WARNING: XJ1100 Rear Shock Rebuild Warning

[OregonRider]

will the XJ11 shocks hold air pressure even though leaking oil?

[0011mixam]

I doubt it. Air molecules are smaller than oil molecules, so if the oil can make it past the seals, then there's not much chance of retaining air pressure.

[OregonRider]

That's what I'm thinking. I'm a machinist by trade and have worked on lot's of various air assist, oil dampening etc cylinders and this one has me baffled.
This past weekend I took a 600 mile round trip. this morning I noticed the right rear swing arm only around the lower shock mount wet with what appears to be oil. The boot is dry. I checked the air pressure and it was exactly the same as when I left for the trip Sat morning. The rear brakes and fluid look good and are not wet at the connections. also there is not a puddle under the bike.
rear shocks seem to operate fine also. Handles fine, and when I sit on the seat and bounce they also seem to recover fine.
I think I'll clean up the "wet" area and see if it comes back. I'll also check the oil level.

[jetmechmarty]

will the XJ11 shocks hold air pressure even though leaking oil?

It depends upon their design. My air forks were holding air pressure just fine, but leaking oil heavily. It surprised me when I checked the air pressure. I expected it to be flat.

Marty (in Germany)

[Yahman]

My shocks have done just what yours are doing for 3 years now. The pressure is always just what it should be. I do plan on rebuilding them this winter.

Larry

[OregonRider]

Well I guess I'll do the same then Larry.
Thanks,
John