how do shocks work? (koni question)

[deaf_rattle]

OK im a little confused, i have bought some koni adjustable shocks.

All the other shocks ive seen have been at their extended size when they are out of the car, ie no weight on them.

These ones are different, they came in the box like the one on the left, with nothing holding it compressed.

to get it looking like the one on the right you need to pull it out manually.

is that wrong? do i need to take them back?

they are brand new and im abit puzzled by them

cheers

[Dell'Orto]

They'll be oil shocks. Gas ones will pop up by themselves, but the oil ones will stay as they are. I ran into the exact same thing when I bought some KYB's for my car.
I believe they work by forcing the oil through small holes in the shaft...I cant remember the purpose for the gas off hand.

[Zak]

The gas just keeps pressure on the oil to stop it frothing or bubbling from heat, both work exactly the same. It is the gas that keeps them extended though.

[deaf_rattle]

http://www.whiteline.com.au/default.asp ... ocks01.htm

thanks guys, for the price i shouldve known they wouldve been alright

[Ae92typeX]

although they would probably 'settle' themselves, ive been told in the past to 'prime' the oil shocks befor fitting. To do this simly put upright as you would when mounted and fully extend and compress half a dozen times.