FTX9565

Overview

The FTX DR8 Rear Shock Absorber (FTX9565) is an essential suspension component designed specifically for the FTX DR8 1/8 Desert Racer. This rear shock absorber plays a crucial role in maintaining stability, traction and control across a wide range of terrain, from smooth racing tracks to rough off-road surfaces. Whether you're a seasoned RC enthusiast looking to upgrade your setup or a dedicated basher pushing your RC car UK to its limits, having quality suspension parts is fundamental to achieving consistent performance and extending the lifespan of your vehicle.

These rear shock absorbers are manufactured by FTX, a recognised brand in the RC hobby community known for producing reliable and cost-effective spares for their range of desert racers, crawlers and rock buggies. The FTX DR8 is a popular 1/8 scale desert racer that demands precision-engineered suspension components to handle the demands of high-speed running and rough terrain. The rear shock absorbers are sold as a pair, providing you with both rear units needed to fully refresh or upgrade your suspension system.

If your FTX DR8 is exhibiting poor handling characteristics, excessive bouncing, or uneven ride height, worn or damaged rear shocks could be the culprit. Replacing these components with genuine FTX spares ensures your RC car maintains optimal suspension geometry and performance characteristics. Available in the classic red finish as well as a vibrant blue option, the FTX DR8 Rear Shock Absorber offers both functionality and aesthetic customisation to match your RC vehicle's colour scheme.

Key Features

• Genuine FTX OEM Component — These are original manufacturer spare parts designed and engineered specifically for the FTX DR8, ensuring perfect fitment and compatibility without any guesswork or modifications required during installation.
• Paired Supply — The FTX9565 provides both rear shock absorbers needed for a complete rear suspension refresh, allowing you to replace worn or damaged shocks without needing to purchase multiple sets.
• Suspension Performance — Rear shock absorbers are critical for maintaining chassis control, improving traction during acceleration and braking, and reducing body roll during cornering, all of which directly translate to faster lap times and more enjoyable driving experience.
• Durability and Reliability — FTX suspension components are engineered to withstand the rigours of off-road racing and recreational bashing, providing consistent performance across multiple driving sessions and varying terrain conditions.
• Essential Maintenance Component — Like all shock absorbers, these parts experience wear over time due to constant compression and extension cycles, making them an important consumable item for any serious RC enthusiast who wants to maintain peak performance.
• Colour Options Available — Alongside the standard red finish, FTX offers these rear shock absorbers in blue (model FTX9565B), allowing you to personalise your RC car's appearance and match factory colour schemes on the FTX DR8.

Technical Performance

The FTX DR8 Rear Shock Absorber represents a critical component within the suspension architecture of a 1/8 scale desert racer. These shock absorbers work in conjunction with other suspension elements such as the rear shock tower, shock mounting set, rear upper suspension arms, and related linkages to create a responsive and controlled suspension system capable of handling high-speed running across diverse terrain. The engineering and design of these components reflect FTX's understanding of desert racing dynamics, where suspension geometry and damping characteristics must balance responsiveness with stability. Related components in the FTX DR8 suspension ecosystem include the shock body and cap set (FTX9663), shock shafts and pistons (FTX9665), and shock o-rings and seals set (FTX9668), all of which work together to ensure optimal damping characteristics and sealing integrity. The quality of these suspension components directly impacts the vehicle's ability to absorb impacts from rough terrain, maintain consistent ground contact for traction, and provide the driver with predictable handling characteristics during both high-speed racing and slower technical sections of a course.

What's in the Box

• FTX DR8 Rear Shock Absorber pair (both rear units)

Compatibility

• FTX5495R — FTX DR8 1/8 Desert Racer 6S RTR Red
• FTX5495B — FTX DR8 1/8 Desert Racer 6S RTR Blue

Frequently Asked Questions

• Is the FTX DR8 Rear Shock Absorber suitable for beginners? — While this is a spare part rather than a complete vehicle, it is perfectly suitable for beginners who own an FTX DR8 and need to replace worn suspension components. However, installation may require some mechanical knowledge or assistance from an experienced RC enthusiast. Beginners new to RC hobby might prefer to start with a ready to run RTR RC car package before considering component-level upgrades.
• How often do I need to replace shock absorbers on my FTX DR8? — Shock absorber lifespan depends on usage intensity, driving style, and maintenance practices. Regular bashing and high-speed running will cause faster wear than occasional recreational driving. If you notice bouncy handling, delayed damping response, or uneven ride height between the left and right sides of the vehicle, it's likely time to replace your shocks. Many serious RC racers and bashers inspect and potentially refresh suspension components every few months of regular use.
• Can I use these shocks on other FTX models? — The FTX DR8 Rear Shock Absorber is specifically engineered for the FTX DR8 desert racer. While FTX produces many different RC vehicles ranging from crawlers to buggies to rock raiders, each model has its own suspension geometry and shock specifications. It is important to verify compatibility before attempting to use these components on different FTX models, as incorrect shock selection could result in poor handling and potential damage to the vehicle.
• What is the difference between FTX9565 and FTX9565B? — Both model numbers refer to the same FTX DR8 Rear Shock Absorber with identical internal engineering and performance characteristics. The primary difference is aesthetic: FTX9565 comes in the standard red finish, whilst FTX9565B is finished in blue, allowing you to match your FTX DR8's colour scheme and personalise the appearance of your RC car.
• Do I need to replace the shock shafts and pistons as well? — The shock shafts and pistons (FTX9665) are internal components that work within the shock body. Depending on the condition of your existing shocks, you may be able to reuse the existing internal components or you may wish to replace them as part of a complete suspension refresh. FTX also offers shock body and cap sets (FTX9663) and shock o-rings and seals sets (FTX9668) as separate components, allowing you to address specific wear areas without replacing the entire shock assembly if not necessary.

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 FTX DR8 REAR SHOCK ABSORBER FTX9565 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.