Rear Damper Coolant

I am overhauling the rear suspansion of my S4 Elan & have found that there is no coolant surrounding the damper insert (Armstrong??) in it’s outer tube - only a small quantity of grease. The Lotus workshop manual doesn’t mention any coolant. Should there be some? If so what?

It is usual to add a small amount of engine oil in the tube, I dont think it matters about the grade …sae 30 or 40, the shock manufactures used to note this in their fitting instructions and as I recall it was about an egg cup full.
I have heard of people useing an anti-freeze but never did this myself…other comments?

Had to renew my rear dampers after some “Spyder” work, Andy told me
to fit the dampers then fill up the space with neat antifreeze.

Not noticed any problems with them since, although I am not expecting any.

Doug.

Guys, forgot to add that my dampers are Spax adjustable gas dampers, I suppose that could make a difference, maybe if someone on here is talking to Andy at Spyder they could find out his thought’s on the subject.

I filled mine with ATF, ( automatic transmission fluid…nothing to do with alcohol, tobacco and firearms for you Americans). :slight_smile:

This was done on the basis that any leaks/fluid crossover would be less of a problem than with other solutions. Remembered using ATF in motorcycle forks years ago so figured it would be a good alternative.

Also covered the exposed shaft with a rubber boot of the type used on steering racks so that the seal on the top of the insert wouldn’t wear as fast. This was years ago and so far the seals are fine.

Ralph.

When I replaced the damper inserts on my S4, I filled the gap with engine oil. Each unit takes about 1 cup full.

I like the idea of using oil rather than antifreeze as the oil should prevent any rust.

Steve, wouldn’t any water settle to the bottom (heavier than oil) and then be trapped by the oil above?

Hmm… I had not thought about it like that. However when I pulled the old damper units out last winter, after gawd knows how many years in place there was not sign of any water at the bottom. The oil was remarkably clean.