Fox Shock for '87 VFR700

Discussion in '1st & 2nd Generation 1983-1989' started by slooowpoq, Aug 6, 2022.

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  1. slooowpoq

    slooowpoq New Member

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    I got the pictured used Fox shock many years ago and I would like to finally install after completing the installation of Race Tech Springs and Gold Emulators on my front forks. Please help me understand the functions and adjustment of the shock and if it will even work properly on my bike. The person I bought it from also bought it used and never installed it. He didn't know much about it but said it would fit my VFR. Any advice is appreciated.

    IMG_20220806_094819982.jpg IMG_20220806_095001773.jpg IMG_20220806_095017757.jpg IMG_20220806_094927887.jpg
     
    Last edited: Aug 6, 2022
  2. raYzerman

    raYzerman Member

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    You have a manual preload ring, you need the correct spanner to adjust it. Best measure sag and adjust preload for your weight... I don't know what you weigh, nor do we know the spring weight, so hope it works. May or may not be some numbers on the spring which could give a clue.

    Blue knurled knob will be rebound adjuster...... turn in clockwise looking from the bottom, until lightly seated. Count the clicks.. turn it out fully, and count the total clicks for reference. Do not know the "standard" setting, so put it back where you found it perhaps... you'll adjust based on riding experience.

    The reservoir looks like it has compression damping, my guess is it's set on 3, using the hose as reference. You'll adjust based on how firm it feels when you hit bumps....

    It also looks like the bottom clevis is threaded and has a jam nut... so possibly ride height adjustable.

    If this is their website, perhaps check it out.... maybe they can identify the model, etc.??
    https://www.ridefox.com/filter.php?m=moto&v=shocks
     
  3. Terry Smith

    Terry Smith Member

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    It's been a few decades since I had one of those! The blue ring is the rebound adjuster, screwed in fully clockwise is the maximum damping. The red knob on the reservoir is the compression damping adjuster, again fully clockwise is the maximum. You also have a length adjuster on the botttom clevis for a ride height adjustment.

    Set the preload adjuster so the shock is compressed by about 1/3 when you just sit on it. Set the rebound so the bike springs back as quickly as possible without overshooting and having an extra bounce. Set the compression to the minimum that avoids any harsh bottoming on bumps.
     
  4. slooowpoq

    slooowpoq New Member

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    Thanks for my the information. I'll set the preload, then the ride height, then the rebound dampening, then the compression dampening judging by the ride over bumps.

    The reservoir has a Schrader valve on one end. What is that for? Do I need to adjust oil level or add air pressure?
     
  5. Terry Smith

    Terry Smith Member

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    There is a rubber bladder located in the reservoir, that is pressurised with nitrogen to keep the oil under pressure and stop cavitation. It should have something like 200psi in it (but don't quote me on that). Don't disassemble it unless you really need to do so e.g. to replace a leaking shaft seal.

    When I had my Fox shock I found it quite jolting on bumps; Fox advised me to modify the compression valve to increase the number of ports and allow for faster flow. I think I still have access to my old notes somewhere if you are interested.
     
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  6. slooowpoq

    slooowpoq New Member

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    Thanks Terry, I won't disassemble and will be careful not to mess with it for now. I'm 6'2, 245 pounds, so maybe the compression damping will be OK. However, if you come across your notes, it would be good information to know.
     
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