Rear Shock piston rings

[TheFamilyGuy]

Hi everyone,

 

I recently took apart the rear shock on my 2002 Cr250 to at least inspect it and add new fluid and nitrogen. The shock was showing any signs of leaking oil and it seemed to have lots of dirty oil in it. I was wondering how to tell if the piston ring is worn out or not. When shinning a flash light and inspecting closely you can see gold metallic starting to show. My other question is do most people replace the bladder every time they take apart the shock? The reason I ask this is because its recommended in my honda manual. The bladder dosent show any signs of cracking or distortion in shape. 

 

Thanks 

[tom02cr250]

No you don't need to replace the bladder unless it's somehow bad. I've never replaced mine.

[GDI70]

You can inspect the bladder, and grease the lip where the cap is with some white lithium grease.

[mog]

On the piston you want it to be around 50.2mm,any less and it will have blow by ,it should be a smooth but tight fit in the bore

[TheFamilyGuy]

awesome thanks for the info everyone, much appreciated!

[GDI70]

Those earlier showa single oring piston bands wear much quicker than later models. You can get parts at Honda dealer.

[TheFamilyGuy]

I’m at 50.15mm, what do you think? 

[chadzu]

Replace it and save yourself any worry down the road.

[mog]

Right on the edge ,replace it

[TheFamilyGuy]

Ok I will order up a piston ring and o ring. How is everyone installing them? Are you using the cone style tool to slide them over or just working them on by hand?

[mog]

Hi Do a search ,it's been discussed how to do it without tools

[TheFamilyGuy]

Ok thanks