[gdpolk]

I have a 2003 Marzocchi Marathon SL fork that uses air for both the positive and negative pressures. Last time I aired it up was a few months ago and I took it out on a ride last week and it had lost most of the air pressure making it extremely easy to bottom out and making it's suspension benifits negligable. What could be the most likely source of the problem and how should I go about fixing it?

Also, I don't know if it is related or not but the fork does spit out a very small amount of oil when you disconnect the air pump from the positive air valve and has done so for over a year but until today I haven't had any problems with the fork and the LBS said as long as problems didn't occur then it shouldn't be too bad. Maybe this is related, maybe not.

 

[Bikesair]

Air leaks out of the forks over time and 'a few months' is quite a long time. Especially when the fork sits, the seals become dry and air can escape. It's normal behavior. The manual suggests you check the air pressure before every ride and I almost do. Most people agree on at least checking your air pressure weekly.

As for the oil coming out of the fork that is normal too. There is oil inside the system and a bit escapes every time you open the system.

I would suggest rebuilding your fork if it has not been done this year. If your very nice to your bike you may even send them into marzocchi for a nice full service. New oil in the damping side and in the air cartridge.

 

[johnlh]

I have a 2003 Marzocchi Marathon SL fork that uses air for both the positive and negative pressures. Last time I aired it up was a few months ago and I took it out on a ride last week and it had lost most of the air pressure making it extremely easy to bottom out and making it's suspension benifits negligable. What could be the most likely source of the problem and how should I go about fixing it?

Also, I don't know if it is related or not but the fork does spit out a very small amount of oil when you disconnect the air pump from the positive air valve and has done so for over a year but until today I haven't had any problems with the fork and the LBS said as long as problems didn't occur then it shouldn't be too bad. Maybe this is related, maybe not.

I HAVE THE SAME PROBLEM

 

[mtbcraig]

Marathon SL leaking

I Also have the same problem. The negaitve air chamber will not hold any air. Do you know where I can get parts for a 2005 marathon sl fork?

Thanks!
Craig

 

[gdpolk]

I took it to a bike shop and had it rebuilt. Works like new now. It has been a bit over a month and it still has all of the pressure from when I aired it back up at the LBS.

I would talk to your LBS and see if they could rebuild it too.