Complete Axial Wraith Chris S Suspension Parts List for Upgrades

The Axial Wraith is a popular rock crawler, and the Chris S suspension setup is one of the most sought-after upgrades for serious off-road performance. Chris S, a well-known builder, designed a suspension system that balances articulation, stability, and control. This article provides a comprehensive list of the components used in the Chris S suspension build, along with explanations of their roles and how they improve the Wraith's crawling capabilities.

Whether you're building from scratch or upgrading an existing Wraith, this parts list gives you a clear path to a more capable rig. Each part is chosen to work together, so mixing and matching may require tuning.

Shocks and Springs

The heart of any suspension is the shocks. Chris S uses specific shock absorbers and springs to achieve the right damping and ride height.

1. Axial Aluminum Body Shocks (AX30313)

These shocks offer smooth damping and are rebuildable. They are longer than stock, providing increased articulation. The aluminum construction dissipates heat better and resists flex under load. For the Chris S setup, these are typically mounted in a rearward position on the chassis for improved clearance.

2. Dual Rate Springs

Dual rate springs combine a softer spring with a stiffer secondary spring. This allows the suspension to absorb small bumps easily while resisting bottoming out on larger impacts. Chris S uses a soft primary spring (typically 2.5 lb/in) and a firm secondary spring (around 5 lb/in). The exact rate depends on weight: a heavier Wraith may need slightly stiffer springs.

3. Spring Perches and Retainers

Adjustable spring preload collars allow fine-tuning ride height and vehicle attitude. Chris S uses standard Axial collars (AX30377) with a set screw to prevent slipping. For the rear, longer perches may be used to raise the rear slightly.

Links and Rod Ends

Links control the geometry of the suspension. Chris S uses a three-link front and four-link rear setup for maximum articulation while maintaining axle control.

4. High Clearance Links (Front Upper and Lower)

These links are bent to clear the chassis and steering components, allowing more suspension travel. Chris S uses titanium links for strength without weight. Typical lengths: front upper 3.5 inches, front lower 5.0 inches. For the rear, upper links are 3.5 inches and lower links are 6.5 inches. The rod ends are Axial hardened steel (AX30815) for durability.

5. Rear Upper Link Mount (Chassis Side)

Chris S often uses an adjustable link mount from Vanquish or similar to fine-tune rear anti-squat. This mount allows adjusting the upper link angle independently of the lower links. For the Wraith, a mount with multiple holes (like the Vanquish VPS11568) simplifies setup.

6. Panhard Bar (Optional)

Some Chris S inspired builds include a Panhard bar for the rear axle to reduce side-to-side movement. This is not always present, but adding one improves high-speed stability. If used, the bar should be made from steel or titanium with standard rod ends.

Axles and Knuckles

Axle upgrades are common in the Chris S setup to handle larger tires and improve steering.

7. Axial AR60 Axles (AX31270)

These are the standard Wraith axles, but Chris S modifies them by replacing the axle shafts with hardened steel (like MIP) and adding sealed bearings. The AR60 offers a robust differential and good clearance.

8. Steering Knuckles with High Caster

Chris S uses knuckles that provide increased caster angle (often 15-20 degrees) for better self-centering and straight-line stability. The Vanquish VPS10575 knuckles are a popular choice. They also accommodate larger bearings for reduced friction.

9. Axle Truss and Skid Plate

A truss (like the Axial AX30882) stiffens the axle housing and protects the diff cover. Chris S also adds a metal skid plate under the transmission and transfer case to prevent rock damage.

Chassis and Mounting

The chassis itself can be kept stock, but Chris S uses a few modifications to optimize suspension geometry.

10. Shock Tower (Rear)

To fit the longer shocks, a taller shock tower is often needed. Chris S uses a custom or aftermarket tower from Element RC or similar. This tower has multiple mounting positions to adjust shock angle and ride height.

11. Anti-Roll Bar (Optional)

Some Chris S builds incorporate a sway bar to reduce body roll on side hills. The Axial sway bar kit (AX30790) can be adapted, though many builders prefer no sway bar for maximum articulation. If included, use soft blade.

12. Bump Stops

Internal bump stops in the shocks or external ones on the chassis prevent the tires from contacting the body. Chris S uses silicone bumps (like Pro-Line 6060) that are soft but progressive.

Tuning and Assembly Tips

Adjusting Ride Height

Start with the shocks at mid-length and adjust preload collars to achieve a level stance with a slight squat. The rear should be about 0.5 inches higher than the front to improve climbing.

Setting Camber and Toe

Use camber gauge to set front camber to -2 degrees for better steering. Toe should be 0-1mm in for the front, rear toe at 0-2mm in. Chris S recommends checking after every run.

Shock Oil Weight

Chris S uses 30wt oil in front and 25wt rear for a balanced feel. For rock crawling, lighter oil allows faster rebound. Adjust if the rig bounces or bottoms out.

Final Recommendation

For a reliable Axial Wraith Chris S suspension build, follow this parts list closely. Start with the shocks and links, then address axles and steering. The biggest gains come from the longer shocks and dual rate springs, plus proper geometry with adjustable upper links. Avoid cheap alternatives for rod ends and links, as they wear quickly. Once assembled, tune ride height and damping over several runs. This setup transforms the Wraith into a capable crawler that can handle technical lines with ease. Good luck with your build.