What is the proper way to measure extended and compressed shock length?

[JoePA]

My shocks are at the shop and I need to find out what the compressed and extended length for the front and rear shock. If I'm not mistaken don't you put the quad down on a 2x4, shocks remove and take a measurement eye to eye then set the quad up on 12" blocks then take another measurement from eye to eye. This should be your compressed and extended length? Pleasecorrect me if rhis is the wrong procedure.

[SHOWNGO250R]

You're on the right track. First off, be sure that the tires that are on the quad are the ones you will be using and have the tire pressures properly set. Take all the shocks off and set the frame on a box that is 12 inches tall. Now measure your shock mount holes eye to eye for your extended shock length. Be sure to check the steering for any binding at that height. Now set the frame down on 2x4's laid flat (1.5 inches tall) and take the same shock mount eye to eye measurements for your compressed shock length. Again, check the steering for any clearance or binding problems. Hope that helps.

[JoePA]

Yes...Helps alot! I knew I was close but wasn't sure to the exact procedure. For tire pressure, MX 10-12 up front and 6-8 out back????

[SHOWNGO250R]

Yeah that would be a good place to start. Tracks with bigger jumps - higher tire pressure to help absorb the landings. Tracks with small jumps - lower tire pressure for added traction and a smoother ride. Heavier riders - higher tire pressure, and vice versa for lighter riders.

[Lasher-19]

On my Walsh chassis I have adjustable upper front shock mounts and tried doing this last fall. Cool as anything to see the chassis 1.5 inches off the ground. You can really see how close things come to each other. The air box and the chain were really close. Plus I also spaced out my silencer a little more to make sure it cleared the axle nut/brake caliper.

The extended length is set with the shock. I did not use the 12 inch box but the specs Axis gave me. I will have to check what the actual frame height is with the extended length.

[JoePA]

I did the measurements last night and the 1.5 measurement was kind of cool seeing the quad lying that flat. I couldnt really lay flat on the 2x4 due to my front ball joints binding but it was very close. Yeah I did notice that I will need to space out my silencer due to the caliper hitting.

In regards to my extened length i was only off by 1/16 from the actual shock length so that's good I guess. I sent the measurements off to my builder I hope it all goes well. In some ways I wish they went back to Axis but we'll see how they turn out.

[Lasher-19]

You need to make sure the compressed length of the shock will not bind up the ball joint. Either shorted the shock (with shims) or adjust the arms so they will not bind.

And the 2x4 is avoid bottoming out the frame before you bottom out the shock. The height (1.5 inches) is about the same as when the tires get compressed.