Ultimate Guide to Clodbuster Suspension Parts: Upgrades and Replacements

The Tamiya Clodbuster is a legendary RC monster truck, but its suspension can benefit from upgrades. This guide covers essential Clodbuster suspension parts, including shocks, links, and mounting hardware, to help you improve handling, durability, and ground clearance.

Understanding Clodbuster Suspension Basics

The Clodbuster uses a solid-axle, leaf-spring front suspension and a four-link rear setup with coilover shocks. The stock suspension is robust but can be upgraded for better articulation, reliability, and performance on rough terrain.

Front Suspension: Leaf Springs and Shackles

The front axle is suspended by leaf springs mounted to the chassis and axle housing. Stock leaf springs can sag over time. Upgraded options include:

• Heavy-duty leaf springs: Made from thicker steel or composite materials, these reduce sag and improve load capacity.
• Reverse-eye leaf springs: Provide a lower ride height while maintaining travel.
• Extended shackles: Allow more spring articulation and lift, but may require longer shocks.

Rear Suspension: Four-Link Setup

The rear uses adjustable upper and lower trailing arms (links) and coilover shocks. Key parts:

• Turnbuckle links: Replace plastic links with aluminum or steel turnbuckles for adjustability and strength.
• Rod ends: Upgrade to metal rod ends with ball joints to eliminate play.
• Shock towers: Aluminum shock towers increase rigidity and prevent flex.

Shocks: The Heart of Your Suspension

Stock Clodbuster shocks are oil-filled but can leak or lack damping. Upgrades include:

Coilover Shocks

• Diameter: Standard 12mm or 16mm shocks fit. 16mm shocks offer more oil capacity and smoother damping.
• Spring rates: Choose softer springs for more articulation (crawling) or stiffer for high-speed stability.
• Rebound and compression adjustment: Some shocks allow tuning via oil viscosity or adjustable pistons.

Air Shocks

Air shocks are an alternative, offering adjustable ride height and progressive damping. They require an air pump and can be tuned for different terrain.

Shock Mounting and Geometry

• Shock angle: Angling shocks outward increases roll stiffness; vertical mounting increases articulation.
• Mounting hardware: Use ball studs instead of clevis pins for less binding.

Links and Rod Ends: Strength Matters

Plastic stock links can bend or break under heavy throttle or crashes. Upgrade to:

• Aluminum or titanium links: Lighter and stronger than steel. Titanium resists corrosion.
• Adjustable turnbuckles: Allow fine-tuning of camber and toe.
• Sealed rod ends: Prevent dirt ingress and last longer.

Stock vs. Aftermarket Dimensions

Aftermarket links come in various lengths. For a stock Clodbuster, use 110mm upper links and 130mm lower links in the rear. Front steering links are typically 95mm. Measure before ordering.

Axle and Differential Upgrades

Suspension performance depends on the axles. Consider:

• Locked differentials: For crawling, lock the rear diff or use a spool. Open diffs help with turning on loose surfaces.
• Heavy-duty axle shafts: Prevent breakage under high torque.
• C-hubs and knuckles: Aluminum versions reduce slop and improve steering response.

Sway Bars and Anti-Roll

Adding a sway bar reduces body roll in corners while maintaining articulation. Aftermarket kits are available for the Clodbuster. Only use if you race or want flatter cornering.

Tools and Installation Tips

• Thread locker: Use blue Loctite on metal-to-metal fasteners.
• Grease: Apply to pivot points and shock shafts.
• Alignment: Set toe-in to 1-2 degrees for stability; camber 1 degree negative for cornering.

Recommended Upgrades by Use Case

For Rock Crawling

• Soft springs (2.5-3.5 lbs/in)
• Long-travel shocks (120mm+)
• Locked rear differential
• High-articulation links (flex joints)

For Bashings and Jumping

• Medium-stiff springs (4-5 lbs/in)
• Stiffer shock oil (40-50wt)
• Aluminum shock towers
• Heavy-duty links

For Speed Runs

• Low ride height (short springs)
• Sway bars
• Low-friction shocks with thin oil (20wt)

Final Recommendations

Start with the basics: replace plastic links with adjustable turnbuckles and upgrade to metal rod ends. Then, invest in a quality set of coilover shocks (16mm bore) with appropriate springs for your driving style. Lock the rear differential if you crawl. For most general use, a 4-link rear setup with soft springs and medium oil provides a good balance.

Avoid cheap unbranded parts; stick with reputable brands like Tamiya, GPM, or Integy. Check compatibility with your Clodbuster version (kit vs. RTR). Always measure before cutting or modifying.

By upgrading your Clodbuster suspension parts, you'll enjoy better performance, fewer breakages, and more fun on the trail or track.