Shock Pliers - Do they really work?
 

For years I've done all kinds of silliness when trying to install rod ends onto my shocks... Recently I found out about shock shaft pliers. I have to be honest, I'm a little hesitance. Every one I've found is just metal where it clamps. Do these really not scratch the shaft when clamped down?

What shock pliers is most recommended?

Re: Shock Pliers - Do they really work?
 

This has been one of my favorite tools since I got it. Great help for building links and installing/removing ball ends as well.

https://www.amainhobbies.com/protek-...k-8267/p248643

Re: Shock Pliers - Do they really work?
 

They make the job waaaayyy easier!

Bought my 1st set/tool last year,and WOW, love them!

Re: Shock Pliers - Do they really work?
 

Shock shaft pliers area a MUST HAVE in building shocks. Heck, even if you only buy pre-built shocks, or have shocks from an RTR, you should still have a pair. I've got two - Tekno, & ProTek. They have considerably more user than just removing/reinstalling rod ends. They are the easiest way to install/remove pivot balls. For certain shocks, when tightening the lower cap (what bills the O/X-rings in place) onto the body, I'll use one to hold the body, and the other to hold the cap, them counter-rotate to tighten. As I said - a MUST HAVE.

~ More peace, love, laughter & kindness would make the world a MUCH better place [emoji1690]

Re: Shock Pliers - Do they really work?
 

Protec RC has a really nice set that can also install and remove ball ends. https://www.amainhobbies.com/protek-...k-8267/p248643

These are made from aluminum so it wont mar the steel shock shafts.

Ever since I got my set I find myself using it quite often, I'd say its a must have tool.

Re: Shock Pliers - Do they really work?
 

Thats the key part right there, Aluminum is softer then the shaft so it wont mar them.

Def worth having and beats the alternative pliers.

Re: Shock Pliers - Do they really work?
 

Once you buy shock shaft pliers you won't live without them.

I can tell you I have indents in my Protek shock pliers from threads on a shock shaft. No idea when that happened, but I can tell you the shock shaft threads never got damaged enough to where it triggered me to look. I try to avoid that opening in the pliers jaw now just to ensure I don't ruin the shock shaft.

You are in luck though. Arrowmax makes soft jaw shock shaft pliers!

https://www.arrowmax-rc.com/xcart/am...v3-black-.html

AMain does carry them apparently even though they are out of stock right now, but the reviews aren't great FYI: https://www.amainhobbies.com/arrowma...0031-b/p441359

https://www.arrowmax-rc.com/xcart/im...M-190031-B.jpg

Re: Shock Pliers - Do they really work?
 

+1 on the Protek shock pliers. I have both STRC and Protek pliers. Both work equally well as far as holding the shock shaft in place, but the Protek can also remove the ball ends. Shock Pliers are a must-have because eventually you will have to rebuild a set of shocks.

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Re: Shock Pliers - Do they really work?
 

I have the “associated “and “protec” pliers. It’s a must have tool


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Re: Shock Pliers - Do they really work?
 

If you’re willing to spend the money these are the best

https://www.amainhobbies.com/tekno-r...RoCHNwQAvD_BwE

Re: Shock Pliers - Do they really work?
 

What makes them worth the $10 more than the Protek pliers?

Re: Shock Pliers - Do they really work?
 

I'm not saying it's worth more, but I honestly prefer the feel of our pliers in the hand versus any of those curved style ones, by a large amount. We designed it that way on purpose. And if you're working with 8th scale cars (or our shocks) the 12mm and 17mm hexes are nice to have. A lot of people like the specific "ball in" pivot ball part of the tool, it prevents pushing the ball all the way through the rod end.

Re: Shock Pliers - Do they really work?
 

Wait, are you part of Tekno?

Re: Shock Pliers - Do they really work?
 

Yes, I'm one of the design engineers.

Re: Shock Pliers - Do they really work?
 

Shock pliers are life changing. Definitely get some.

Re: Shock Pliers - Do they really work?
 

I use the Tekno pliers myself and LOVE them. I almost appreciate the ball in/out feature more than the shock plier part. I mentioned in a recent build thread that I would have paid twice the price for them now! "thumbsup"

Re: Shock Pliers - Do they really work?
 

My favorite feature as well. Holding the shock shafts is a bonus.

Re: Shock Pliers - Do they really work?
 

Yep, must have tool. Use my shock shaft pliers often! "thumbsup"


The rounded handle type are best in the hand, it's what I've got. No need for the plastic inserts either, aluminum is perfect. 8)"thumbsup"

Re: Shock Pliers - Do they really work?
 

A pair of generic pliers, a bit of rubber band ... no need for a special tool.

Re: Shock Pliers - Do they really work?
 

If the OP only plans to assemble a single RC and to never tinker with it sure that may be perfectly fine.
If you plan to delve deeper into RC then theres no excuse to not have a pair.

I might have agreed with you before I used a set but these are truly indispensable. My Shock shaft pliers get used so much they never leave my workbench.