Rear shock goes off once hot

stevo123 · Nitrous Nuisance Joined: 10 Aug 2004 Karma :

It's obvious to me that when a damper is worked it heats up the oil inside making it thinner and reducing damping. However once above 45 degrees centigrade (or there about) the rear damper on my 2006 zx6r just gives up on life. I have it set to defaults plus a bit more to match what I want from it and when it is cold it's lovely.

So after that ramble my question, is the rapid and very noticeable drop off in performance normal (doubtful) and if not would a rebuild help the situation - I know they have nitrogen inside and I have not dicked with the valve on the side of the reservoir in case you're wondering.

Any advice would be welcome. Thanks,
Steve

xX-Alex-Xx · World Chat Champion Joined: 12 Sep 2019 Karma :

When was it last serviced? Might be a good time for it.
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stevo123 · Nitrous Nuisance Joined: 10 Aug 2004 Karma :

Probably never. I was hoping to find out if a service would help the problem. Guess it certainly cant hurt it though, you're right.

Thanks

Old Git Racing · World Chat Champion Joined: 08 Aug 2009 Karma :

Is the sag set correctly? if not it may be overworking. Probably a good idea to have it serviced anyway or fit an aftermarket shock.

OGR
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jeffyjeff · World Chat Champion Joined: 02 May 2020 Karma :

You might consider fabricating a spring compressor and disassemble the unit to check the dampening action of the shock itself. It should be relatively easy to heat it up to 45 degrees for testing. Unless it is a high end shock absorber, replacement is probably the fastest and least expensive fix.
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Pigeon · World Chat Champion Joined: 27 Sep 2012 Karma :

At 20k my KYB Dayonta shock would just sit on its arse after 30 miles.

Bladder pressure was down from circa 150psi to 50psi

Can't say if it was that or the oil that mainly caused the issue.
But switching to Dexron 6 fully synth + 150PSI bladder fixed it......actually the oil is a bit thick, had to button off the comp damping 2/3.

But at least it'll hoon 150 miles and not drag its arse.

stevo123 · Nitrous Nuisance Joined: 10 Aug 2004 Karma :

Thanks guys, some good suggestions there