Checking a standard rear shock

[Ant]

Managed to get the spring taken off the rear shock today. Has anyone got any tips on how to check the damper now the springs off?

The damper rod looks all good, no pitting and no leaks but it seams really hard to push down is that normal?

NB this is probably just a paranoia post!

[sirch345]

That's not something I have really taken any notice of.
Anyway a quick run up to my workshop to check has revealed that my standard Storm shock minus it's spring does take a fair amount of force to compress it, then once compressed to my surprise it extends back to full length all on it's own under control,

HTH's

Chris.

[Ant]

Cheers Chris,

Thanks for checking. I was supprised when it sprang back as well. You'd think the spring would have that covered.....

Can now get the spring coated and reassembled.

[E.Marquez]

It is a sealed and listed as non repairable item, though technically it can be opened op and serviced, just takes adding a charge port. (EDIT.. just to be clear "just" was an understatement, you JUST have to find and mark the correct spot, drill and tap and then install a schrader type valve rated at 300 psi or more.)
Not much to check though.
As you noted, no oil leaks, no pitting on the rod.
The shock should exstend fully at a moderate rate (with no spring mounted)
The spherical rod end should move freely (not loose, but move with moderate effort), no stiffness, catches

[Ant]

Cheers marquez, I'll give that a check. Ant

[sirch345]

Cheers Chris,

You'd think the spring would have that covered.....

Yes, that was what I was expecting,

Chris.

[E.Marquez]

Cheers Chris,

You'd think the spring would have that covered.....

Yes, that was what I was expecting,

Chris.

Shock is charged with nitrogen, helps keep the fluid from foaming in use. Also is part of the overall preload.

[sirch345]

Cheers Chris,

You'd think the spring would have that covered.....

Yes, that was what I was expecting,

Chris.

Shock is charged with nitrogen, helps keep the fluid from foaming in use. Also is part of the overall preload.

That makes sense

Chris.

[Ant]

Ahh that makes a lot of sense! Cheers marquez.

[VTRDark]

You'd think the spring would have that covered...

But then it would be uncontrolled and behave like an ejector seat. The spring is more for damping than rebound.