Best Silicone Spray for RC Cars [In 2024]

Last Updated on September 2, 2024 by Jaxon Mike

Remote control (RC) cars and trucks require regular maintenance and care to keep performing at their best. One essential maintenance task is lubricating various components to prevent friction and wear. Silicone spray is the ideal lubricant for many parts of RC vehicles. But with so many silicone spray products on the market, how do you choose the right one?

In this article, we’ll cover everything you need to know about picking the best silicone spray for your RC car or truck. We’ll start with an overview of how silicone spray works and its key benefits. Next, we’ll discuss the important factors to consider when selecting a silicone spray. After that, we’ll provide detailed reviews of the top-rated silicone sprays specifically designed for RC vehicles. We’ll wrap up with some tips on properly applying silicone spray. Let’s get started!

Reviews of the Best Silicone Sprays for RC Cars

Product	Type	PRICE	Description	Viscosities	Key Features
CRC Silicone Spray	General Purpose	CHECK LATEST PRICE	Versatile silicone spray safe for plastic and rubber	N/A	Provides long-lasting lubrication; Prevents sticking, binding & squeaking; Protects against rust and corrosion
WD-40 Specialist Silicone Lubricant	General Purpose	CHECK LATEST PRICE	Leaves a clean, dry silicone film; Made by a trusted brand	N/A	Helps improve rubber component performance; Protects against dirt buildup; Prevents sticking and squeaking
Traxxas Silicone Spray	RC Specific	CHECK LATEST PRICE	Official Traxxas licensed silicone spray	N/A	High slip & low friction; Ideal for air filters, tires, shocks & seals; Prevents sticking & binding
Team Associated Silicone Shock Fluid	Shock Oil	CHECK LATEST PRICE	Factory shock fluid from Team Associated RC	Variable	Ideal viscosity for RC shocks; Allows tuning of shock performance
Pro-Line Silicone Shock Oil	Shock Oil	CHECK LATEST PRICE	High-performance shock oil from Pro-Line	Variable	Range of viscosities for customization; Tunable for conditions
Arrma Silicone Oil Diff Lube	Differential Oil	CHECK LATEST PRICE	Designed specifically for RC differentials	Light, Medium, Heavy	Optimal lube for gear diffs; Stays in place; Prevents wear
TLR Tuning Silicone Diff Oil	Differential Oil	CHECK LATEST PRICE	Differential oil from TLR RC manufacturer	Range of viscosities	Allows tuning of diff performance; Won’t migrate from diffs
Hot Racing Silicone Diff Fluid	Differential Oil	CHECK LATEST PRICE	Brightly colored diff fluids	Wide viscosity range	Easy leakage detection; Maximum lubrication; Water resistant

What is Silicone Spray?

Silicone spray is a lubricant that contains silicone oil. It comes in a pressurized aerosol can and sprays out as a light mist. The silicone provides excellent lubricating properties while the spray application allows you to precisely target small components.

How Does It Work?

When sprayed, the tiny droplets of silicone oil coat the surface, providing a super slippery barrier between moving parts. This prevents friction, wear, and squeaking noises. The silicone oil doesn’t evaporate so the lubrication lasts a long time. It also repels dirt and dust.

Benefits of Using It

There are several key advantages to using silicone spray lubricant:

• Reduces friction and wear – The slippery silicone prevents rubbing and grinding between parts. This extends the lifespan of components.
• Quiets squeaks and noises – The lubricant stops any squeaking or screeching from tight clearance fits.
• Repels contaminants – The silicone oil forms a protective barrier that stops dirt and dust from sticking and building up.
• Withstands temperature extremes – Silicone maintains its lubricity even when cold or hot. It can handle sub-zero winter temps or blazing summer heat.
• Safe for plastics – Unlike some lubricants, silicone won’t harm plastic or rubber parts. It’s compatible with the materials used in RC vehicles.
• Long-lasting – Silicone spray keeps working long after application. It doesn’t dry out or wipe away easily.

Factors to Consider When Choosing Silicone Spray

With all the silicone spray products aimed at RC enthusiasts, how do you pick the right one? Here are the key factors to take into account:

Type of RC Vehicle

• On-road vs off-road – Off-road bashers need heavier-duty lubrication than smooth-surface on-road cars.
• Motor type – Electric RC’s have different needs than nitro-powered or gas models. Some silicone sprays are formulated specifically for electric motors.
• Vehicle components – Certain parts like shocks and seals require silicone oils of certain viscosities, or thicknesses.

Frequency of Use

How often you drive your RC will determine how frequently you need to reapply lubricant. Vehicles used more heavily will benefit from long-lasting, heavy-duty silicone sprays.

Weather Conditions

Driving in wet, dusty, or sandy conditions requires silicone that can resist being washed away. Look for sprays promoted as “all-weather” lubricants.

Budget

There’s quite a range when it comes to silicone spray prices. Determine how much you’re willing to spend per can to narrow down the options.

With the right considerations in mind, let’s look at reviews of the top silicone sprays for RC enthusiasts.

Reviews of the Best Silicone Sprays for RC Cars

Here are our picks for the best silicone lubricant sprays to keep your RC vehicle running smoothly:

1. CRC Silicone Spray

• Versatile spray safe for plastic and rubber
• Provides long-lasting lubrication
• Prevents sticking, binding, and squeaking
• Protects against rust and corrosion
• High aerosol pressure for precision spraying

CRC Silicone Spray is one of the most popular all-purpose silicone lubricants. It’s safe for use on plastic and rubber so it can be used throughout your RC vehicle. The lubrication lasts a long time to keep parts moving freely. This silicone spray is a great budget-friendly option.

Pros:

• Versatile spray safe for plastic and rubber
• Provides long-lasting lubrication
• Prevents sticking, binding, and squeaking
• Protects against rust and corrosion

Cons:

• Can attract dirt if applied excessively
• Not as specialized for RCs as some brands

2. WD-40 Specialist Silicone Lubricant

• Creates a clean, dry, long-lasting lubricant film
• Helps improve performance of rubber parts
• Protects against dirt and dust buildup
• Prevents sticking, binding, and squeaking
• Safe for plastic, rubber, and metal

The WD-40 specialist line is designed for serious hobbyists. Their silicone lubricant leaves a non-sticky, durable coating that keeps parts operating smoothly. It’s a great option for frequent off-road use thanks to its excellent dust and dirt resistance.

Pros:

• Creates a clean, dry, long-lasting lubricant film
• Helps improve performance of rubber parts
• Protects against dirt and dust buildup

Cons:

• More expensive than some basic silicone sprays
• Can feel “greasy” until fully dried

3. Traxxas Silicone Spray

• Officially licensed by Traxxas RC manufacturer
• Provides high slip and low friction
• Ideal for air filters, foam tires, shocks, seals and more
• Prevents sticking and binding
• Protects against corrosion and water

You can trust Traxxas branded silicone spray to keep your Traxxas model running its best. It’s formulated specifically for RC use on parts like air filters, tires, shocks and seals. The ultra-slick silicone reduces friction while protecting against the elements.

Pros:

• Officially licensed by Traxxas RC manufacturer
• Provides high slip and low friction
• Ideal for air filters, foam tires, shocks, seals and more

Cons:

• Only available in one viscosity
• Small can size limits heavy use

4. Team Associated Silicone Shock Fluid

• Ideal viscosity for RC shock absorbers
• Allows fine tuning of shock action
• Improves dampening and rebound control
• Pre-filled syringe for easy filling of shocks
• official Team Associated factory shock fluid

For filling RC shocks, you can’t beat Team Associated’s own silicone shock fluid. It’s the ideal thickness and allows precise filling. This lets you tune your shocks’ dampening and rebound characteristics for improved handling. It comes in a pre-filled syringe for easy filling.

Pros:

• Ideal viscosity for RC shock absorbers
• Allows fine tuning of shock action
• Improves dampening and rebound control

Cons:

• Only useful specifically for filling shocks
• Requires disassembly to apply

5. Pro-Line Silicone Shock Oil

• Available in range of viscosities for customization
• Allows tuning shocks for different driving conditions
• Provides optimal stability and performance
• Official Pro-Line racing shock oil
• Compatible with all brands of RC shocks

Pro-Line makes a high-performance silicone shock oil perfect for dialing in your RC’s suspension. It’s available in a wide range of viscosities so you can customize the dampening precisely. Use thicker oil for jumps and rough terrain. Try thinner viscosities for on-road racing. It works great in all brands of shocks.

Pros:

• Available in range of viscosities for customization
• Allows tuning shocks for different driving conditions
• Provides optimal stability and performance

Cons:

• Not as widely available as some brands
• Multiple bottles needed to cover viscosity range

Tips for Applying Silicone Spray

To get the most from your silicone spray lubricant, follow these tips:

Proper Technique

• Always read the instructions and safety information first
• Shake the can well before each use
• Spray in short bursts instead of long sprays for better control
• Hold the can upright instead of sideways or upside down
• Wipe away any excess after application
• Allow silicone oil to fully set before reassembling

How Often to Reapply

• Monthly for light RC use
• Every couple of weeks for frequent driving
• Before and after running in wet conditions
• After cleaning your RC vehicle

Protecting Other Parts

• Avoid spraying near bearings or electronics
• Cover or mask off unrelated components
• Wipe away overspray immediately

Using the proper technique when applying your silicone spray will keep your RC performing at its best. Follow the usage tips specific to your product for best results.

FAQs

How often should I apply silicone spray to my RC car or truck?

Most silicone sprays should be reapplied every 1-2 months if you drive frequently. If it’s an occasional hobby, every 3-6 months is fine. Reapply anytime parts start to squeak or bind. Also reapply after running in wet/muddy conditions.

Where are the main areas I should use silicone spray on my RC vehicle?

The most common areas are shock shafts and springs, hinge pins, bearings, drive shafts, seals, O-rings, tires, and air filters. Refer to your user manual for all recommended lubrication points. Avoid electric motor internals.

Is silicone spray compatible with all the materials on my RC car?

Silicone is safe for most plastics, rubbers, foam tires, and metal parts. Avoid use near nylon components or bearings as it can cause swelling. Never apply to electronics. Always test a small area first if unsure about material compatibility.

How do I know if my silicone spray is waterproof or not?

Check the product description for keywords like “waterproof,” “rain/mud resistant,” or “all-weather.” Sprays promoted for outdoor sports equipment use are usually water-resistant formulas. Marine and boat silicones also repel water well.

Should I use silicone oil or grease for parts like drive shafts?

For internal rotating parts like driveshafts, silicone oils and sprays are preferred over greases. The spray/oil can penetrate evenly and fully coat the metal surface while greases are harder to evenly distribute inside shafts.

Conclusion

From shocks to seals, silicone spray is an essential RC car maintenance product. It provides long-lasting lubrication to keep parts moving freely while protecting against dirt. Choosing the right silicone comes down to your vehicle type, driving conditions, and budget. Any of our top picks will serve you well. Just remember to shake the can, spray judiciously, and reapply regularly. Keeping your ride lubricated with silicone will extend its life and handling.