Decoding the Silver Shroud: A Guide to Kent Connolly’s Armor Upgrades in Fallout 4

So, you’re rocking the Silver Shroud armor in Fallout 4 and want to know how long it takes Kent Connolly to upgrade it? The answer, frustratingly, isn’t about in-game time. It depends entirely on your character’s level and whether you’ve avoided some crucial quest-breaking bugs. If you meet the level requirements and Kent survives the Silver Shroud questline, he’ll upgrade your armor immediately upon speaking with him. There’s no waiting period beyond that. However, the conditions that need to be met can be tricky, often making the process seem much longer than it actually is. Let’s dive into the details of these conditions and how to make sure Kent is always ready to help you.

Understanding the Upgrade Mechanics

Kent’s armor upgrades aren’t tied to any in-game timers. He doesn’t need time to “work” on the armor. Instead, the upgrades are unlocked when your character reaches specific levels:

• Initial Upgrade (Unlocks at Level 25): After completing the Silver Shroud quest and saving Kent, this first upgrade is usually available right away, assuming you’re at the right level.
• Second Upgrade (Unlocks at Level 35): This brings the armor’s defenses up to 70. If you are already past level 35 after finishing the quest, Kent will make the first and second upgrade at the same time.
• Final Upgrade (Unlocks at Level 45): The last upgrade pushes the armor’s protection to 87. Again, it’s available immediately upon reaching this level and talking to Kent.

The critical point is that the game checks your level at the time you interact with Kent after completing the quest. If you’re below level 25 initially, you’ll have to level up to trigger the first upgrade and then keep returning for each additional upgrade as you level up further. The armor’s stat boosts make it a great choice throughout the game, especially if you use dialogue and role-playing to the fullest.

The Infamous Level 45+ Bug (and other glitches!)

Here’s where things get complicated. The article you provided highlights a common bug:

• The Level 45+ Glitch: If you complete the Silver Shroud quest at level 45 or higher, Kent might not offer any upgrades until you reach level 100! This is a known issue, and it stems from the game’s internal scripting getting confused. This can also happen if you are below Level 45, so be careful regardless of your level.

• Radio Silence: Another bug involves Kent not turning on the Silver Shroud radio after the quest, which is necessary to receive new radiant quests and further engage with the Shroud persona. If the radio does not turn on, you might be unable to upgrade the armor.

Possible Fixes:

• Console Commands (PC Only): If you’re on PC, you can try using the console command set MS04ArmorLevel to 45. This can sometimes reset the upgrade trigger. Save before attempting this, as console commands can sometimes have unintended consequences.
• Reloading an Earlier Save: This is often the most reliable solution. If you have a save from before completing the Silver Shroud quest, reload it and try completing the quest at a lower level. Ideally, finish the quest around level 25-30 and then level up naturally, returning to Kent after each milestone.
• Push Kent: If Kent gets stuck in the Milton General Hospital after you have completed the Silver Shroud quest, use console command 228ac. moveto 228a6 to move him to Irma in Goodneighbor. Alternatively, push him to the first elevator and he’ll then make his way back to Goodneighbor.

The Importance of Saving Kent Connolly

This cannot be stressed enough: Kent must survive the quest to upgrade your armor. If he dies, you’re out of luck. Saving him can be tricky, but here are a few tips:

• Speech Checks: Utilize the Silver Shroud dialogue options. Successfully passing these checks can often defuse the situation and save Kent.
• One-Shot Sinjin: If speech fails, you need to eliminate Sinjin immediately. Lower the difficulty for this fight and use VATS to target Sinjin’s head with a powerful weapon (sniper rifle, high-damage pistol). Prioritize damage output over anything else.
• Avoid Explosives: AOE damage from explosives can easily kill Kent, even if you take out Sinjin.

Leveling Up the Silver Shroud Armor: A Summary

To recap: there is no specific amount of time to wait.

1. Complete the Silver Shroud Quest Line
2. Save Kent Connolly to proceed to the next step.
3. Reach levels 25, 35, and 45 to unlock armor upgrades.
4. Talk to Kent at the Memory Den to trigger upgrades as soon as those level breakpoints are hit.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What happens if I accidentally kill Kent?

If Kent dies during the Silver Shroud quest or at any other time, you cannot upgrade the Silver Shroud armor. He is the only NPC who can perform these upgrades. Load an earlier save if possible.

2. Can I upgrade the armor myself at a workbench?

No, the Silver Shroud armor can only be upgraded by Kent Connolly. It’s unique in this aspect.

3. Does it matter what dialogue choices I make during the Silver Shroud quest?

Yes, choosing dialogue options that align with the Silver Shroud persona can unlock special dialogue checks that can help you save Kent.

4. Is the Silver Shroud armor worth upgrading?

Absolutely! Fully upgraded, it provides excellent protection (87/87) and adds to the role-playing experience. It’s a great option for players who enjoy the questline.

5. Can I get the Silver Shroud armor without doing the quest?

No, the armor is exclusively obtained through completing the Silver Shroud quest in Goodneighbor.

6. What is the best strategy for saving Kent from Sinjin?

Lower the difficulty, use VATS, and aim for a headshot on Sinjin with a powerful, accurate weapon. Avoid explosives at all costs.

7. How do I know if Kent is bugged and won’t upgrade my armor?

If you are above the required level (25, 35, or 45), have completed the quest, and Kent is still alive but doesn’t offer the upgrade dialogue, you may be experiencing the level 45+ bug.

8. Does my relationship with Hancock affect Kent’s ability to upgrade the armor?

No, your relationship with Hancock or any other companion doesn’t influence Kent’s upgrade ability.

9. What are the stats of the Silver Shroud armor at each upgrade level?

• Base: Ballistic Resistance: 37, Energy Resistance: 37, Radiation Resistance: 0
• First Upgrade (Level 25): Ballistic Resistance: 47, Energy Resistance: 47, Radiation Resistance: 0
• Second Upgrade (Level 35): Ballistic Resistance: 70, Energy Resistance: 70, Radiation Resistance: 0
• Final Upgrade (Level 45): Ballistic Resistance: 87, Energy Resistance: 87, Radiation Resistance: 0

10. Can I get rid of the Silver Shroud armor after completing the quest?

Yes, but you need to finish Kent’s related quest. Afterward, it can be stored or sold like any other item.

11. Where does Kent go after the Silver Shroud quest?

Kent will usually be in the Memory Den in Goodneighbor, in his room. If he is not there, he might be stuck in Milton General Hospital.

12. What voice actor plays Kent Connolly?

Jay Giannone voices Kent Connolly in Fallout 4.

13. What is the best armor in Fallout 4 besides the Silver Shroud armor?

The Marine Armor set (from the Far Harbor DLC) and various Power Armor sets (X-01, T-60) are considered among the best, depending on your build and playstyle.

14. Is there a level cap in Fallout 4?

While there isn’t a formal level cap, the game can become unstable at extremely high levels (around 65,535). Realistically, there’s no point in leveling beyond 300.

15. Does difficulty affect my ability to save Kent?

Yes, reducing the difficulty can make the fight against Sinjin easier, increasing your chances of saving Kent.

The Silver Shroud quest in Fallout 4 is a rewarding experience, especially for role-playing enthusiasts. By understanding the upgrade mechanics and taking steps to avoid common bugs, you can fully enjoy the benefits of the Silver Shroud armor and bring justice to the Commonwealth!