Low travel rear shock squeak

Rolling Thunder
Rolling Thunder Posts: 42
edited February 2010 in MTB workshop & tech
2 Questions:

I have a 2006 Manitou Radium RL rear shock that makes a squeaky noise when riding along the flat/fire road etc (even in lockout) but does not make it when it is absorbing hits (actual shock travel). Are the seals just dry? and does it just need a good lubing with red grease stuff or suitable PTFE liquid chain lube or does it need servicing??

If it needs servicing, for the price it would probably be better buying a new shock, would a RS Monarch 3.3 be an equivalent replacement or is it better than a Manitou RL?? Cheers.

Comments

  • nicklouse
    nicklouse Posts: 50,673
    remove it and check that the linkage(s) are not making the noise and then check the mounting hardware and DU bushes.

    and finally a drop of lube will not hurt.

    when was the last time the air canister was greased?
    SERVICE SCHEDULE
    Suggested Service for Manitou Rear Shocks
    Normal Conditions – Short / Infrequent Rides
    • Clean rear shock body after every ride.
    • Clean and re-grease air canister every 3 months (air shocks only).
    • Send to service center for oil change and inspection after every 150 hours
    of use.
    Normal Conditions – Long/Frequent Rides
    • Clean rear shock body after every ride.
    • Clean and re-grease air canister every 2 months (air shocks only).
    • Send to service center for oil change and inspection after every 150 hours
    of use.
    Severe Conditions (mud, rain, snow, extreme dust) –
    Short/ Infrequent Rides
    • Clean rear shock body after every ride.
    • Clean and re-grease air canister every 2 months (air shocks only).
    • Send to service center for oil change and inspection after every 150 hours
    of use.
    Severe Conditions (mud, rain, snow, extreme dust) –
    Long/Frequent Rides
    • Clean rear shock body after every ride.
    • Clean and re-grease air canister every month (air shocks only).
    • Send to service center for oil change and inspection after every 150 hours
    of use.
    "Do not follow where the path may lead, Go instead where there is no path, and Leave a Trail."
    Parktools :?:SheldonBrown
  • Rolling Thunder
    Rolling Thunder Posts: 42
    Im not very good at fixing bike stuff, so Ive never taken the shock off in 2 years, just kept everything clean and greased/lubed the shaft. I can probably unscrew the shock and clean/grease the hardware etc but i dont have a tool for measuring torque when tightening the hardware back up, is this nedded or is tightening stuff as far as it will go good enough?

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