Overview
The Associated FT Low Friction X-Rings (AS91493) represent a Factory Team upgrade designed specifically for serious RC enthusiasts who demand the very best performance from their shock systems. These optional upgrade components are engineered to enhance the performance characteristics of your RC car by improving seal quality whilst simultaneously reducing friction in your shock absorbers. Whether you're competing at the track or pushing your RC vehicle to its limits during weekend sessions, upgrading to low friction X-rings is a proven method to optimise your suspension setup and achieve more consistent handling.
This premium upgrade pack contains eight X-ring shock seals, providing you with a complete set to refresh or upgrade your shocks. Associated, a globally recognised name in competitive RC racing, has engineered these rings to deliver measurable improvements in shock performance. The low friction design means your shocks will respond more effectively to track conditions, translating to better traction, improved handling balance, and more predictable cornering behaviour. For RC car enthusiasts in the UK seeking to extract maximum performance from their Team Associated vehicles, this is an essential upgrade worth considering.
The X-ring design itself is a significant advancement over traditional O-ring shock seals. X-rings feature a unique geometry that provides a superior seal against shock fluid leakage whilst maintaining dramatically lower friction characteristics. This means your shocks will compress and extend more smoothly, responding faster to suspension input, and delivering more responsive handling across a wider range of driving conditions. Whether you're running on tarmac, carpet, or loose surfaces, these Factory Team shock seals will help your Associated RC buggy or truck perform at its absolute best.
Key Features
- Factory Team Upgrade Component — These X-rings are specifically engineered by Associated's Factory Team division, meaning they meet the exact same quality standards and performance requirements used in competitive racing. When you purchase Factory Team components, you're investing in components trusted by professional RC racers.
- Low Friction Technology — The X-ring profile design provides significantly reduced friction compared to standard O-ring seals, which means your shock absorbers will respond more quickly and smoothly to track inputs, delivering improved handling precision and more predictable vehicle behaviour during aggressive driving.
- Superior Sealing Performance — The unique X-ring geometry creates a better seal with your shock cylinders, preventing shock fluid leakage and maintaining consistent damping characteristics throughout your RC car's running session. A better seal means your suspension will maintain its tuned characteristics for longer.
- Pack of Eight Seals — This comprehensive pack provides you with a complete replacement set, allowing you to refresh all four shocks on your Associated RC10B5 or RC10B5M with a spare set, or to upgrade an additional vehicle. Having spare seals on hand means you're always ready for the next session.
- Optional Upgrade Specification — These components are designated as optional upgrades, meaning they're designed to enhance performance beyond the standard factory specification. This positioning confirms these are components for drivers who are serious about maximising their RC car's competitive potential.
- Compatible with RC10B5 and RC10B5M — These X-rings are specifically engineered for compatibility with the Team Associated RC10B5 and RC10B5M buggies, ensuring perfect fitment and optimal performance integration with these competition-grade RC vehicles.
Technical Performance
The Associated FT Low Friction X-Rings represent precision engineering at its finest, incorporating advanced elastomer materials and geometric design specifically developed for competitive RC racing applications. The X-ring profile is fundamentally different from traditional O-ring seals, featuring a cross-sectional design that creates four contact points with the shock cylinder wall instead of two. This engineering approach delivers multiple performance advantages: the four contact points distribute sealing pressure more evenly, reducing localised stress on the elastomer material, which translates to extended component lifespan and more consistent performance characteristics. The low friction technology means that as your shock moves through its full travel during driving—compression and extension—the resistance to movement is minimised, allowing your damper fluid to flow more freely through the piston orifices. This results in faster shock response times, more accurate suspension compliance, and notably improved handling predictability. For RC car enthusiasts running their vehicles on UK tracks or outdoor courses, this improved responsiveness makes a tangible difference when driving aggressively through high-speed corners or navigating technical sections where precise suspension behaviour is critical. The materials engineering is also optimised for longevity; these Factory Team components are designed to maintain their performance characteristics through extended use, resisting degradation from shock fluid exposure and repeated compression cycles. Whether you're running your Associated RC10B5 or RC10B5M in indoor carpet environments or outdoor asphalt tracks, these shock seals will contribute to consistent, reliable performance.
What's in the Box
Frequently Asked Questions
- What exactly is an X-ring shock seal and how is it different from a standard O-ring? — An X-ring features a cross-sectional profile with four contact points against the shock cylinder wall, compared to the two contact points of a traditional O-ring. This design provides superior sealing performance with dramatically reduced friction, meaning your shocks respond more quickly and smoothly whilst maintaining consistent damping. The improved geometry also helps prevent shock fluid leakage more effectively, keeping your suspension tuning stable throughout your driving sessions.
- Will these X-rings improve my RC car's handling? — Yes, by reducing friction in your shock absorbers, these X-rings allow your suspension to respond more quickly and accurately to track inputs. You'll notice improved handling precision, more responsive cornering, better traction consistency, and more predictable vehicle behaviour. The improvement is particularly noticeable when driving aggressively or in technical sections where suspension compliance is critical to maintaining speed.
- Which Associated RC cars are compatible with these X-rings? — These Factory Team Low Friction X-Rings are specifically engineered for the Team Associated RC10B5 and RC10B5M buggies. These are competition-grade vehicles designed for serious RC enthusiasts in the UK who demand precision engineering and consistent performance.
- How often should I replace my shock X-rings? — The frequency of replacement depends on usage intensity and environmental conditions. In general, if you're running regularly, inspecting your shocks every few months is recommended. If you notice reduced damping response, uneven shock compression, or fluid leakage, it's time to replace your X-rings. Factory Team components like these are designed for durability, but regular maintenance ensures optimal performance.
- Are these easy to install? — Yes, replacing shock seals is a straightforward maintenance task. You'll need to disassemble your shock bodies, remove the old X-rings, and install the new ones. If you're unfamiliar with shock service, consider consulting the detailed Associated assembly manuals or watching instructional videos to ensure proper installation and prevent damage to shock components.
- Can I use these X-rings on other Associated models? — These X-rings are specifically engineered for the RC10B5 and RC10B5M. Whilst they may physically fit some other Associated vehicles, proper fitment and performance are only guaranteed for these specified models. Using the correct components for your specific vehicle ensures optimal performance and longevity.
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 Associated FT Low Friction X-Rings AS91493 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.
- Product Type: X-Ring Shock Seals
- Brand: Team Associated
- Model Number: AS91493
- Barcode: 784695914933
- Fitment Type: Optional upgrade component
- Pack Quantity: Eight X-ring shock seals
- Seal Design: X-ring profile for reduced friction and superior sealing
- Compatibility: Team Associated RC10B5
- Compatibility: Team Associated RC10B5M
- Category: Factory Team upgrade
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