Adjusting Preload

I just want to ask ya'll what sort of tool you're supposed to use to adjust the load of your rear suspension? Mine is stuck at the hardest setting ever since I got it. Mine never came with any sort of tool to take care of that. My brothers 83 Maxim came with a tool kit but does not include anything that fits in that hole/boss thingy on the shocks.

What am I to do?

 

I use a very large set of adjustable jaw pliers and a rag wrapped around the shock. Hook wrenches are not that hard to make or use. Harbor Freight sells a set for $20. Check it out.

 

I used an allen wrench that fit in pretty well. A 5.5mm or 7/32"

 

Make a perfectly fitting Tool!!!

Craftsman Standard Phillips Screwdriver.
Cut off Phillips Head.
Cut off Plastic Handle at point where metal shank ends inside.
Chuck in electric drill.
High speed sand nice, smooth, dome on it.
Get it nice and smooth. 800 finishes it.
Protect Plastic Handle from melting.
Wrap Handle and One inch of shank in a very cold, wet towel.
Heat end of shank until Cherry Red.
Keep heat AWAY from Plastic.
Bend end to 90-Degrees; rapidly Quench in water.
Grind short side of "The 90" -- to: 10mm.
One Special Tool for adjusting shocks!

Badda-Bing ... Badda-Boom!

 

Very nice solution, Rick. I was lucky enough that my right angle, came-with-the-set screwdriver fit right in there when I wanted to change the settings. Of course, spraying some WD-40 did help as I don't think the settings had been changed in 22 years and the chrome has the rust to prove it. Also, a 5mm hex wrench should fit in there as another alternative. The long handled ones, for leverage, of course.

 

Cool idea there Rick !

 

Wow, looks like you took a picture of the tool I use. Modified screwdriver works well. Great tip

 

On the aniversary of this post...A stubby phillips head screw driver works fine.