Testing shocks

[astat1]

I have a pair of NOS shocks that have been sitting in their box for 4-5 years in my garage (30-40 years before that somewhere else). When compressed they are smooth but don't extend on their own. Are they shot or still usable? Thanks

 

[MoparMitch]

They are probably not gas charged shocks.

 

[astat1]

Were original shocks for a 70 gas charged? If not, are they not expected to self extend? Thanks

 

[MoparMitch]

The original shocks were not gas, so no, they should not self extend.

 

[bluefury]

bleeding non gas shocks.

They likely are not gas charged shocks so they won't extend on their own.

They should be cycled, by hand, in the upright position several times before installing. This will bleed the air that is trapped while stored in a horizontal position. Back in the day while working in service shops this was standard procedure.

 

[1948 santa]

Extend shock in normal mounting position then push together in upside down position several times to bleed air out.