Apex SE shock question

[Taptap]

I bought a 2011 Apex SE a few months ago. I had the front end off the ground to swap out the runners and thought this would be a good time to check the presser in my shocks. I slowly threaded onto the valve expecting to see the gage register the current presser. Instead I heard a hiss and I pumped for several minutes but never got the gage to move. I tried both sides with no luck. When I finally gave and put the sled back on the ground my front shocks/suspension flat! I think my pump must be defective but I really have no idea.
I had read some good things about the Float shocks, I hope I didn't make a mistake.

Any ideas?

 

[LJ 452]

Put your finger over the end of the pump, give it a few raps and see if you get any pressure behind it. You need to thread it on all the way, don't go slow, and make sure your hand isn't pressing the air release button on the bottom of the pump. As for airing them up, need to have the front unloaded as you did, it will take several pumps to air up, especially if they are completely flat. Also don't be afraid to use any standard pump to air them up, they can handle 150psi, most compressors will only output about 100. Just make sure there isn't a bunch of moisture (rusty water) in the lines.

 

[Taptap]

I saw a notice in the owners manual about damaging a seal if over tightened. When I pump the pump there is definitely air being push out but when attached to the shock nothing goes in. I didn't know that I could use a compressor, I'll try that in the morning.

 

[LJ 452]

Just using your fingers you really dont need to be concerned about over tightening. I have huge fingers and haven't damaged any floats in 7 years of using them. Tighten it up quickly and tight (finger tight).