How to lubricate shock absorbers on a bicycle. What kind of oil is poured into shock absorbers? Caring for your fork is the key to its “health”

The most popular and cheapest shock absorber is spring-elastomer. This shock absorber is very simple in design: a polymer rod is inserted inside a steel spring, which dampens vibrations.

The second type is oil-spring, more modern and reliable. Due to its relative cheapness and simplicity of design, it has become one of the most common in cycling.

And the third type is oil-air. It uses a compressed air cylinder instead of a spring. Due to the complexity of the design, it is better to repair them in specialized workshops, where they know exactly how to lubricate shock absorbers on a bicycle.

Shock absorber lubrication

A poorly lubricated and out-of-adjustment mechanism can not only produce an unpleasant sound, but also make it difficult to control the bicycle, spoiling all the fun of sports. The ideal option is to clean the external parts of the bicycle fork after each ride, and at least once a season to lubricate the internal parts of the mechanism. The easiest way is to take the bike to a workshop whose master knows exactly what needs to be done, but experienced cyclists can try it themselves.

Spring and spring-elastomeric shock absorbers can be lubricated without disassembling the bicycle fork. To do this, lubricant is drawn into a syringe and poured under the boot. After this, the bike should be “rocked” and excess oil should be removed with a napkin. But! This is a fast, hiking option, used when it is not possible to disassemble the bike even partially. According to the rules, you should first unscrew the mounting bolts from the bottom, then unscrew the Preload bolt, remove the elastomer and spring, unscrew the mounting bolts and remove the “pants,” that is, the part of the bicycle fork to which the wheel is attached. This is where the most dirt is found and this is the part that most often needs repairs. The anthers are taken out of the last part (they can be easily picked up with a screwdriver).

All parts must be cleaned of road dirt and oil residues. Experts recommend using exclusively branded lubricant or using universal Teflon lubricant. After this, you should lubricate the parts and assemble the fork back.

Maintenance of the oil-spring design is also simple. If the open oil bath method is used, then the oil can simply be drained and the parts cleaned. This system is perhaps the easiest to maintain, and inspection and minor repairs can be performed even at home. Things are a little more complicated with a closed oil bath. The oil in this design is in a capsule and changes along with the entire capsule. Unlike the first option, a closed oil bath often requires more maintenance.

The oil-air shock absorber is considered the most demanding to maintain. To clean and lubricate it, you need to:

• Unscrew and wash the shock absorber. This will prevent debris from entering the air chamber;
• Open the valves and release the pressure. If everything is done correctly, the mechanism will easily compress and unclench;
• Next, the mounting parts are removed from the shock absorber, and the air chamber itself is disassembled;
• Then you should remove the oil seal. If any parts are damaged, it’s time to replace them or make other repairs. If everything is intact, then old grease and mechanical impurities are removed, and you can begin assembling the bicycle fork;
• Fork oil is poured onto the shock absorber body, placed vertically. Gaskets and seals are installed in place. The air chamber is pushed all the way so that no air escapes from it. It is better to add a little more oil, and only then screw it back to the shock absorber body;
• Next, the shock absorber is inflated to the required pressure and installed in place.

Motorists have a saying: “The car loves affection, cleanliness and lubrication.” The same can be said for a bicycle, although it requires much less maintenance. If you know how to lubricate shock absorbers on a bicycle, then this procedure will not seem long or laborious at all, and the iron horse can run for many seasons without repair.

Any owner of a two-wheeled bike, sooner or later, is faced with the fact that the rear shock absorber for a bicycle begins to creak. This problem can occur for various reasons. To identify the exact location of the noise, you should listen carefully to the sounds, not forgetting to examine the frame itself for defects. As a rule, squeaks occur due to the lack of lubricant in the problem area due to its drying out. In addition, a malfunction may occur due to the installation of non-original parts, loose fastenings, or deposits of dust and dirt.

The rear shock absorber on a bicycle creaks: what to do?

This complex part includes a lot of different elements. The first thing to do when extraneous noise appears is to disassemble the assembly and check for the presence of lubricant. If it dries, a new layer must be applied. Before doing this, be sure to rinse and dry all parts. Then the rear shock absorber for the bicycle is assembled in reverse order. This procedure allows you to improve the smooth interaction of elements, extending their service life. Universal Teflon lubricant is suitable for all types of bikes. Also, if you notice squeaks, have the fork inspected, as this is often the problem.

The majority of shock absorbers have settings, the correct adjustment of which makes it possible to better control control and speed when driving. In addition, wear on the unit is reduced. Let's consider the sequence and features of this operation.

How to adjust the rear shock absorber on a bicycle?

This process requires consideration of three primary controls. The first of these is preload. This parameter represents the resistance received by the fork under the weight of the rider. Accordingly, the greater the mass, the higher the degree of preload should be. For elements with a spiral spring, this means an increase or decrease in elasticity, and for pneumatic analogues, more pressure.

The second point is the compression damping, which arises from the inside of the shock absorber, is responsible for regulating the flow of lubricant through special holes. This indicator affects the assembly during compression without affecting the preload. The more pressure applied, the more difficult it will be to control the bike.

Finally, there is recoil damping (similar to an internal compression system). This moment affects the rear shock absorber on the bicycle only during its return to the starting position. If this parameter is increased excessively, the fork will settle into its position more slowly. This solution is appropriate when the bike has significant resistance, especially on bumps and turns.

Setting the preload

It is best to carry out this work together, but it is quite possible for one person to do it. The first thing to measure is the internal part, which is a shiny element that moves in the middle of the body. Divide the resulting value by 4. For optimal functionality, a 25% sag is required. On downhill mountain bikes this parameter can be 30%.

Almost any modern rear shock absorber for a bicycle is equipped with a small inflatable ring or a special stopper that serves to control subsidence. If there is no such element, you can tie an elastic band. It is not recommended to use a cable for this, which collects dirt and scratches the surface. As a result, you may need not only repairs, but also replacement of the rear shock absorber on your bicycle. The compression damping switch is set to descent mode, the ring is removed, and the bike is carefully placed on a flat surface. After this, you should take the riding position. To correctly select a constant weight, try not to shake the bike during the procedure.

Peculiarities

Carefully check the degree of subsidence by observing the distance the ring moves. If the reading is more or less than a quarter length, start adjusting the psi. Typically on air shocks, 25% sag will produce 150-200 psi.

On the helical counterparts, minor adjustments are made using preload discs. Depending on the weight of the rider, correct adjustment may require a coil with a higher or lower elasticity index. They are available to purchase in specialized stores.

Compression and Damping

The rear shock absorber for a bicycle, depending on the modification, is equipped with a CTD type switch or suspension (damping) settings. In the first case, it is enough to adjust the element according to the surrounding landscape.

If there are settings, proceed as follows:

• Pay attention to the number of adjustment range modes. To do this, scroll the disk forward and backward, counting the clicks made.
• If you don't want to experiment with finding the optimal value, set the dial to the average value.
• Extreme parameters are very rarely suitable for athletes.
• When driving, remember the route and the required settings to determine how the suspension functions.

Lubrication

How to lubricate the rear shock absorber on a bicycle? There are no particular difficulties in this process. Oil is poured into the fork, and liquid lubricant is placed directly into the shock absorbing element. The shock absorber is first disassembled, all parts are washed and thoroughly dried. Then a layer of suitable lubricant is applied, after which the assembly is assembled.

If the problem is squeaking in the fork, disassemble the part as follows:

• The element is cleaned and the wheel is dismantled.
• Unscrew the bolts holding the fork in the rods and remove the regulator.
• Next, remove the brake system.
• The remains of the old lubricant are removed from the rods.
• Dismantle the stuffing box rings.
• The internal cavities of the fork are thoroughly wiped.
• Thick lubricant is applied to the oil seals, and oil is poured into the element pants.
• Reassemble the unit in the reverse order.

As experts recommend, to maintain the bike in optimal condition, it is advisable to lubricate the shock absorbers every day when riding in the rain and once a week if the weather is sunny. As processing materials, use special aerosol sprays, oil recommended by the manufacturer, or universal Teflon grease.

Finally

Above we looked at why the rear shock absorber on a bicycle creaks and how to solve this problem. Timely lubrication will extend the life of parts, improve ride comfort and eliminate extraneous noise. Following these recommendations, it is also easy to make the correct adjustment of the shock absorber, which optimizes the moving process, depending on the weight of the cyclist and the characteristics of the road being used.

In the section on the question How to lubricate shock absorbers on a bicycle asked by the author Pr1vat the best answer is Regular shock absorber maintenance
The front shock absorber, regardless of its internal structure, requires regular maintenance. Clean the fork legs and boots of dirt regularly, after each ride. For minor dirt in dry weather - once a week as a preventive measure. To clean, use water, liquid soap and a brush. In some cases, you can use aerosol Teflon lubricant. When cleaning the fork boots, be careful not to damage the compression spring. After cleaning, thoroughly wipe the fork to remove any moisture or grease. Apply a small amount of Teflon grease to the fork legs near the seals, let the volatile component evaporate, lock the front brake and vigorously press the steering wheel several times so that the grease penetrates inside the boots. Then carefully remove any remaining grease. When operating in the off-season, it is recommended to use silicone lubricants or transparent greases.
(without *)
What oils should be used to lubricate a bicycle?
There are several types of oils.
According to experts, for an entry-level bicycle, lithium lubricants are the best choice, because these bicycles have few parts made of aluminum alloys, and such bicycles are usually used in fairly clean and dry conditions.
For owners of cheap bicycles, a very important criterion when choosing a lubricant is its price, which is unrivaled for lithium lubricants. LITOL-24, CIATIM-201 can be purchased at any auto parts store, where they are very inexpensive.
For expensive bicycles, it makes sense to use calcium oils because they do not react chemically with aluminum alloys and are not easily washed out by water.

In this article we will analyze the principle of operation of the shock absorber of a washing machine, find out why this part is needed and how to repair it if necessary. Depending on the brand of the washer, these parts may have their own characteristics.

What are shock absorbers used for? They dampen machine vibrations during operation, so they are located under the tank. When spinning at high speeds, the drum rotates quickly, and the MCA begins to vibrate strongly. If there were no shock-absorbing effect, she would jump in place.

More modern SM models use dampers. Let's see what the differences are between these shock-absorbing parts.

Before replacing shock absorbers in a washing machine, let’s look at their structure:

• cylinder;
• return spring;
• piston with rods;
• gaskets

Now let's move on to the shock absorber damper of the washing machine. The element is the same cylindrical structure, only without springs. In this case, the washing machine tank is suspended on springs. This feature contributes to better vibration damping, which is why it is used everywhere in new models.

How to independently check the proper operation of shock absorbers? First, pay attention to the characteristic signs of breakdown:

• If the part is poorly lubricated, the drum begins to rotate slowly.
• Producing high speeds, the washing machine makes a lot of noise, knocks, and vibrates.

Secondly, diagnose the shock absorbers for the washing machine. How to do it yourself:

What caused the problem:

• Wear of gaskets due to frequent use.
• Defective parts, improper transportation of the machine.
• The rod that secures the shock absorber is faulty.

No matter what kind of breakdown occurs, it is important to know how to restore the shock absorber in a washing machine with your own hands. Read about it below.

Let's find out how to get to the damper. Proceed as follows:

• Let's assume you've already removed the top cover.
• Turn off the water supply and disconnect the inlet hose from the housing. There may be water in it, so prepare a container to drain it in advance.
• Now you need to remove the front panel. To do this, pull out the dispenser tray: press the latch in the center and pull the tray towards you.
• Remove the screws that secure the control panel. Two or three bolts are located behind the tray and on the opposite side.
• Release the plastic latches.

• Take a photo of the location of the wires on the panel and disconnect them or place the panel on top of the CMA body.
• Open the hatch door. Having bent the sealing rubber, use a screwdriver to pry up the metal clamp and remove it.

• Tuck the cuff inside the drum.
• Unscrew the hatch lock bolts (UBL).
• Disconnect the wiring from the locking device and pull it out.
• Unlock the panel latches at the bottom where the drain filter is located and set it aside.
• Unscrew the screws securing the front panel and remove it.

At the bottom of the tank you will notice two dampers. They are usually fastened with plastic rods on top and bolts on the bottom. How to remove the shock absorber from a washing machine:

• Place a nut on the back side of the rod mount to disable the latch.
• Grasp the rod with pliers and pull it towards you.
• Now unscrew the bolt at the bottom.

Some users are wondering: how to check shock absorbers when purchasing? Same as when replacing. Squeeze and unclench the part in your hand: if this is difficult to do, then the product is working properly. If you compress the shock absorber easily, it needs replacement.

Note! Even if only one damper is faulty, both need to be replaced at once.

How can you repair a shock absorber in a washing machine with your own hands? First, pull out the insert that slows down the movement of the rod. If the rod moves easily and quickly, the insert (gasket) is most likely worn out. To replace it:

• Take a 3mm thick belt.
• Measure the length according to the diameter of the hole.

• Insert the cut piece of the belt into the place of the seal so that the edges fit tightly together.
• Before installing the rod, you need to lubricate the part to reduce friction. If you don’t know how to lubricate the shock absorbers of your washing machine, use regular lubricant oil.
• Install the stem. Now you know how to fix the shock absorber of a washing machine.

For more information about the repair, watch the video:

Parts may vary between different SM models, so don’t buy at random. In the store, tell the salesperson the brand and model of the washing machine, and he will offer you the appropriate items. Or go shopping with an old damper. Be sure to select the appropriate spare part before replacing the shock absorbers on your washing machine.

Another difficulty. In some washing machine models, in order to remove the dampers, you will have to pull out the tank with the drum.

To install, insert the rods first, securing the top. Then tighten the bolt at the bottom and assemble the machine. The renovation is complete. Having figured out how to change and check the shock absorber on a washing machine, you can begin to work on your own. Buy new parts or repair old ones - the choice is yours. The video will help you:

Proper operation of shock absorbers is the key to a comfortable and safer ride. If there is a lack of oil in this suspension part, the braking distance becomes longer and repairs are required more often. Which oil to choose for shock absorbers?

Why do you need to change shock absorber oil?

The main function of shock absorbers is to dampen vibrations while driving. If you change the oil in the suspension parts in a timely manner, the movement of the car will be softer and smoother. When cornering, the car will also be more stable, and the grip of the tires on the road will be better.

If the shock absorber malfunctions, the hubs and bearings are partially destroyed, and the tires wear unevenly. Sometimes the tires completely lose traction, which can lead to an accident.
The performance of shock absorbers is greatly influenced by the consistency of the fluid and its quantity. Parts with and without a membrane require different amounts of mixture. A suspension element with a membrane separates air and oil with a rubber diaphragm. If the liquid is filled excessively, there is no air space left in the part. As a result, the shock-absorbing element is unstable.
Parts without a membrane do not have an air layer, so the oxygen for the full stroke of the rod is in the mass of oily liquid. As the rod enters, the viscosity of the oil decreases. With a lack or excess of oil, the operation of the shock absorber will be unstable.

How to pour lubricant into the device that is responsible for damping vibrations while driving?

If fluid leaks from this suspension element, the part most likely needs to be replaced. While driving, you can hear a knock characteristic of this part. This may also indicate problems with the shock absorber due to lack of oil, but more often the problem lies in aggressive driving.

What kind of oil should I pour into the shock absorber?

Knowing what problems can arise if the fluid in the shock absorber is not replaced in a timely manner, drivers think about which product to buy.

Manufacturers of lubricant mixtures indicate the degree of viscosity on product packaging. The buyer should focus on these indicators, since each region has individual temperature and weather conditions.

Also, when choosing a lubricant, be sure to take into account that the thick mixture is ideal for roads without significant damage. The car loses maneuverability when driving on roads with a large number of potholes and uneven asphalt.

Oily consistency

The viscous fluid in the shock absorbers allows for excellent vehicle control at speed. The vehicle may be more stable when making sharp turns during normal driving.

• when driving aggressively and quickly, a car with thin oil is less stable in turns than with thick oil;
• Due to the accelerated operation of the suspension, traction on the road is improved;
• a car with this type of oil for suspension parts is more maneuverable and controllable;
• the effect of the oil mixture on the shock absorber allows you to move the weight of the car faster;
• The liquid consistency is suitable for driving on uneven roads, so it is recommended for SUVs.

Some drivers use waste fluid from the transmission. Temporarily such a replacement may help. However, experts recommend using new ATF, GRZh-12, MGP-12 or other shock absorber fluid. If the region is characterized by frost, transmission fluid with a viscosity level of 75W is ideal for the suspension part.

Some shock absorber oil mixtures contain silicone. The viscosity of such fluids is somewhat different from ATF. It is measured in cPs. This figure is approximately equal to cSt and almost 10 times less than the generally accepted WT. So 250 cPs=23.5 wt, and 350 cPs=30 wt.

Active oil additives can soften the gum. Therefore, oils containing large amounts of additives are not suitable for shock absorbers.
After purchasing the right oil, when filling a given suspension element, people make the main mistake: adding the wrong amount of fluid. How much is required?

How much oil do you fill?

For most parts without anti-breakdown, high precision when filling with oil is not required. However, too little mixture results in very deep IFP. This creates knocking and damage to the shock absorber. When the part was overfilled with liquid, in some cases drivers had the cap of the expansion tank knocked out.

Parts with anti-breakdown require high precision when pouring liquid. Moreover, the more positions the shock absorber has against breakdowns, the more important the accuracy. If there is not enough oil, the anti-breakdown may stop functioning, and too much oil leads to complete failure of the part.

Usually no more than a quarter liter of liquid is poured into this part. Only 100 ml is poured into the parts of some models. It all depends on:

1. Rod diameter. To determine it, you should use a compass to measure the thickness and diameter of the part.
2. The stroke of the rod is measured in mm. It is determined by measuring the length of the part protruding from the shock absorber body.
3. IFP diameter. It is equal to the internal diameter of the expansion tank. Accordingly, to determine the IFP diameter, some drivers measure the inside of the tank.
4. Areas of the rod and piston.
5. The amount of movement of the IFP during shock absorber operation.
6. IFP depths. The deeper it is, the less filled the shock absorber is.

Knowing all these factors, you can easily determine exactly how much lubricant should be poured into the suspension part.

How to properly pour lubricant into a shock-absorbing device?

And a little about the author's secrets

My life is not only connected with cars, but with repairs and maintenance.

But I also have hobbies like all men. My hobby is fishing.

I started a personal blog in which I share my experience. I try a lot of things, different methods and methods to increase my catch. If interested, you can read it. Nothing extra, just my personal experience.