[bwolmarans]

How can I top the oil up on my 2004 manitou coil swinger 3-way?

I don't have time to send it in to answer, I want to ride next weekend.

Which oil and how much?


If you want to know how it got this way here's what happened: I accidently ( when playing with adjusting the spring with the shock off the bike ) unscrewed 3 or 4 threads of the piston, didn't notice, then sat on the bike and a lot of oil dripped out before I noticed. I then tightened the threads back up, but the rebound dampening is not really there now because there is not enough oil.

I downloaded manitou shock manual but it doesn't say how to top up the oil or what oil to use, but does have a lot of detailed instructions on bleeding the shock.

 

[bwolmarans]

please somebody help me. I know someone out there has the answer.

 

[Guest]

I was under the impression that you couldn't change the oil on a rear shock, as they weren't user servicable except for the seals. I know thats true on FOX and 5th element type shocks, maybe manitou's are a bit more user servicable. Sorry I can't help anymore.

 

[1niceride]

I think you have to go the long route with it, it has a piston that separates the oil from the air charge. The spv piston probably moved up as the oil leaked out. You probably have to set that piston at a certain distance then fill with oil using the "under oil" method. I did my 4-way air using the bleed directions and it is fine. I used 5-wt. Dump the spv air charge before cracking it open. Have at it!

 

[bwolmarans]

thanks that gives me a bit of confidence. can you describe the "under oil" method?

 

[SuspectDevice]

"under oil" meaning bleed it in a bucket.

 

[1niceride]

Its just making sure there is no air when installing the damper cap or top nut. One puts the damper together using oil in a container large enough to put the whole damper body into. It is described in the manual.