Shocks and shock pumps...

[AndreZA]

I just want to know, is is better to let the air out of your shocks just with your finger or using the shock pump's release valve/button. Does that oil/fluid that spurts out go into the pump and you can just pump it back in or is it just used to lube the pump from then on.

[Racer X]

I have a SID WC. The negative valve sits right above the rotor. I thus use the pump to let air out, this stops the rotor being lubricated. Otherwise a sheet of bog roll on top of my finger does the trick as well.

[Daxiet]

I use the pump, seems to be less messy and probably lubes the pump - bonus! Otherwise whip out your socket and repeat the application of gearbox oil . Seriously, I somehow think the pump stops the excessive loss of lube (you know you only have 5ml in your Fox, not much to go around)

[Saffa_G]

you should always use the shock pump to release the air.  The inside pieces of the valve can shoot out under releae of high pressure and be lost forever

[Johan Bornman]

It doesn't matter how you let the air out. It seems as if all reasons above to use the pump to do so are valid.

 

I've just read about a branch of medicine (probably just a little twig) where they treat a special type of industrial accident - the injection of hydraulic oil from high pressure sources directly into the skin. It immediately made me think of the zillions of forks I've deflated using my thumb nail. Apparently the oil easily penetrates the skin and causes subcutaneous problems that requires explorative surgery. My thumbs do look kinda fat lately.

 

I don't think our little forks and shocks have enough vooma to force oil through the skin, but it made me think nonetheless.

 

Just keep this little tip in mind next time you service a TLB.

 

In the same magazine I also read about another industrial hazard - exploded bowels from air hose pranks. I'll leave the details to your imagination, but apparently the victims don't imagine their deaths, it is real.

 

Speaking of violent events, two weeks ago I did a fork service workshop to cyclists in Gaborone. As usual, I start off with safety tips, most of which are ignored. This one guy ignored my suggestion that he first deflates his dual-air fork before taking off the air cap. His air piston shot 15 meters across the lapa, hitting a wall with force.

 

A new air piston costs R850-00.