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which way to mount aftermarket shocks?
After having issues with my Elka shocks(leaking oil and noisey clunking internal valving), I am searching for opinions about which is the best orientation to mount aftermarket shocks. I mounted my Elkas with the spring on the top. Now I am thinking it is better to mount them with the spring on the bottom. Here is my reasoning. With the spring mounted on top, the nitrogen gas will be accumulating near the piston seal, which could dry out while sitting and some nitrogen could leak out. With the shock mounted with the spring on the bottom. The oil will settle near the piston seal and have a lesser chance of leaking. Maybe I am overthinking this. I ordered new shocks and want to prevent the same issues I had with my Elkas.
SHOCK.jpg
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Elka says it makes no difference. But recommend spring down so you can get to the rebound adjustment easily.
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Very Active Member
Lamonster has a video of a tech from Elka putting shocks on, and exsplains how to adjust and what not, if your interested!
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Very Active Member
Elka shocks have the rebound adjuster at the bottom if you ever want to adjust them after install. Also, better to reduce un-sprung weight to the minimum.
'20 Spyder RT: Bajaron swaybar. Vredestein tires, Pedal Commander, Elka front shocks, GPS/USB/12V handlebar mount, Heli-Bars, Radar Detector, KOTT grills & vents, Shad top case, chin & DRL LEDs.
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I have mine installed with the rebound adjuster on the top and the schrader valve on the bottom. Springs on top
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Very Active Member
Originally Posted by Joel The Biker
After having issues with my Elka shocks(leaking oil and noisey clunking internal valving), I am searching for opinions about which is the best orientation to mount aftermarket shocks. I mounted my Elkas with the spring on the top. Now I am thinking it is better to mount them with the spring on the bottom. Here is my reasoning. With the spring mounted on top, the nitrogen gas will be accumulating near the piston seal, which could dry out while sitting and some nitrogen could leak out. With the shock mounted with the spring on the bottom. The oil will settle near the piston seal and have a lesser chance of leaking. Maybe I am overthinking this. I ordered new shocks and want to prevent the same issues I had with my Elkas.
SHOCK.jpg
Back in 09 I thought it didn't matter .... So after reversing mine on my 08 GS , I soon discovered that it destroyed the shock. Noy all shocks have internal seals that will allow this .... I learned the Hard way .... Your Elka's may be different . ... good luck .... Mike
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It depends
Joel -- Ikon says install with adjuster UP.
Due to differing shock designs, there is no general answer to your question. But for the simple gas springs used in our Spyder trunk, seat, etc the recommendation is body down so the nitrogen seal is lubricated. But then again the springs are cheap if you can't install them that way.
Last edited by Peter Aawen; 03-12-2022 at 11:16 PM.
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2014 Can-Am Spyder RT-S SE6 Freeway Commuter Pod
2016 Royal Enfield Classic 500 Fair-Weather Mountain Bike
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