Old 455 attack shock help

[gentner8]

I need to find a replacement for the rear shock of my wifes old Attack.  The elastomers appear to be in good shape, but they are rock hard and dont want to move.  Is there a way to revive them or is there a coil replacement that would work on this model?  Otherwise, where would I find a new set of elastomers for this bike.

Oh yeah, Is it possible to put one of the givin or noleen forks on this bike?  Im not sure what size the headtube would be.  The frame size is a 14.5" I think.  I wish I didnt power wash it now....

ANY help would be appreciated!!!!

~Jay

[shovelon]

You can buy new elastomers from Iron horse, or if you are in the U.K., RDI is testing elastomers. See the stickies at the top of the forum page.

RDI also has coil spring replacements for most shocks. I don't know about your model though.

Terry

[kiwi]

i am not sure but there is a sticky thread about a replacement for a 656 which may use the same shock.If you get stuck try warming the elastomers.I used to take mine off and warm them in warm water,some people put them in a microwave for ten seconds or so,i even resorted to pouring warm water over them ...but they will go hard again

[gentner8]

How long does this softening trick work?  Is there any kind of oil or lube to keep them soft that wont break them down?  They still look new, they are just hard.

I am still buying a new set or 2, so would anybody have the correct part numbers for ordering?  Do they come in different softnesses?

[kiwi]

they used to come in lots of different grades ,but now i think its soft med hard,depends on your weight.I dont know what the variables are in elastomer life.Once they go hard you are on a slippery slope,the softening has to be done more and more frequently.