Quick answer
For most VS4-10 builders, the aluminum shock tower is a worthwhile upgrade if you want a stiffer, more durable mount with the ability to fine-tune ride height using extended versions. Stick with the stock molded tower if you are on a tight budget or building a light-duty crawler where weight savings matter more.
Why material matters for shock towers
The shock tower is a structural link between your suspension and chassis. Under hard articulation or repeated impacts, a molded plastic tower can flex, allowing the shock angle to shift. Aluminum eliminates that flex, keeping your suspension geometry consistent. The trade-off is weight: aluminum adds a small amount of mass high up on the chassis, which can affect center of gravity in extreme builds.
Stock tower advantages you might overlook
The molded tower that ships with the VS4-10 kit is lightweight and perfectly functional for scale trail running. It is also less expensive to replace if damaged. For builders who prioritize low weight over absolute rigidity, or who do not push their rig hard enough to induce flex, the stock part remains a sensible choice. The real question is whether you need the extended height options that only the aluminum version offers.
Trade-offs at a glance
- Aluminum shock tower: Machined from aluminum with an anodized finish. Direct replacement for the stock molded tower. Extended version available for fine-tuning ride height. Choose aluminum if you want a stiffer mount and the ability to adjust ride height with extended towers.
- Stock molded tower: Included with the VS4-10 chassis. Lighter than aluminum, zero added cost, and sufficient for scale trail driving and light crawling. Stick with stock if you are on a budget, building a lightweight rig, or do not need ride-height adjustability.
- Extended vs standard height: The aluminum tower is sold in both standard and extended versions. The extended version changes the shock mounting position, which alters ride height and suspension leverage. Decide on height before ordering; the standard aluminum tower matches the stock geometry while the extended version offers tuning range.
Product facts
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VS4-10 Aluminum Shock Tower: Vanquish VS4-10 Machined Aluminum shock towers are a replacement for the molded tower included with the VS4-10 chassis. They are available in an extended version to fine-tune ride height and setup using a combination of heights. The extended option lets you adjust ride height independently of shock length, which is useful for tuning articulation or lowering the center of gravity without swapping springs.
VS4-10 Aluminum Shock Tower
Which should you choose?
Best for
- Builders who want a stiffer, more durable shock mount for competition or heavy crawling
- Enthusiasts who need to fine-tune ride height using extended towers
Not for
- Budget-conscious builds where the free stock tower is sufficient
- Ultra-lightweight or scale-focused rigs that prioritize low mass over rigidity
