Where I can get Armstrong Super damper fluid?

Post by **JimK** » Wed Feb 21, 2007 1:49 pm

Or a close equivalent? I know the manual says any SAE20 oil will do but I'd like to put proper shock oil in there.

Do not advise me to put engine oil in them. I suspect that's what the rear of my car has, anyway, since it barely moves. It's uncomfortable and the traction on rough roads is terrible.

Post by **alex_holden** » Wed Feb 21, 2007 2:01 pm

Is "super damper fluid" different to the standard stuff?

The stuff ESM sell as damper fluid is actually "Comma Jack Oil" as sold at auto factors for topping up hydraulic jacks.

Post by **JimK** » Wed Feb 21, 2007 2:06 pm

The Manual says Armstrong Super thin damper oil. It's the thin bit that's interesting. I'd like to know if the jack oil is just the closest thing going or if it's actually equivalent.

On my bikes I've always had oil specifically designed for dampers - including resistance to foaming when forced under hgh pressure through narrow gaps. It doesn't seem to me that a hydraulic jack is a similar application at all.

Post by **Pyoor_Kate** » Wed Feb 21, 2007 4:11 pm

Jim - you could just go get some thin fork oil. As I recall, my silkolene fork oil was described as 'thin'

Post by **JimK** » Wed Feb 21, 2007 4:20 pm

Pyoor_Kate wrote:Jim - you could just go get some thin fork oil. As I recall, my silkolene fork oil was described as 'thin'

Hmm. How thin? I have various fork oils at home - maybe I chould experiment with some mixtures? Start with 5W and work upwards - Boing!

Problem is: it's the back that needs sorting, and it's going to be a faff taking the shocks off to change the oil each time.

I'd really like to know the weight of the original oil.

Post by **les** » Wed Feb 21, 2007 7:05 pm

I have found a mention of Armstrong Super (thin) shock absorber fluid No 624. I may have some, but I don't know how I'd descibe the weight!

Post by **plastic_orange** » Wed Feb 21, 2007 7:14 pm

I used bike fork oil too with no problems.
To be slightly controversial, I've also used hypoy 90 with good results.

Pete

Post by **gairlochrosie** » Wed Feb 21, 2007 10:38 pm

I use Penrite, Shock Absorber Oil No: 1. For normal road use. Or, No:2 for increased damping use. Available from ESM.

Post by **Peetee** » Wed Feb 21, 2007 11:29 pm

I have experimented with 20W oil in front and rear shocks now for the last year with Joemog and would advise against it. It does give a very sporty ride which is firm but not harsh and It feels the part if that's the sort of set up you're after. However, It would seem that the shocks just can't take it. One front and both rears now leak. My best guess is that the oil's reluctance to budge has just resulted in blown seals. Moreover, with one new shocker on the front with standard oil I would say the road holding has improved hugely. I am now wondering if the thick oil stopped the suspension acting as quickly as it needs to. Thick oil is great if you want to reduce axle tramp (for the record - nil on a healthy 1275 ital lump) but if your wheel needs to get back on the ground when you hit a bump mid bend - forget it.

Post by **JimK** » Thu Feb 22, 2007 10:47 am

les wrote:I have found a mention of Armstrong Super (thin) shock absorber fluid No 624. I may have some, but I don't know how I'd descibe the weight!

Where have you found the mention? In a manual or from a supplier?

Post by **JimK** » Thu Feb 22, 2007 10:55 am

gairlochrosie wrote:I use Penrite, Shock Absorber Oil No: 1. For normal road use. Or, No:2 for increased damping use. Available from ESM.

Can't find it on ESM's site but another stockist has it. Thanks.

Post by **gairlochrosie** » Thu Feb 22, 2007 1:59 pm

JimK wrote:
gairlochrosie wrote:I use Penrite, Shock Absorber Oil No: 1. For normal road use. Or, No:2 for increased damping use. Available from ESM.
Can't find it on ESM's site but another stockist has it. Thanks.

Give them a phone on 01580 200203 I'm sure Nigel will help you out.

Post by **les** » Thu Feb 22, 2007 4:03 pm

I found the info out from a servicing data handbook for Austin/morris cars, it was listed for use in an A40.

Post by **minor_hickup** » Mon Mar 05, 2007 3:04 pm

Peetee wrote:I have experimented with 20W oil in front and rear shocks now for the last year with Joemog and would advise against it. It does give a very sporty ride which is firm but not harsh and It feels the part if that's the sort of set up you're after. However, It would seem that the shocks just can't take it. One front and both rears now leak. My best guess is that the oil's reluctance to budge has just resulted in blown seals. Moreover, with one new shocker on the front with standard oil I would say the road holding has improved hugely. I am now wondering if the thick oil stopped the suspension acting as quickly as it needs to. Thick oil is great if you want to reduce axle tramp (for the record - nil on a healthy 1275 ital lump) but if your wheel needs to get back on the ground when you hit a bump mid bend - forget it.

If the shocks leak they were most likely past it. I found my dampers leaked after replenising them on the front and back, using 20w50 and jack oil respectively. The best was to cure tramping is a nice new set of springs!