Trying to put together a Softtail. These "shocks" don't push, they don't pull, they don't behave like a "shock" at all. Also can't get them opened up with anything we've tried.
Are these parts junk?




Thank you for any help,

 

Softail shocks are a bit different as they have an internal spring. As the suspension compresses the shock actually extends thus compressing the internal spring. AS there is a spring in there, you wont be able to extend or compress the sock by just pushing or pulling on it. Additionally with the lever action of the suspension, the 4"'s of travel we get really relates to about 1" of shock movement...

I would think of these as coilover shocks instead of just plain shocks...

 

that has a great disassembly video.

 

Thank you. That helps understand better what we have. (We have quite a project going and no experience with softails. Wanting to extend the shocks a couple of inches.....