Overview
The Traxxas Springs, Rear (White) (Progressive Rate) (2 pcs) represent a precision suspension upgrade engineered specifically for 1/10 scale Slash Short Course Trucks and compatible Traxxas models equipped with #5862 aluminium Big Bore shocks. These custom-wound progressive-rate springs are designed to deliver responsive control across a wide range of terrain, making them an essential tuning component for anyone serious about maximising their RC car's performance. Whether you're a competitive racer pushing for lap time improvements or a weekend basher looking to improve ride quality and handling consistency, these rear springs offer the perfect balance of compliance and control that Traxxas is renowned for.
Progressive-rate springs are a sophisticated suspension solution that sets them apart from conventional fixed-rate springs. Instead of maintaining a constant stiffness throughout their compression range, progressive springs start soft to absorb small bumps and vibrations smoothly, then progressively stiffen as they compress further to handle larger impacts and jumps with authority. This dual-nature performance means you get the best of both worlds: a plush, responsive ride quality over minor terrain imperfections, and the ability to absorb significant impacts without bottoming out or losing control. For UK RC enthusiasts running their Slash models on mixed terrain—whether that's smooth tarmac tracks, rutted outdoor courses, or rough bashing grounds—progressive springs deliver superior versatility compared to linear-rate alternatives.
These rear springs are engineered to work seamlessly with Traxxas's Big Bore shock absorbers, which use a piston-and-oil damping system to prevent oscillation and maintain chassis stability. When spring rate and damping force are properly matched, as they are in this factory-approved combination, your suspension will support the vehicle efficiently without becoming too stiff (which causes a bumpy ride and reduced traction) or too soft (which results in excessive chassis roll and bottoming out). The springs featured here are identical in rate to Traxxas stock Slash springs, making them ideal for all nitro and electric Rustler and Stampede applications, as well as Bandit and Nitro Sport platforms, providing excellent compatibility across Traxxas's short course truck range.
Key Features
- Progressive Rate Design — These springs feature a custom-wound progressive rate that provides soft initial response for small bumps whilst progressively stiffening to absorb harder impacts. This means you'll experience a more responsive, controlled ride that adapts intelligently to changing terrain conditions, rather than using a single fixed stiffness throughout the entire compression range.
- Steel Construction — Built from high-quality steel, these springs offer exceptional durability and consistency across repeated compression cycles. Steel provides the ideal balance of elasticity and strength needed for reliable performance over extended periods of use, whether you're racing competitively or enjoying casual backyard bashing sessions.
- Matched for Big Bore Shocks — These rear springs are specifically engineered to work with Traxxas #5862 aluminium Big Bore shocks, ensuring optimal damping compatibility. The Big Bore design features larger diameter cylinders that allow for increased oil volume, providing superior heat dissipation and more progressive damping characteristics that complement these springs perfectly.
- Precision Length and Diameter Specifications — With a length of 71mm (2.8 inches), outer diameter of 16.75mm (0.66 inches), inner diameter of 14.3mm (0.56 inches), and wire diameter of 1.3mm (0.05 inches), these springs are manufactured to exacting tolerances. This precision ensures consistent performance and reliability, with springs that maintain their rate characteristics through countless compression cycles.
- Rear-Specific Design — These springs are specifically designed for rear suspension applications, featuring characteristics tuned to complement the weight distribution and handling requirements of the rear end. Using rear-specific springs ensures your Slash model achieves the intended suspension geometry and performance envelope.
- Two Springs per Pack — This package includes a pair of springs, allowing you to replace both rear springs simultaneously and maintain balanced suspension characteristics left to right. Replacing both springs together ensures symmetrical handling and prevents the performance inconsistencies that can occur when springs of different ages or wear states are mixed.
- White Colour Identification — The white finish provides easy visual identification and organisation of your suspension components. Traxxas uses colour-coding to identify different spring rates, making it simple to select the correct springs for your specific tuning needs and to quickly identify which springs are installed on your model.
Technical Performance
The Traxxas suspension tuning philosophy, as detailed in their comprehensive suspension guides, emphasises that proper spring rate selection is fundamental to achieving optimal vehicle performance. These rear springs represent a carefully engineered component that works in concert with your shock absorber's damping characteristics. The progressive-rate design means the springs are soft enough to quickly compress and absorb small bumps, preventing harshness and maintaining tyre contact with the ground for better traction. However, as suspension travel increases, the rate progressively stiffens, providing increasing resistance to compression during larger impacts and preventing the suspension from bottoming out when landing jumps or hitting significant terrain features. The 71mm length positions the suspension geometry correctly for rear-end handling, whilst the 16.75mm outer diameter and 1.3mm wire diameter provide the structural integrity needed to withstand the forces of competitive racing or aggressive bashing. Steel construction ensures consistent performance across temperature variations and extended use, with the material's elasticity allowing springs to return reliably to their natural length after each compression cycle. When paired with appropriately matched damping—whether you're using factory oil viscosity or experimenting with different viscosity weights—these springs will provide balanced suspension performance that supports the vehicle without excessive stiffness (which creates a bumpy, jarring ride and reduces traction) or excessive softness (which causes wallowing in corners, slow weight transfer, and easy bottoming out). The springs are engineered to the same specifications as Traxxas stock Slash springs, meaning they represent a known, proven tuning baseline that has been extensively tested across the full range of Slash platforms, from 2WD electric models to nitro-powered variants.
What's in the Box
- 2 × Rear White Progressive-Rate Springs (for Big Bore shocks)
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is a progressive-rate spring and why would I want one for my RC car? — A progressive-rate spring is custom-wound to provide a soft initial rate that gradually stiffens as the spring compresses. This means small bumps are absorbed smoothly and responsively, whilst larger impacts are handled with progressive resistance that prevents bottoming out. Progressive springs are ideal for mixed-terrain driving because they adapt intelligently to different bump sizes, providing better overall handling consistency than fixed-rate springs across varying conditions.
- Are these springs compatible with my Traxxas Slash model? — These rear springs are designed for Traxxas #5862 aluminium Big Bore shocks and are compatible with Traxxas Slash 1/10 2WD RTR models (including VXL-3S brushless variants and Extreme HD versions in all colour options). They are also compatible with Rustler, Stampede, Bandit, and Nitro Sport platforms. If you're unsure whether your specific model uses Big Bore shocks, check your vehicle's specification sheet or contact us for guidance on ensuring compatibility.
- What is the difference between progressive-rate springs and standard springs? — Standard fixed-rate springs maintain the same stiffness throughout their entire compression range, whilst progressive-rate springs start softer and gradually stiffen. This means progressive springs provide a smoother ride quality over small bumps whilst still resisting bottoming out during large impacts. Progressive springs are generally considered superior for recreational driving and mixed-terrain use because they deliver better overall balance between ride comfort and impact resistance.
- How do I know if I need different spring rates? — Spring selection depends on your terrain, driving style, and desired handling characteristics. If your suspension feels too soft (excessive body roll, easy bottoming out), you may need stiffer springs. If it feels too hard (bumpy, jarring ride, reduced traction), softer springs might help. Traxxas recommends starting with factory-stock spring rates and experimenting from there. These springs match the stock Slash spring rate, making them a reliable tuning baseline for most conditions.
- Can I use these springs with a different shock absorber? — These springs are specifically engineered for Traxxas #5862 aluminium Big Bore shocks. Using them with different shock models may result in suboptimal performance because spring rate and damping force must be matched for the suspension to work properly. If you use incompatible shocks, the springs may pack up (compress too much) or cause the suspension to be excessively bouncy. Always ensure spring and shock compatibility before installation.
- Do I need to change the oil in my shocks when I change springs? — Not necessarily. However, if you're making significant spring rate changes, you may also need to adjust damping force through shock oil viscosity changes. Traxxas provides comprehensive guidance on suspension tuning: if you increase spring stiffness significantly, you might increase damping (using higher-viscosity oil) to prevent harshness. Conversely, if you go softer, lighter damping may be appropriate. Start with the factory settings and experiment carefully.
- How do I install these springs on my Traxxas Slash? — Installation requires removing the shock assembly, compressing the spring using a shock spring compressor tool, and replacing the spring. This is a moderately advanced task requiring proper tools and care. Detailed installation instructions are typically provided with Traxxas replacement springs. If you're unfamiliar with shock service, we recommend watching Traxxas's official installation videos or contacting our team for guidance to ensure correct fitment and avoid damage to your shocks.
- What is ride height and how do springs affect it? — Ride height is the distance between your RC car's chassis and the ground when at rest. Springs support the vehicle's weight and determine this distance. Adding spacers above the spring retainer or adjusting the threaded spring collar can increase or decrease ride height. For maximum performance on smooth, high-grip surfaces, lower ride height lowers your centre of gravity and improves cornering. For rough terrain, higher ride height provides more ground clearance and suspension travel for big impacts.
Why Buy from RC Model Shop?
RC Model Shop is a trusted UK RC retailer and authorised dealer for all the brands we stock, including Traxxas, ARRMA, Losi, FTX, Hobbywing, Spektrum and more. Based in Walsall, we have a physical store where customers are welcome to come in, view products and purchase in store. Whether you are a seasoned competitor, a weekend basher, or just discovering the world of RC for the first time, our team of experienced RC enthusiasts is here to help you find the perfect setup and provide ongoing support. Order the Traxxas Springs, Rear (White) (progressive rate) (2 pcs) (fits #5862 aluminium Big Bore shocks) TRX5859 today with confidence, knowing you are buying from an authorised retailer with genuine products, expert knowledge and a commitment to customer satisfaction. Shop online or visit us in Walsall — we look forward to helping you get the most out of your RC experience.
