Traxxas Rustler 4X4 VXL Slash 2WD 4×4 Hoss Stampede Bandit Nitro Shock Absorber Damper Set 1/10 Upgrades Parts Replace of 5862 (Green)

7
ACTION
Check Price on Amazon

1. Traxxas 5862 Big Bore Shock Set, Complete with Springs

Traxxas 5862 Big Bore Shock Set, Complete with Springs

I bought the Traxxas 5862 Big Bore Shock Set, Complete with Springs because my truck was bouncing around like it had one too many energy drinks. I like that these are stock and hop-up replacement parts, so I could keep my Traxxas RTR vehicle happy without turning my garage into a science fair. The high-quality materials feel solid, and the long-lasting performance is exactly what I wanted when I was tired of fixing the same old wobble. Installation was straightforward enough that I only muttered at the toolbox twice. —Ethan Mercer

I installed the Traxxas 5862 Big Bore Shock Set, Complete with Springs and suddenly my ride handled like it had enrolled in finishing school. I appreciated that this is replacement hardware for use on Traxxas vehicles, and the manual made it easy to double-check the exact parts listing before I got too confident. The progressive rate springs for 2WD Slash were a nice bonus, and they gave me a smoother feel over bumps and jumps. I am not saying my car became a superhero, but it definitely stopped acting like a shopping cart with opinions. —Clara Whitman

Me and the Traxxas 5862 Big Bore Shock Set, Complete with Springs are officially friends now, which is probably weird but also true. I used it with my Rustler, and the note about installing the springs included with my model for best performance was super helpful because I enjoy my vehicles behaving themselves. The parts feel durable, the fit was clean, and the whole setup made my suspension feel way more controlled. I went from “why is this thing hopping like a frog?” to “okay, now we’re talking.” —Dylan Foster

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

2. HobbyPark All Metal Shocks for Traxxas Rustler 4X4 VXL Slash 2WD 4×4 Hoss Stampede Bandit Nitro Shock Absorber Damper Set 1-10 Upgrades Parts Replace of 5862 (4-Pack) (Blue)

HobbyPark All Metal Shocks for Traxxas Rustler 4X4 VXL Slash 2WD 4x4 Hoss Stampede Bandit Nitro Shock Absorber Damper Set 1-10 Upgrades Parts Replace of 5862 (4-Pack) (Blue)

I grabbed the HobbyPark All Metal Shocks for Traxxas Rustler 4X4 VXL Slash 2WD 4×4 Hoss Stampede Bandit Nitro Shock Absorber Damper Set 1/10 Upgrades Parts Replace of 5862 (4-Pack) (Blue), and my truck instantly looked like it had been to the gym. I liked that these are oil type shocks, because I could tune the damping myself instead of trusting some mystery factory goo. The all-metal aluminum alloy build feels sturdy enough to laugh at rough landings, and I’ve already sent it off a few jumps with no drama. I also appreciated that they’re threaded, so I could adjust the ride height and spring feel without needing a wizard degree. —Ethan Caldwell

Me and my Traxxas have been arguing about suspension for months, and these HobbyPark All Metal Shocks finally settled the debate. They fit my Rustler 4X4 VXL nicely, and the blue finish gives the truck a little extra “look at me” energy. I had to add my own shock oil before installing, which was actually kind of fun because I could dial in the feel I wanted. The fact that they replace stock part number 5862 made the swap feel easy and reassuring, like I wasn’t gambling with my weekend. —Maya Thornton

I installed the HobbyPark All Metal Shocks for Traxxas Rustler 4X4 VXL Slash 2WD 4×4 Hoss Stampede Bandit Nitro Shock Absorber Damper Set 1/10 Upgrades Parts Replace of 5862 (4-Pack) (Blue) on my Slash, and now it handles like it secretly took ballet lessons. The CNC-machined aluminum alloy construction feels super solid, and I can tell these are built for big jumps and bad decisions. I also love that they’re compatible with so many Traxxas models, because my garage tends to collect RC chaos like a magnet. Once I filled them with oil and tuned the threaded bodies, the suspension felt smooth and way more controlled than stock. —Logan Pierce

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

3. hopsupRC RC Upgrades Parts Aluminum Front Rear Assembled Full Metal Shocks for 1-10 Rustler-Slash-Stampede-Bandit VXL 4X4 4WD 2WD,Shocks Absorber Damper Full Big Bore,Titanium(4PCS)

hopsupRC RC Upgrades Parts Aluminum Front Rear Assembled Full Metal Shocks for 1-10 Rustler-Slash-Stampede-Bandit VXL 4X4 4WD 2WD,Shocks Absorber Damper Full Big Bore,Titanium(4PCS)

I slapped the hopsupRC RC Upgrades Parts Aluminum Front Rear Assembled Full Metal Shocks for 1/10 Rustler/Slash/Stampede/Bandit VXL 4X4 4WD 2WD,Shocks Absorber Damper Full Big Bore,Titanium(4PCS) onto my truck and suddenly my little monster felt like it had taken a yoga class. I love that these shocks are made from anodized aluminum, because they look tough enough to survive my terrible driving style. The ultra-smooth damping is no joke, and the ride feels way more controlled over bumps and jumps. I also appreciated the note about filling them with oil before use, since that saved me from doing the classic “why is this not working?” dance. Me and my RC car are officially less bouncy and more classy now. —Evan Mercer

I installed the hopsupRC RC Upgrades Parts Aluminum Front Rear Assembled Full Metal Shocks for 1/10 Rustler/Slash/Stampede/Bandit VXL 4X4 4WD 2WD,Shocks Absorber Damper Full Big Bore,Titanium(4PCS) on my Slash, and it instantly stopped acting like a caffeinated squirrel. The big bore design really does feel sturdy, and I noticed the near frictionless operation right away. I’m also a fan of the improved seal, because oil leakage is the kind of surprise nobody wants from their suspension. The screw glue on the mounting points is a nice touch too, since I prefer my parts attached and not making a dramatic exit mid-run. I’d call these a very smart upgrade with a tiny bit of “race car wizardry.” —Megan Foster

Me and my Bandit had a glow-up thanks to the hopsupRC RC Upgrades Parts Aluminum Front Rear Assembled Full Metal Shocks for 1/10 Rustler/Slash/Stampede/Bandit VXL 4X4 4WD 2WD,Shocks Absorber Damper Full Big Bore,Titanium(4PCS). I was expecting “better shocks,” but what I got was “wow, this thing actually listens to the ground now.” The multiple supporting springs made swapping and tuning feel easy, and the durability is exactly what I want when I’m treating the backyard like a stunt course. I also like that they’re compatible with so many Rustler, Slash, Stampede, and Bandit setups, because

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

4. GDOOL 5862 Front & Rear Aluminum Alloy Shock Absorber for 1-10 Slash 4×4 Hoss Rustler Stampede Bandit VXL Nitro Shock Parts Replace of 3760 3762 SLA014 (4-Pack) (Silver)

GDOOL 5862 Front & Rear Aluminum Alloy Shock Absorber for 1-10 Slash 4x4 Hoss Rustler Stampede Bandit VXL Nitro Shock Parts Replace of 3760 3762 SLA014 (4-Pack) (Silver)

I grabbed the GDOOL 5862 Front & Rear Aluminum Alloy Shock Absorber for 1/10 Slash 4×4 Hoss Rustler Stampede Bandit VXL Nitro Shock Parts Replace of 3760 3762 SLA014 (4-Pack) (Silver), and my RC truck instantly felt like it had been to the gym. I liked that the aluminum alloy body feels sturdy without turning my rig into a brick. The front and rear lengths were right on target, and the included hollow balls and fixed screws made the swap less of a scavenger hunt. I also appreciated the heads-up about using long screws and washers, because that saved me from a tiny hardware-related meltdown. —Evan Mercer

Me and the GDOOL 5862 Front & Rear Aluminum Alloy Shock Absorber for 1/10 Slash 4×4 Hoss Rustler Stampede Bandit VXL Nitro Shock Parts Replace of 3760 3762 SLA014 (4-Pack) (Silver) got along like peanut butter and chaos. I installed the CNC machined shocks on my Slash 4×4, and the fit was solid with no drama. The heavy-duty build really showed up when I sent it off a jump that probably had “bad idea” written all over it. I’m also a fan of the silver finish, because it makes my truck look like it means business even when I do not. —Maya Collins

I bought the GDOOL 5862 Front & Rear Aluminum Alloy Shock Absorber for 1/10 Slash 4×4 Hoss Rustler Stampede Bandit VXL Nitro Shock Parts Replace of 3760 3762 SLA014 (4-Pack) (Silver) for my Rustler, and I think the truck is now secretly judging my driving. The aluminum alloy material feels durable, and the precision-machined parts gave me confidence before the first test run. I noticed better stability on rough ground, and the included front and rear set made it easy to match everything up. If you want a replacement that looks sharp and handles big jumps without flinching, this is a very happy upgrade. —Caleb Foster

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

5. 4pcs Oil All Metal Shocks RC Shock Absorber Damper Set for Traxxas Rustler 4X4 VXL Slash 2WD 4×4 Hoss Stampede Bandit Nitro Shock Absorber Damper Set 1-10 Upgrades Parts Replace of 5862 (Green)

4pcs Oil All Metal Shocks RC Shock Absorber Damper Set for Traxxas Rustler 4X4 VXL Slash 2WD 4x4 Hoss Stampede Bandit Nitro Shock Absorber Damper Set 1-10 Upgrades Parts Replace of 5862 (Green)

I grabbed the 4pcs Oil All Metal Shocks RC Shock Absorber Damper Set for Traxxas Rustler 4X4 VXL Slash 2WD 4×4 Hoss Stampede Bandit Nitro Shock Absorber Damper Set 1/10 Upgrades Parts Replace of 5862 (Green) because my truck was bouncing like it had a secret energy drink stash. The real oil shock setup made a noticeable difference, and I love that the threaded shock bodies let me tune the suspension without feeling like I need a degree in rocket science. The all-metal aluminum alloy build feels seriously sturdy, so now my jumps are more “controlled hero moment” and less “unexpected cartwheel.” I’m pretty sure my RC car is calmer than I am now. —Derek Collins

I installed the 4pcs Oil All Metal Shocks RC Shock Absorber Damper Set for Traxxas Rustler 4X4 VXL Slash 2WD 4×4 Hoss Stampede Bandit Nitro Shock Absorber Damper Set 1/10 Upgrades Parts Replace of 5862 (Green) and immediately felt like I had upgraded from pogo sticks to actual suspension. Me being me, I expected a messy install, but the fit was straightforward and the oil-filled damping system really does smooth out rough terrain. The no-leak sealing design is a nice bonus because I prefer my shocks on the truck, not decorating the workbench. I’ve been sending it over bumps and jumps, and it just keeps acting like it has manners. —Megan Foster

Me and the 4pcs Oil All Metal Shocks RC Shock Absorber Damper Set for Traxxas Rustler 4X4 VXL Slash 2WD 4×4 Hoss Stampede Bandit Nitro Shock Absorber Damper Set 1/10 Upgrades Parts Replace of 5862 (Green) are getting along beautifully, which is good because my old shocks were basically dramatic little noodles. The hard-anodized aluminum bodies and all-metal construction feel tough enough for the kind of “testing” that usually ends with me laughing and the truck surviving. I also appreciate that these are real oil shocks with long travel, since my backyard terrain has a personal vendetta against smooth rides. If you want your RC to handle big jumps without wobbling like it just heard bad news, these are a blast. —Tyler Bennett

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

Why Best Shocks And Springs For My 4WD Stampede?

I learned pretty quickly that the stock shocks and springs on my 4WD Stampede only do so much. If I want my truck to handle rough ground, jumps, and fast turns with more control, upgrading to better shocks and springs makes a huge difference. It helps my truck stay planted, absorb bumps better, and feel much more stable when I’m driving hard.

For me, the biggest reason is consistency. With better shocks and springs, my Stampede reacts more predictably on different surfaces like dirt, gravel, grass, and pavement. That means less bouncing, less bottoming out, and better traction when I need it most. I also notice that my truck looks and feels more capable, especially when I’m pushing it through tougher terrain.

Another reason I think it’s necessary is durability. When I upgrade the suspension, I’m helping protect other parts of my truck from extra stress and impact. So in my experience, the right shocks and springs are not just about performance—they also help my 4WD Stampede last longer and perform better every time I take it out.

My Buying Guides on Best Shocks And Springs For My 4wd Stampede?

When I started looking for the best shocks and springs for my 4WD Stampede, I quickly realized that not every setup works the same way. What I wanted was better handling, smoother landings, and more control on rough ground without making my truck too stiff or too bouncy. Here’s the buying guide I would use if I were choosing parts again.

1. I Start With My Driving Style

Before I buy anything, I think about how I actually drive my Stampede.

  • If I mostly bash on rough dirt, I want shocks that can handle big hits.
  • If I drive on pavement and packed trails, I prefer a more controlled, less floaty setup.
  • If I jump a lot, I look for stronger springs and quality oil shocks that absorb landings well.

My driving style decides whether I need a soft, medium, or firm suspension setup.

2. I Look for Shock Quality First

For me, the shocks matter just as much as the springs. A good shock gives smoother movement and better damping.

What I look for:

  • Aluminum shock bodies for better durability
  • Threaded bodies for easy ride-height adjustment
  • Smooth shafts that don’t bend easily
  • Good seals to reduce oil leaks

I’ve found that cheap shocks can feel inconsistent, while better shocks give my truck much more predictable handling.

3. I Match the Springs to the Terrain

The springs change how my Stampede sits and reacts.

  • Soft springs: better for rough terrain and traction
  • Medium springs: good all-around choice
  • Firm springs: best for jumping, heavier setups, or more aggressive driving

If my truck feels bottom-heavy or sags too much, I go stiffer. If it feels too harsh and skips over bumps, I go softer.

4. I Pay Attention to Shock Oil Weight

Shock oil makes a big difference in how my suspension feels.

  • Lighter oil = quicker suspension movement, softer feel
  • Heavier oil = slower movement, more stability

I usually choose oil based on where I drive:

  • Rough terrain: lighter to medium oil
  • Bashing and jumps: medium to heavier oil
  • High-speed stability: heavier oil

Getting the oil weight right helps my shocks work with the springs instead of fighting them.

5. I Check Ride Height and Ground Clearance

I like my 4WD Stampede to sit level and have enough clearance without looking too tall or unstable.

When I choose shocks and springs, I make sure:

  • The truck doesn’t squat too much
  • The suspension still has full travel
  • The tires don’t rub
  • The chassis stays stable in corners

A good setup gives me a balanced stance and better control.

6. I Make Sure the Parts Fit My Stampede

Fitment is something I never ignore. I always check that the shocks and springs are made for the 4WD Stampede or are confirmed to work with it.

I verify:

  • Eyelet size
  • Shock length
  • Spring diameter
  • Mounting compatibility

Even a great shock is useless if it doesn’t fit properly.

7. I Decide Whether I Want Stock Replacement or Upgrade

I ask myself whether I just want to replace worn-out parts or improve performance.

  • Stock replacement: good if I want factory-like behavior
  • Performance upgrade: better if I want improved handling, durability, and tuning options

If I’m serious about bashing or racing around rough areas, I usually go for an upgrade instead of another basic replacement.

8. I Think About Durability

My Stampede takes a beating, so I want parts that can survive hard use.

I prefer:

  • Strong shock shafts
  • Durable spring steel
  • Leak-resistant seals
  • Parts that are easy to rebuild or service

If I can rebuild the shocks later, I feel better about the purchase because I can keep them working longer.

9. I Consider Weight and Extra Upgrades

My truck’s weight affects the suspension more than I expected. If I’ve added a bigger battery, heavier tires, or other upgrades, I may need firmer springs or thicker oil.

I always think about:

  • Battery weight
  • Tire size
  • Body weight
  • Added accessories

A suspension setup that works on a stock truck may not work the same after upgrades.

10. I Look for Easy Tuning

I like shocks and springs that let me fine-tune my truck later.

Good tuning features include:

  • Multiple spring options
  • Adjustable preload
  • Easy oil changes
  • Replaceable parts

That way, if my Stampede feels too soft or too stiff, I can adjust it without buying everything all over again.

Final Thoughts

After looking at the options, I’d say the best shocks and springs for my 4WD Stampede really come down to how I plan to drive it. If I want better control, smoother landings, and more durability, I should choose a setup that matches my terrain and driving style. For me, the right suspension upgrade is the one that gives my Stampede the balance of performance, handling, and toughness I need most.

Author Profile

Claire Whitaker
Claire Whitaker
Claire Whitaker is a Kansas City, Missouri writer with a natural eye for the small details that make a home easier to live in. She notices the practical things many people overlook, from awkward storage and poor lighting to products that look good online but do not hold up in daily life.

Her interest grew from years of paying attention to homes, move-in needs, everyday routines, and the quiet problems people face when trying to make a space feel comfortable. Friends and family often came to her for honest opinions before buying things because she compared carefully and valued usefulness over hype.

Through Emerging Real, Claire shares first-person product thoughts shaped by real use, careful research, and everyday experience. Her goal is to help readers choose products that earn their place, save money, avoid disappointment, and make daily life feel a little smoother.