expert-x mod

[grader]

running a 136 xpert on my 05 rx1. skid always seemed too stiff even with all settings on min. today i disconnected the overload springs by sliding them in on the shaft and clamping them on to the arm with a hose clamp, effectively eliminating them. ride is softer, kickback is reduced, and after 30 miles of testing it bottomed only once. the springs on the shocks are on min. so there is plenty of adjustment to firm them up. if you are having the same problems give it a try, 2 hose clamps and easy mod.

 

[JROCK]

What about moving the overload springs to the lower position. The one without the bronze ring. I also find it stiff for me.

 

[grader]

i had them in that position but still found it too hard, so i did this mod remove them from the picture and it worked well. just lift that end of the spring up to the top of the arm and clamp it in place with a 2-3 inch hose clamp. takes 10 minutes and if your not happy you can put it back. my shocks were done at excell last year trying to get rid of the kickback, but i think its the springs overpowering them.

 

[JROCK]

I will try that grader! What setting do you have on your softness bar?

 

[grader]

rubber block removed, nut is on with threads just coming through, transfer set to near max, collers on two shocks set at min so far. i may increase collars depending on conditions eg. ice buildup etc if it bottoms too much.

 

[JROCK]

Why did you remove the rubber block, more transfer? Had a couple hard bottoms with the overload spring disconnected last night but it did make it alot softer!

 

[grader]

update- after running more miles in craped out trails i found it bottoming too much for my liking. if i drove civil all the time and slowed down it would probably be fine, but occasionaly the sled has air under it. i drilled another hole about one half inch from the top of the rail for the spring to mount in, and it works well. the springs are only engaged near the end of the suspension stroke, leaving the first 75% soft. a better idea would be a threaded assembly that would allow full movement of the spring, making trailside adjustments easy. this will be a summer project if there is room on the skid to do it.