Damper models used in Multi Body Dynamics simulations of tracked vehicles are commonly defined solely by damper curves, that is stabilized damper reaction torque as a function of steady state velocity. In reality, the achievement of the stable reaction torque lags behind damper curve torque upon attainment of a given velocity. As detailed in this paper, the idealization to reduce damper performance to a “damper curve” cannot produce an accurate representation of the two primary terrains military vehicles are designed against: half-round and ride quality courses. By introducing “compliance” and “lash”, the damper performance can be accurately represented. With the slight extension of this model to a fully physics based one, future dampers can be designed to expand the operating performance envelope of tracked vehicles.