Air Shock Boot

[Mark B]

The boot on my front air shock is cracking and there are even a couple holes through the rubber. Is this something I should be concerned about and if so, are there replacement boots available? Is there something I should be doing differently to make them last longer, like treating the rubber with something? I was going to swipe the one off of Silvio I, but it's in pretty similar condition.

Thanks,

Mark

 

[trapdoor2]

While there is nothing you can do about it now (other than repair or replacement), it is a good idea to treat exposed rubber stuff with a protective coating. Most over-the counter tire treatments can be used but look for one that has no petroleum products (typically the aerosol propellant or "cleaner" if the product "cleans and protects". The petroleum solvents can remove things that ought not to be removed from the rubber surface) and contains a UV protectant. Silicone based sprays are the most common...and that's what the rubber industry uses.

The boot is simply a way to keep grit, etc. out of the bearing surfaces of the shock. There are some great 'repair' products out there that work quite well, look for "Goop" (comes in many varieties) and select one that suits the shock boot. http://www.eclecticproducts.com/ag_adhesives.htm Perhaps the "sport and outdoor" version might be best.

My local home-improvent box-stores (Lowes and Home Depot) carry Goop products.

 

[Mark B]

Thanks, Marc, I'll look into that.

Mark

 

[backley]

Mark,
My boot had developed a vertical crack that went almost completely through the boot. I sent a picture of the damaged boot to John Tolhurst and I had a replacement sent to me within two weeks. So, if the break gets any worse, don't despair.
Blaine