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I also had an issue with my HD adjustable backrest stuck in the forward position. I did some research and found this thread.
I ordered the replacement piston from Suspa on 11/17/2016
Suspa Varilock
Type: EL1
Part Number: 02752046
The price for the replacement piston back in 11/2016 was:
$100 027-52046 Varilock Piston
$7 sales tax
$12.48 shipping
$119.48 order total
Keep in mind this part when ordered from the factory has a five year warranty.
I removed the gas piston from the mount and the piston was stuck in the forward position (piston fully extended). I was curious what would happen if I placed the piston in my 12-ton Harbor Freight hydraulic press and tried to compress the piston. Sure enough, I was able to compress and free up the piston and it's been working fine since. Still have the new one I purchased in my spare parts box.
I removed the gas piston from the mount and the piston was stuck in the forward position (piston fully extended). I was curious what would happen if I placed the piston in my 12-ton Harbor Freight hydraulic press and tried to compress the piston. Sure enough, I was able to compress and free up the piston and it's been working fine since. Still have the new one I purchased in my spare parts box.
That is good to hear. I found the complete mechanism that fits under the seat on eBay for $63 and it looks like it has never been installed. I picked up a kit, actuator Handel kit # 52367-09 in the hopes that the cables are interchangeable. The kit is for the new 09 and up and the handle is a bit different looking. I posted the question online but no responses yet. Will tear into it possibly this weekend.
The little actuator button was freely moving but the check ball behind it must have become stuck in place. I was ready to order one and gave this a try.
I put to upside down (stuck button pointing up), I
sprayed Corrosion X, applied a small amount of heat, and lightly tapped on on the stuck actuator button and it suddenly popped up. Put antother touch of penetrating oil or Corrosion X and work it out until it all works like new again.
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