On my 1996 Formula SL 500 with approx. 7,000 miles experienced the following:
After riding 80 miles (no huge bumps/jumps) I stopped at the gas station and noticed that the rear suspension did not return to it's normal height when I exited the machine. It was "frozen" in the down position. It looked like it was a "drag racing" snowmobile. I attempted to free it up but it wouldn't return to normal height. Not until spraying hot water from a car wash under the rear suspension did it slowly, and I mean slowly return to it's "normal" height. After putting the machine in my garage and turning up the heat, it still felt like the suspension was not as springy or forgiving.
After talking to some friends, they informed me that since I have NOT had ANY work done on the suspension (front or rear) ever, it may be time to replace the two rear shocks and the two front shocks. They also said that it may be possible to have moisture inside the shock and then it freezes in cold temps. and affects it's performace (binds up). However, when the temps. are above freezing (ie: spring/fall weather) you will not notice problems with the suspension.
Do you think it is time for me to replace the two rear shocks or only the rear most shock in the rear? Should I replace my springs?
And what about the front shocks while we are on topic. Replace them?
They also said that it may be possible to have moisture inside the shock and then it freezes in cold temps. and affects it's performace (binds up). However, when the temps. are above freezing (ie: spring/fall weather) you will not notice problems with the suspension.
Thanks in advance for your help.[/b]
Yep water in the shocks time for new shocks
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I would agree , water in the shock. Fishog had that happen 5 or 6 years ago on his AC. It was amazing how it could freeze in such a compressed position. That is why it is so important to wash your sled after you drag it home on the salty highways. Once the shock shaft gets pitted(rust) the seals will be gone shortly after. Also part of the reason we bought our second covered trailer. I will never own a sled without owning a covered trailer. It seems like a lot initially but in the end, when you add up money saved on covers and car washes, and the increased resale value, it probably doesn't cost anything to own a covered trailer.
