Shock

[cadee]

i removed the suspension on my 1981 Invader and i lubed everything up because it was "bottioming out" and would not pop back up.
I took out the shock and my question is, how do i know if the shock is siezed?
i cant compress it by hand so this there some way i can tell if i can just lube it or something or do i have to buy another one.
Thanks!

[Cpt. Kawi]

You should be able to move the shock back and forth by hand. Keep in mind the shock is just a dampener if it has no spring on it, so as to slow the suspension travel.

[jimvw57]

If you have the standard suspension, there is a coil spring on the shock. You need to compress the spring to remove the retainers from the shock shaft and then remove the spring.

If it is the Vari-ride suspension, there is no spring on the shock and it should move in and out slowly.

[gixxer6]

Being an 81 Invader, it should have the Vari-Ride skid.  If someone has replaced the shock with an aftermarket gas shock, it will behave different than a hydraulic shock.  The gas shock will be fully extended and will push in hard, then slowly extend itself. 

I think I have some good used shocks ( both gas and hydraulic) if you are in need. 

[jimvw57]

I have seen 81 Invaders with the wrong skid in them, probably a shade tree mechanic with a spare older version suspension that had to be used. I'd stick with the Vari-ride.