2005 RS Vector Suspension rebound (return height)

[BruteMan]

Hello, This seems to be the most informative place regarding Vectors and I have lurked here via google searches often.

I am hitting a information gap that both the owners and service manual nor Google is helping me assess. I purchased a Used 2005 Vector last fall and its been great little odds and ends bearings sliders etc work i needed to do but overall it's been a solid purchase.

The information im hoping all you current and previous 05 Owners can help with is the skid when i ride it seems to float fine but there's some sag in the suspension if i lift it up at the back and take the weight off the skid then put it down it seems to rest at a natural 13" from the rear axle nut to the running board on the tunnel if i leave it, it slowly sags itself down to about 11" naturally no weight on it if i push on it and compress the suspension and release it again no weight on it it seems to come to rest at 10" same measurement points.

Should this sled always be resting at the 13" measurement and if so is it a sign that i need to replace what the center shock (#34) or the coil springs (#53)? when i replaced the idle wheels that have the spring clips on them the coil springs seemed to be really stiff and difficult to return to the clip to me seems normal and that they are not weakened but again no experience in this matter.

If the Sag is normal then i guess i'm all good it's not bottomed out on me that i've noticed it's just been annoying when i check other sleds out and i press down on them and then pick them up there does not seem to be a similar sag on them all different models and manufacturers then this one tho.

 

[4strokeluvr111]

I would guess #34 is shot and needs to be replaced. Instead of looking for a direct replacement, contact Travis at barnofparts.com and ask him if he has a Nytro gas shock in stock for your sled.

BUT......before you put it in, unless you ride HARD..have the shock revalved about 50% softer. It's a stiff SOB in it's stock state.

 

[BruteMan]

thanks for now there's a 05 vector being scrapped for parts by a friend hes looking at his shock might give me the whole skid for 100 i'll see if its any good to finish the season on and then look into upgrading it

 

[4strokeluvr111]

Test the shock.....push the rod in and it should rebound without any help.

 

[BruteMan]

so that part #34 on the other skid as well its not a shock that rebounds it's just an absorber for hard impacts, Spoke with the local dealer here the coil springs (#53) are what determines return height and in this skid there's always going to be that 2-3" difference until the spring has the weight of the sled and rider compressing it. I did stiffen up the S/M/H adjuster on the rear coil springs to H seems to improved it a bit. Was told to keep a look out for a M10 or M20 121" skid on the used markets not sure if one will show up but this'll have to do i guess.

 

[Vectornut]

Replace #53 , both sides. Look for a RS Nitro shock or an Olins and you will be pleased with the changes.