QA1 Shocks Frequently Asked Questions

In the QA1 part numbers, which is first - compression or rebound?

Compression first, then rebound.

If I have a split rate shock such as a 3-5 and I turn the shock 180 degrees, will the shock then be a 5-3?

No, it makes no difference if the shock is mounted upright or upside down. The only way you can change your valving is through internally changing the deflective discs or otherwise physically adjusting the valving.

Are QA1 shocks gas charged?

The QA1 monotube shocks are gas charged. Other series utilize either a gas bag or foam cells.

What is the difference between a monotube and twin tube shock?

Monotube shocks utilize a single tube cylinder, with the piston rod moving through it. With this design, the cylinder surrounding the piston rod is completely submerged with oil. At the base of the cylinder, a dividing piston separates high pressure nitrogen gas from the oil. The small chamber of gas under the dividing piston keeps a positive pressure on the oil, forcing the piston rod to full extension.

A twin tube shock utilizes two tube cylinders. The outer tube is the body of the shock. The inner tube, also known as the compression tube, supports the piston assembly. Throughout the compression stroke, some oil is forced through the base valve out into the outer chamber. The gas bag is compressed through the compression stroke. During rebound, oil is replenished back into the compression tube from the outer chamber. This design can withstand some body damage and still function properly. This design is user friendly to rebuild, because there is no high gas pressure.

Can QA1 shocks be run upside down?

Yes. All QA1 circle track shocks, except for stock mount, can be run upside down, upright and at all angles in between.

What valvings are available with the tuning kit?

For QA1 revalveable large body shocks, you can choose any valving between 0 and 13. For QA1 revalveable small body shocks, any valving combination between 0.5 and 8 is available.

What valving would I have to order so that the shock will be easily revalveable when I get it into my own hands?

With revalveable QA1 circle track shocks, you can purchase any of the valving codes and revalve them as you please with the QA1 Tuning Kit. The Tuning Kit allows you to change your valvings for both compression and rebound.

Is it really reasonable to revalve shocks between qualifying and running my heat or feature races?

You bet it is. Once you have revalved the shocks a couple of times you will have no problem changing your valving in 10 minutes or less.

What can a driver do to keep the dirt and debris out of the shocks?

Most QA1 shocks include a wiper to help prevent most dirt and debris from entering the shock. If needed, you can also purchase either a cloth cover that almost looks like a sock, or some accordion-style tubing and zip tie it to the shock right by each eyelet. These steps will further assist in keeping the dirt and other debris away from the piston rod.

Can I evaluate a shock by hand, or is a dyno required?

It is impossible to accurately evaluate a shock through stroking it by hand. The shocks perform much differently on a race car when the piston velocity is much quicker than they do when you are stroking them by hand. It is important to evaluate the shocks at low, medium and high piston velocities to have an indication of how the shocks will affect handling. Therefore, a dynomometer is necessary for any evaluation.