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Post by mountainman on Feb 27, 2005 20:05:17 GMT -5
O.K. I went to pull the the front shock off the foreman to swap off the old springs and install the highlifter springs. I was under the impression that the factory springs will come off the shock but I can't figure out how. Any help would be great guys. Thanks, Steve  |
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Post by Foreman Rider on Feb 27, 2005 20:06:26 GMT -5
HL sells the spring tool. That might help.
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Post by mountainman on Feb 27, 2005 20:34:21 GMT -5
I know I can get the springs compressed ok. I was wondering how they come off the end of the shocks. Usually there is a collar that just slips off like on a snowmobile shock. I don't see one. Anybody have the procedure? Thanks,Steve
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Post by Jake on Feb 27, 2005 21:31:25 GMT -5
They're not like the ones you're thinking of. You have to compress and hold the spring, hold the shock rod (Which is threaded at the end), and unscrew the aluminum top piece of the shock from the rod.
I won't tell you it can't be done without the tool, but it's a chore, and at least a little and maybe very dangerous if you don't have your thinking cap on straight. For the price, you won't beat the tool.
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Post by mountainman on Feb 28, 2005 6:23:09 GMT -5
Excellent Jake. Thanks. That's exactly what I'm looking for.
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Post by MuddnMason on Mar 1, 2005 14:36:51 GMT -5
I just replaced the springs on Saturday using HL tool. I dont believe one person I can do it by themselves. I had a buddy of mine holding pressure on the spring while I loosened the locking nut and removed the end of the shock. It was a real pain, not to mention the springs dont fit just exactly right in the tool.
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Post by Jake on Mar 2, 2005 18:25:28 GMT -5
It's probably easier with help, but one person can definately do it. I did mine by myself, but I did have to use all three hands. ;D
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Post by mountainman on Mar 2, 2005 22:27:58 GMT -5
Thanks guys, I decided to send the springs back. I have chosen that if I get springs, I'm going to do it right and get shocks too with adjustable preloads. I think it's the weakest link with these foremans and hondas in general. The option to go to cush cush is greatly missed on these rocky trails here. Heading to St Johnsbury VT tomorrow to go snowmobiling for the next 3 days. Gotta "kick that pig"!
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Post by MuddnMason on Mar 4, 2005 20:16:59 GMT -5
The HL springs really are great. Not only do they give you a little bit of lift (did mine), but they give you more stability if you have a lift kit. Takes away most of the body roll. If I were you, I wouldgo ahead and put them on. Use what I have until they dont work anymore.
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Post by MuddnMason on Mar 4, 2005 20:19:31 GMT -5
... I did have to use all three hands. ;D I dont think I would want to get my third hand in the way of those springs...  |
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Post by mountainman on Mar 5, 2005 20:51:01 GMT -5
I think the main problem with these machines is that the valving is way to stiff on the rear shocks. I can get mine to only squat about 2 inches /if that when I jump on the back rack. About 200 lbs. worth of me. That is rediculously stiff. I may try to put a custom shock set-up on it to get an actual suspension. I am curious if the progressive suspension shocks (512's?) with the adjustable preloads will get it away from the cinder block feel it has now. Does anyone have these?
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