Shock oil

[Guinn]

My '78 squeeks when I get in or out. It shouldn't be excessive weight as I only weigh 156. I think it might be that the left shock is low on oil but have not checked it yet as it is too cold in my "garage". Any ideas? Also, what oil to use. Somewhere I read that the shocks take 20wt motorcycle fork oil. Why not just 20wt?

 

[Bugeye58]

Guinn, I believe that fork oil is specified because it has additional anti foaming agents not present in regular 20wt. Original Armstrong shock oil is also available from various sources.
Dry bushings could also be the cause of a squeak.
Jeff

 

[Guinn]

I learn something every day! Anti foaming sounds like the reason for fork oil, alright.

Dry bushings? That also sounds like a possibility. What to do about that?

 

[Dave Russell]

Guinn,
A quick fix is to squirt some brake fluid on the bushing. Most other lubes will cause the rubber to deteriorate. This "fix" doesn't last too long & needs to periodically renewed.
D

 

[Guinn]

Thanks, both of you. Will put these ideas in my "to do" folder. My "garage" is too small and too open to do much until the weather warms again! I'd show you a picture, but haven't figured out how to do it yet.