Theoretical shock absorber question

[ATAl]

I was thinking on my way home (it's a long way) that it should be possible to create a firmer shock absorber if you pulled one apart (non-sealed type), drained out all the old oil and replaced it with heavy grade oil.

Any reason this couldn't work?

I'm not actually doing this, just wondering if it's feasible.

[Dangerous_Driver]

yes also brake fluid instead of oil works! only really want to do it if ur shocks are shot though!

[Mr Revhead]

yes its totally doable, in fact bikes do it.
iv seen it done on a race car, a lot cheaper than adjustable shocks.
theres proper shock oil you can use, i suspect its closer to hydrolic oil rather than engine oil though

[thaphatty]

yip works very well, can even do it in some r/c cars

[ATAl]

Hmm very interesting, thanks for the info

[TRD Man]

Yes. In the days before you could buy inserts we used to do this to our rally suspension.

[RedMist]

Trans Fluid, hydrolic fluid and oil all dont have the same anti airation qualities as proper shock oil. It means that in constant use, such as a bumpy road the fluid airates and the shock becomes much less effective. You really want to use a shock oil in a shock for that purpose, they come in varying grades with something to suit.
Also if the fluid is not viscous enough you can hydrolic the shock and either bend the shaft or explode the shock.