how can i tell if my shocks are still "good"
 

i bought used koni's...how can i tell if they are still in perfect working order before i install them....any way to test them?

Simple test is to compress the shock, then watch it come back out. If you compress it, and it stays compressed and you have to pull it back out, it's definitely blown.

Check for signs of fluid leakage on the shock as well.

Koni's are pretty hardy shocks, so you'll probably be OK.

Dale

It's hard to be certain but dcfc3s explained the only way I know without a shock dyno.

FWIW the Koni can be completely revalved and rebuilt for about $150 each, which just happens to be about the same price you pay for new ones :p:

thanks for the responses guys...any ideas as to how i could compress the shocks?

You have to remove the springs from them and then just push the piston in. What you are hoping to see is the piston slowly rise back out on its own.

thanks!

i just tested my shocks...one of the fronts doesnt decompress...if i pull it even slightly it will but not on its own? Am i ok?
The other three compress and decompress smoothly.

you should replace the bad one.. ;)

so u think that it is bad b/c it doesnt decompress on its own?

The best way to test a shock is on a shock dyno and see if it meets spec. Race shops or places that rebuild shocks should have the equipment. Basically the shock dyno measures compression and rebound force over a certain distance of piston travel.

Mark

what is rebound? how much pressure when it extends?

if so then one of my shocks doesnt have any rebound....i push it in...and it wont extend on its own...is it blown?

well i just called koni....they say to test the shock i need to have them on full soft and it should re-extent..if not then i have a problem. i will retest tonigth.