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General Category => Modifications => Topic started by: fj11.5 on May 02, 2012, 04:49:27 AM

Title: honda f4i rear shock
Post by: fj11.5 on May 02, 2012, 04:49:27 AM
after reading on here awhile ago about a honda f4 rear shock that may fit an fj, , i asked around and scored a great condition one localy for $20.00 , wanting to upgrade my f**#+#d 84 fj11 one ,, so to make it fit my way was to drill the top bushing on the shock so the original bolt would fit , also needed 2 spacers on top as its 22mm less that standard, , as for the bottom i pressed out the bearing in the bottom shock eyelet and had a bushing made up to accept the mounting shaft , bolted it back in , installed the wheel and test rode,, like a new bike   :good2:  :good2: ps mounted the  compression / gas can where the original adjuster was , just used some neoprene and made a bracket to bolt in the old adjuser holes , will post pics later if anyone wants a look  (popcorn)  pps,, shock is about 15mm longer than standard so arse end is raised up nicely ,, works perfctly with the 17" wheel , shock has compression and rebound adjustment as well as preload,    i set preload on 3 as a guess ,perfect for me , lucky as it cant be adjusted easily once the botom is bolted it, but only 2 bolts and the shaft to remove to change it,,, back wheel almost touches the ground on the centre stand,no effort required  :rofl: ,,, may need to do the sidestand mod now , oh well :morning2: :sarcastic:
Title: Re: honda f4i rear shock
Post by: andyb on May 02, 2012, 08:33:24 AM
What year F4?  Might be a handy thing for people looking for upgraded shocks for less than $500....
Title: Re: honda f4i rear shock
Post by: markmartin on May 02, 2012, 11:13:24 AM
Sounds like a nice find.  Good R & D and good work!!
Title: Re: honda f4i rear shock
Post by: Arnie on May 02, 2012, 11:20:28 AM
That was my write up about the Honda F4i shock.
Mine is from an '06 bike.

With the later bikes that use a clevis on the lower mount point, you'll have to cut the upper eye and weld a clevis to it.
Mount the shock upside down and you can get to all the adjustments.  The remote reservoir gets strapped to the right swingarm leg.

Cheers,
Arnie
Title: Re: honda f4i rear shock
Post by: Dads_FJ on May 02, 2012, 11:56:53 AM
This is GOLD... Honda f4 shocks are a dime a dozen!  Looks like 99-04 are the same?
Title: Re: honda f4i rear shock
Post by: fj11.5 on May 02, 2012, 06:54:43 PM
its off an 01 model, , and they all seem alike from what i looked at on ebay ?? thought about drilling the top mount out and fitting it upside down, but have no need to change preload that often, , nice work arnie how did you work out the f4 shock would work to start with   (popcorn)
Title: Re: honda f4i rear shock
Post by: Arnie on May 02, 2012, 10:40:36 PM
Mainly by  the number of coils and diameters of the spring, which give you spring rate.  The Eye to Eye distance was not too much longer and I knew I could adjust some with dogbone length.  It was also cheap enough to take the gamble.

Arnie

Quote from: fj11.5 on May 02, 2012, 06:54:43 PM
its off an 01 model, , and they all seem alike from what i looked at on ebay ?? thought about drilling the top mount out and fitting it upside down, but have no need to change preload that often, , nice work arnie how did you work out the f4 shock would work to start with   (popcorn)
Title: Re: honda f4i rear shock
Post by: fj11.5 on May 03, 2012, 04:15:57 AM
sure are cheap and after looking on ebay theres no shortage of them, if only the front end was as cheap and easy to fix,,  (popcorn)
Title: Re: honda f4i rear shock
Post by: oldktmdude on May 03, 2012, 06:56:01 AM
  I fitted an F4i shock to my '85, about three weeks ago. The changes to the bike's handling and ride are remarkable. For a total outlay of about $85 and 2 hours labour, it's a huge gain for very little outlay.
The '05 model shock was bought from Ebay and delivered to my front door for less than $70, I bought 3 spherical bearings (GE-12E) for the top mount (12mm ID, 22mm OD and 10mm wide $18 delivered). The bottom mount was achieved by removing the CBR shock bush and using 2 FJ relay arm bushes, cut to length to match original shock width. The remote reservoir is hose clamped to the frame strut on the RHS, under the side-cover.
I'm not very heavy so the spring pre-load is wound to it's lowest setting, as is the comp setting. The rear end has been lifted by approx 30mm, so it steers quicker and feels much better to ride.
  Thanks Arnie, for bringing the use of the CBR shock to my attention. It is a big improvement over my original 27 year old shock and will suffice till I can afford one of Randy's new shocks.   Regards, Pete.   :i_am_so_happy:
Title: Re: honda f4i rear shock
Post by: markmartin on May 03, 2012, 10:50:01 AM
Quote from: markmartin on May 02, 2012, 11:13:24 AM
Sounds like a nice find.  Good R & D and good work!!

I had missed your original post on this subject.  Good work Arnie!
Title: Re: honda f4i rear shock
Post by: giantkiller on May 03, 2012, 09:59:14 PM
Quote from: fj11.5 on May 02, 2012, 04:49:27 AM
after reading on here awhile ago about a honda f4 rear shock that may fit an fj, , i asked around and scored a great condition one localy for $20.00 , wanting to upgrade my f**#+#d 84 fj11 one ,, so to make it fit my way was to drill the top bushing on the shock so the original bolt would fit , also needed 2 spacers on top as its 22mm less that standard, , as for the bottom i pressed out the bearing in the bottom shock eyelet and had a bushing made up to accept the mounting shaft , bolted it back in , installed the wheel and test rode,, like a new bike   :good2:  :good2: ps mounted the  compression / gas can where the original adjuster was , just used some neoprene and made a bracket to bolt in the old adjuser holes , will post pics later if anyone wants a look  (popcorn)  pps,, shock is about 15mm longer than standard so arse end is raised up nicely ,, works perfctly with the 17" wheel , shock has compression and rebound adjustment as well as preload,    i set preload on 3 as a guess ,perfect for me , lucky as it cant be adjusted easily once the botom is bolted it, but only 2 bolts and the shaft to remove to change it,,, back wheel almost touches the ground on the centre stand,no effort required  :rofl: ,,, may need to do the sidestand mod now , oh well :morning2: :sarcastic:
Yes would like to have pics, would be great. I have an 86 Would it mount the same on 1200? Great find!
Thanks Dan McCoy
Title: Re: honda f4i rear shock
Post by: oldktmdude on May 04, 2012, 07:14:28 AM
 [/quote]   Yes would like to have pics, would be great. I have an 86 Would it mount the same on 1200? Great find!
Thanks Dan McCoy
[/quote]
  The '86 top and bottom mount bushes share the same part numbers as the 1100's but the shock has a different number. My guess is that they may have a different spring rating or some other minor differences but  essentially the same. Overall length may also be slightly different but can see no reason why the F4i shock could not be adapted to fit. Someone with first-hand knowledge of the '86 1200's shock maybe able to shed more light on the subject. Regards, Pete.
Title: Re: honda f4i rear shock
Post by: fj11.5 on May 05, 2012, 01:10:40 AM
2 pics in gallery , standard Fj shock is 285mm c/c , , f4i shock 300mm c/c approximately ,raises the back nicely with the 17" wheel conversion
Title: Re: honda f4i rear shock
Post by: Dads_FJ on May 09, 2012, 10:42:02 AM
I have a shock coming from an '06 f4i that had 5000 miles on it.  $50 to my door!  I'll post w/updates...
Title: Re: honda f4i rear shock
Post by: fj11.5 on May 09, 2012, 05:09:58 PM
well done mate,thats a bargain, , once you,ve sorted out the mounting eyelets on the shock, and you ready to install it, have the fj parked on the centerstand but have something at least half inch thich under the stand, as you need the extra height when you install the rear wheel again, trust me you need to take the wheel out as the swing arm has to come down to line up the lower arms with the shock, also makes it easier to install the wheel again ,  (popcorn)
Title: Re: honda f4i rear shock
Post by: Dads_FJ on June 05, 2012, 10:01:12 AM
Okay, done with the Honda f4i shock mod. Wow - I don't think the bike ever rode this nice.

1).  The top of the Honda shock needs to be drilled to the size of the FJ bolt, no biggie but keep it straight.  Because the shock is narrower, two 10mm spacers need to take up the space.  Image 1.

2).  The bottom of the honda shock uses a 17mm ID X 24mm OD needle bearing with 2 seals.  Press out the bearing and seals and replace them with two 18mm x 24mm x 12mm bearings and two 18mm x 24mm x 4mm seals.  images 2-4

Image 1
(http://i208.photobucket.com/albums/bb37/campsimonette/FJ1100/100_1944.jpg)

Image 2
(http://i208.photobucket.com/albums/bb37/campsimonette/FJ1100/100_2198.jpg)

image 3
(http://i208.photobucket.com/albums/bb37/campsimonette/FJ1100/100_1946.jpg)

image 4
(http://i208.photobucket.com/albums/bb37/campsimonette/FJ1100/100_2199.jpg)


Before and after:

(http://i208.photobucket.com/albums/bb37/campsimonette/FJ1100/fjshock.jpg)

Pros:
•   Cheap – Shock was $50 to my door plus $36 for bearings and seals.
•   Honda shock is rebuildable and fully adjustable, and did I say cheap?
•   Can go back to stock shock or better aftermarket, no modification to the FJ chassis was made.
•   Easier to get on center stand, WAY easier.
•   Ride height was increased.

Cons:
•   Now I can tell my front end need attention.
•   Rear wheel touches the ground when on center stand.
•   Preload is a bitch to adjust.

(http://i208.photobucket.com/albums/bb37/campsimonette/FJ1100/100_2205.jpg)
Title: Re: honda f4i rear shock
Post by: Dan Filetti on June 05, 2012, 10:43:19 AM
Dad's

This is really nice work.  Kudos for the documentation.  This sure seems like a doable way to upgrade your FJ rear suspension to a more modern shock.  I'm wondering about what you did to compensate for the 150+ lb weight difference and requisite shock setup between the doner F4i and the FJ.

Only other issue I can see is there does not seem to be a ride height adjustment, but hell, for $86 it sure seems like an amazing way to make a decent upgrade.

Thanks for sharing,

Dan   
Title: Re: honda f4i rear shock
Post by: Dads_FJ on June 05, 2012, 11:54:40 AM
Quote from: Dan Filetti on June 05, 2012, 10:43:19 AM
Dad's

This is really nice work.  Kudos for the documentation.  This sure seems like a doable way to upgrade your FJ rear suspension to a more modern shock.  I'm wondering about what you did to compensate for the 150+ lb weight difference and requisite shock setup between the doner F4i and the FJ.

Only other issue I can see is there does not seem to be a ride height adjustment, but hell, for $86 it sure seems like an amazing way to make a decent upgrade.

Thanks for sharing,

Dan   

And thanks for the compliment!  This set up may not match up to a more expensive shock, but I can say is that there was a dramatic improvement just bolting it on.  However I'll be the first to admit that my riding skills wouldn't match others on the list.  Also my testing grounds are pretty straight and flat, so I'm not really pushing the limits of me and/or the bike.  I think the old shock was so bad a straight rod would have been better, but it's just not in my budget and I cannot afford the correct aftermarket shock for my bike.

By 'ride height adjustment' do you mean pre-load?  If so it's there, but a bugger to adjust.  I guess by fully adjustable I meant preload, and compression & rebound damping, but not ride height, sorry for the confusion.
Title: Re: honda f4i rear shock
Post by: ian.z9 on June 05, 2012, 12:28:08 PM
(http://i885.photobucket.com/albums/ac57/iankawa/P1060287.jpg)
This was the mod I was looking for as my FJ looked a little droopy at the rear after fitting the gsxr wheel.I couldn't find a F4I shock
so I used an F3.Looked about the same but the preload is easy to adjust with the right C spanner.Centrestand is abit dodgy as the wheel is on the ground but I can weld a riser on the foot of the stand to get the rear wheel up.Rear chain is closer to the exhaust and was touching it until I adjusted the chain tighter,not too tight so check it when you are sitting on the bike.Could be a good excuse to fit my 4into1 race pipe as there would be no chain touching problems then (maybe some from the neighbours.I leave at 6.15am)Shock action is ok but I'm not that fussy as the roads here are straight and after my zed anything feels stable.I just got a bush made for the bottom of the shock like the original yam shock.The needle bearings look better so I should upgrade it I think.A Penske has to be better but for 50euros this will do for me.
Title: Re: honda f4i rear shock
Post by: WhiteBeard on June 05, 2012, 02:30:45 PM
Clean looking ride!  :good2:
Title: Re: honda f4i rear shock
Post by: fj11.5 on June 06, 2012, 04:06:41 AM
yep, huge improvement in handling, , , the lower bearings are a good idea, may have to do that too, couldnt find them when i bought mine, so the bush had to do,,,,  (popcorn)
Title: Re: honda f4i rear shock
Post by: Arnie on June 06, 2012, 10:16:46 AM
Dan Filetti said, " I'm wondering about what you did to compensate for the 150+ lb weight difference and requisite shock setup between the doner F4i and the FJ."

I would suggest that the suspension lever ratios of the F4i and the FJ are different enough that the stock F4i spring works very well on the FJ.  Rough calculation (I don't have a spring tester any more) shows the F4i spring at about 1000 lbs/in.  It is also possible that the F4i is sprung very hard so it is ready for track work.

If they both used their shock and springs in a direct manner without linkage or rockers like the Aprilia Shiver or Kawasaki Versys then the weight difference would be more of a concern.

Arnie
Title: Re: honda f4i rear shock
Post by: axiom-r on June 06, 2012, 03:18:50 PM
The skinnier R1 shock I started with was only 500lbs/in and was far too soft for the FJ.  If the F4i is in fact a 1000lb/in spring you should be in decent shape.  I ended up with a 1400 lb spring on my Penske but I definitely messed with the linkage causing it to require a stiffer spring....  I see from the pic of the F4i shock it has no ride height adjustment. Perhaps you can lower it slightly by changing the dog-bones to a different length. Ideal ride height would give you a half inch of clearance under the back wheel when on the center stand.  I know others have been able to deal with this issue in this way.

Nice work!

tim
Title: Re: honda f4i rear shock
Post by: ian.z9 on June 06, 2012, 04:54:03 PM
(http://i885.photobucket.com/albums/ac57/iankawa/P1060291.jpg)

You can see here that its easy to adjust with a C-spanner.The older cbr shock has the preload ring higher up the shock.Not that adjusting it makes that much differance.Haven't had a passenger on yet.Bouncing the rear of the bike up and down and comparing it to my workmates S1000RRRRRR beemer shows the shock to be underdamped but its not costing me 15grand so I'll put up with it.It does feel ok when riding but it should be better when I replace the rear tyre soon. 
Title: Re: honda f4i rear shock
Post by: FJmonkey on June 06, 2012, 05:43:12 PM
I don't think the 84/85 has dog bones. The 86/87 don't have them either.
Title: Re: honda f4i rear shock
Post by: baldy3853 on June 06, 2012, 06:12:35 PM
So Mark tell me why we can't see your feet in
your profile picture........... :sarcastic:
Title: Re: honda f4i rear shock
Post by: fj11.5 on June 06, 2012, 06:58:22 PM
Quote from: FJmonkey on June 06, 2012, 05:43:12 PM
I don't think the 84/85 has dog bones. The 86/87 don't have them either.
correct , no doggy bones to chew in the 84 models
Title: Re: honda f4i rear shock
Post by: axiom-r on June 06, 2012, 08:17:09 PM
Quote from: FJmonkey on June 06, 2012, 05:43:12 PM
I don't think the 84/85 has dog bones. The 86/87 don't have them either.

ahhhh  that's right.  My mistake!

Title: Re: honda f4i rear shock
Post by: yamaha fj rider on June 06, 2012, 08:50:51 PM
 :good2: That is a super mod. It has to work better than the stock shock and is very reasonably priced. Good work on this one thank's for the R & D and pictures!

Kurt
Title: Re: honda f4i rear shock
Post by: FJmonkey on June 06, 2012, 09:55:25 PM
Quote from: FJmonkey on June 06, 2012, 05:43:12 PM
I don't think the 84/85 has dog bones. The 86/87 don't have them either.
In my best Jedi mind control voice "There is nothing to look at, these are not the boots you are looking for".....
Title: Re: honda f4i rear shock
Post by: fj11.5 on June 07, 2012, 12:51:40 AM
Quote from: yamaha fj rider on June 06, 2012, 08:50:51 PM
:good2: That is a super mod. It has to work better than the stock shock and is very reasonably priced. Good work on this one thank's for the R & D and pictures!

Kurt
works much better than a standard 26 year old shock,  only problem is they show how bad the front end is
Title: Re: honda f4i rear shock
Post by: yamaha fj rider on June 08, 2012, 10:28:33 PM
Quote from: fj11.5 on June 07, 2012, 12:51:40 AM
Quote from: yamaha fj rider on June 06, 2012, 08:50:51 PM
:good2: That is a super mod. It has to work better than the stock shock and is very reasonably priced. Good work on this one thank's for the R & D and pictures!

Kurt
works much better than a standard 26 year old shock,  only problem is they show how bad the front end is

YES!!! Why is it that when fix you one problem, you find another and it never ends. Let us know what you decide. 
Title: Re: honda f4i rear shock
Post by: Yamifj1200 on June 09, 2012, 07:02:54 PM
John,
Thanks for your F4I rear shock mod info, I have been looking for a low cost rear shock for my 85 model. What year model did you use?  Looks easy enough and very straight forward.

Eric M
Title: Re: honda f4i rear shock
Post by: fj11.5 on June 09, 2012, 07:27:43 PM
hi Eric, I used a 2006 model shock with low klm , pretty sure all models bolt up the same with mods as listed , maybe the spring rates changed as some have a red spring ??  good shocks, made by showa
Title: Re: honda f4i rear shock
Post by: Dads_FJ on June 09, 2012, 07:48:49 PM
Quote from: Yamifj1200 on June 09, 2012, 07:02:54 PM
John,
Thanks for your F4I rear shock mod info, I have been looking for a low cost rear shock for my 85 model. What year model did you use?  Looks easy enough and very straight forward.

Eric M

Donor bike was a 2006 with only 5000 miles.   :good2:  I think high mileage 600cc sport bikes are a rarity!
Title: Re: honda f4i rear shock
Post by: fj11.5 on June 10, 2012, 04:05:26 AM
too true mate, ppl must swap bikes every time a new model is released , plenty of them in wrecking yards that havnt been laid down or blown up
Title: Re: honda f4i rear shock
Post by: kustom71 on June 13, 2012, 03:12:31 PM
Since im new here im gonna ask
Ive yet to dig in to the suspension
This mod will or wont work on an 89fj?
Title: Re: honda f4i rear shock
Post by: Dads_FJ on June 13, 2012, 03:34:56 PM
Sorry - Wont.  The '89 uses a different lower shock mount with different linkage etc... Although stay tuned, Randy @ RPM is working on supplying shocks for all years FJs.
Title: Re: honda f4i rear shock
Post by: Arnie on June 13, 2012, 10:14:24 PM
Yes, it WILL work on an '89.
You have to cut the "upper" eye to make a mount for a clevis that needs to be welded on.
You then mount the shock upside down.  You also have to modify the OEM Yamaha upper mount bolt and make new dogbones to control the ride height from the longer shock.

Arnie


Quote from: kustom71 on June 13, 2012, 03:12:31 PM
Since im new here im gonna ask
Ive yet to dig in to the suspension
This mod will or wont work on an 89fj?
Title: Re: honda f4i rear shock
Post by: Dads_FJ on June 14, 2012, 07:31:27 AM
I stand corrected.
Title: Re: honda f4i rear shock
Post by: yamaha fj rider on June 14, 2012, 07:57:25 PM
Quote from: fj11.5 on June 10, 2012, 04:05:26 AM
too true mate, ppl must swap bikes every time a new model is released , plenty of them in wrecking yards that havnt been laid down or blown up

If they have not been wrecked or blown up why in wrecking yard?

Kurt
Title: Re: honda f4i rear shock
Post by: fj11.5 on June 15, 2012, 05:48:26 PM
over here wrecking yards will buy bikes cheaply, no registration ,bald tyres ect from owners that needed quick cash, often they will fix minor issues and re,sell, but if nobody buys them they strip perfectly good bikes for parts,
Title: Re: honda f4i rear shock
Post by: giantkiller on June 17, 2012, 12:20:11 AM
fj11.5 I would like to see some pics of your gas canister mounting bracket. If you could. Just bought an 04 shock. Paid $85 shipped. A little more but it looked like it was brand spanking new, in the 15 pictures he had posted. Should be here wed.
Title: Re: honda f4i rear shock
Post by: fj11.5 on June 17, 2012, 06:03:29 AM
hey, thats still a bargain mate, , can take a pic tomorrow , I changed how the bracket was, now using a hose clamp welded to the old shock adjuster mount , canister fits between the rear brake master and the frame , bit of a squeeze for the hose , but no Sharp bends ,
Title: Re: honda f4i rear shock
Post by: giantkiller on June 17, 2012, 08:16:07 PM
 Thanks I would really appreciate it.
Dan

Title: Re: honda f4i rear shock
Post by: fj11.5 on June 18, 2012, 03:54:27 AM
ok , posted very crappy pics of the canister fitted, bad reflections , should of painted the clamp black , but should give the idea, , in my gallery , can't get my so called smart phone to post them on the main page
Title: Re: honda f4i rear shock
Post by: giantkiller on June 18, 2012, 10:27:05 PM
Thanks, once I figured out how to zoom in the picture(it took a while). I could see how you did it.
Title: Re: honda f4i rear shock
Post by: yamaha fj rider on June 20, 2012, 11:10:51 PM
Quote from: fj11.5 on June 15, 2012, 05:48:26 PM
over here wrecking yards will buy bikes cheaply, no registration ,bald tyres ect from owners that needed quick cash, often they will fix minor issues and re,sell, but if nobody buys them they strip perfectly good bikes for parts,
Thank's for the info Very different here in the states loads of adds for people selling there stuff.

Kurt 
Title: Re: honda f4i rear shock
Post by: fj11.5 on June 21, 2012, 06:28:33 AM
ive noticed that , even on ebay, rear gsxr wheels in the states $70.00 up to $600 for fancy chromed ones, down here $300 for a complete rim, other places $275 , for a bare one  (popcorn)
Title: Re: honda f4i rear shock
Post by: Arnie on June 21, 2012, 10:10:45 AM
Asking price is not the same a getting price. :-)
You never know what a seller will take until you make an offer.
If the seller is hungry they may take anything offered, if not they may want asking price and shipping and cc fees and vat and duty and ............
The "right" price is the one the buyer and seller agree to. :-)

Arnie



Quote from: fj11.5 on June 21, 2012, 06:28:33 AM
ive noticed that , even on ebay, rear gsxr wheels in the states $70.00 up to $600 for fancy chromed ones, down here $300 for a complete rim, other places $275 , for a bare one  (popcorn)
Title: Re: honda f4i rear shock
Post by: fj11.5 on June 21, 2012, 05:53:39 PM
thanks arnie, ill keep that in mind for if or when i can upgrade to the 5.5" rim, have a michelin pilot stored away for the upgrade, like to use it on my 4.5" rim but dont want the pinch effect  :scratch_one-s_head:
Title: Re: honda f4i rear shock
Post by: chocker on August 05, 2012, 10:45:41 AM
That sounds like it is not too hard to install. My only question would be where to source out the spacers and the eyelet bushing. Would you need two 11 mm spacers, one for each side so that it is balanced. I ask this because I am a DIYer and haven't worked much on bikes but it seems to be within my capability to do this mod. I just need to know that I have the correct parts.

Thanks,
Mark
Title: Re: honda f4i rear shock
Post by: fj11.5 on August 05, 2012, 05:14:43 PM
a pair of thick ten mm washers would work fine up top, just to keep it centered , as for the bottom eyelet another member here used bearings bought from ebay i think, thats what i swapped my original bushing  i had made for, all measurements sizes ect are on these posts  :good2: , its a good mod if on a budget or wait for rpm,s new rear shock  :good2:
Title: Re: honda f4i rear shock
Post by: chocker on August 05, 2012, 08:55:30 PM
I looked through the thread and I an a little confused. I see that the F4 shock top mount is 22mm shorter than stock but I am told to get 10 mm spacers to compensate. Would the 2 spacers have to be 12mm ID, 22mm OD and 10mm wide each? Isn't there going to be another 2mm left?  I then see that oldkdmdude is using 3 spherical bearings (GE-12E) 12mm ID, 22mm OD and 10mm wide for the top mount.  Which would be better? I am able to find the 2 needle bearings for the bottom mount (18mm x 24mm x 12mm) but for some reason I am not able to find the 2 seals (18mm x 24mm x 4mm). I have a 86 FJ. Would someone be able to tell me where I could obtain these parts as they are the only ones I am having trouble with.

Thanks,
Mark
Title: Re: honda f4i rear shock
Post by: fj11.5 on August 06, 2012, 12:16:55 AM
i used the original 2 bottom seals as i couldnt find others  :scratch_one-s_head: , and just drilled out the top bushing, as long as the spacers have the correct inner dia and width , only needed to stop sideways movement and keep the shock centered, not much room to fit anything too large  ..
Title: Re: honda f4i rear shock
Post by: chocker on August 06, 2012, 07:13:40 AM
Ok, I will drill out the top mount to fit the bolt and use 2 spherical bearings (GE-12E) 12mm ID, 22mm OD and 10mm wide for the top mount as spacers and use 2 needle bearings for the bottom mount (18mm x 24mm x 12mm). Are the seals for the bottom mount hard to remove?

Mark
Title: Re: honda f4i rear shock
Post by: fj11.5 on August 06, 2012, 07:22:33 AM
seals come out easily, just go easy as they have a metal band inside them
Title: Re: honda f4i rear shock
Post by: giantkiller on August 06, 2012, 12:56:05 PM
I ended up getting my seals from electric motor repair shop. I drilled the top and if I remember right I used the bushing from the fj shock and cut it to fit. Mounted rez to side of battery box got picks in gallery. I still don't know how to get them in post
Title: Re: honda f4i rear shock
Post by: fj11.5 on August 06, 2012, 04:38:08 PM
i like the bracket you used giant k   :good2:
Title: Re: honda f4i rear shock
Post by: giantkiller on August 06, 2012, 11:23:55 PM
Thanks sorry the picture is upside down, I just used some plumbing straps (I just wandered around the local hardware store until I found someting that would work) pipe insulation, and a piece of aluminum flat stock. The battery box mount bolt was the most natural way that the reservoir wanted to be and it works perfect.
Title: Re: honda f4i rear shock
Post by: giantkiller on August 06, 2012, 11:46:34 PM
Took the bike on a shakedown ride. Through Michigan up around the U.P.and down through WI. The bike handles great and rides smooth with the 2008 gsxr1000 front end and the Honda shock. oh and gsxr 600 wheels. Only caught my toe on the pavement a couple of times. Only problem is I don't have stock fj to compare it to. last time I rode a stock fj was when I totalled my 86 in 86. Put 14,000 miles on it in 2 1/2 months and totalled it out when a guy crashed his Honda in front of me @ somewhere around 135mph (both wearing gear and helmets. he got a spot of roadrash where his coat pulled up at the waist, I got a sprained ankle and a slight concussion)
Title: Re: honda f4i rear shock
Post by: fj11.5 on August 07, 2012, 01:03:09 AM
works well, bit more hightech than mine  :good2: , , nasty way to get rid of an fj mate, imagine that outcome in shorts and t shirt  :bad:,   should be a much comfier ride, comparing mine to a standard 89 , thats like riding a brick  that bucks  :lol:
Title: Re: honda f4i rear shock
Post by: Thmsdoyle on August 07, 2012, 03:52:28 PM
Ok have all parts required in shipping. Should have parts for upgrade to the f4i revision in a week. Looks pretty straight forward.
Title: Re: honda f4i rear shock
Post by: fj11.5 on August 07, 2012, 04:02:00 PM
its a quick and easy mod, just make sure before you start  have the center stand on something at least 10mm or more high makes it easier to put the wheel back in  :dash2:  :biggrin:
Title: Re: honda f4i rear shock
Post by: giantkiller on August 07, 2012, 04:26:53 PM
Out of all the things I've done to mine. I would have to say it was the easiest. Thanks to all the work done by others.
Thanks
Title: Re: honda f4i rear shock
Post by: fj11.5 on August 07, 2012, 04:33:57 PM
sure is, hardest part was removing the bottom bolt :scratch_one-s_head: thing on mine, only been in there since 84  :lol:, doubt anybody else had taken any shock parts off
Title: Re: honda f4i rear shock
Post by: chocker on August 07, 2012, 05:35:05 PM
So it's easier to remove the rear wheel to change the shock?
Title: Re: honda f4i rear shock
Post by: fj11.5 on August 07, 2012, 06:11:54 PM
well you dont have to if the bike is high enough on the center stand as the swing arm has to be lower to align the lower arms up
Title: Re: honda f4i rear shock
Post by: FJmonkey on August 08, 2012, 09:04:16 AM
Take the wheel off, much easier with more access and less weight to mess with getting the links to line up.
Title: Re: honda f4i rear shock
Post by: chocker on August 08, 2012, 10:32:52 AM
I am waiting for the parts and I am still in the process of picking a shock from Ebay. I looked at the lower mounting point and it doesn't look too straight forward meaning there is not just a bolt and the shock bottom. How is it removed?

Mark
Title: Re: honda f4i rear shock
Post by: fj11.5 on August 08, 2012, 04:47:26 PM
on the right hand side, bolt thingy  :lol: held in with a circlip with a washer behind it, goes trough the lower rear arm font arm and bottom shock eyelet, taps out fairly easy with weight taken off the swing arm a little, just dont belt the christ out of it, alloy can break  :scratch_one-s_head: if belted enough , it will come out , anything like mine , probably been in since leaving yamaha  (popcorn)
Title: Re: honda f4i rear shock
Post by: oldktmdude on August 08, 2012, 05:17:36 PM
   Don't forget to loosen the pinch bolts!
Title: Re: honda f4i rear shock
Post by: fj11.5 on August 08, 2012, 05:29:15 PM
woopsy,forgot to mention those, thanks olktm  :good2:
Title: Re: honda f4i rear shock
Post by: chocker on August 10, 2012, 06:12:00 AM
Still looking for a good shock. Any year preference or anything from 99 - 06 should work?

Mark
Title: Re: honda f4i rear shock
Post by: fj11.5 on August 10, 2012, 06:20:43 AM
Pretty much anything would fit out of those years, maybe different springs, or colours but wont be a big difference in them
Title: Re: honda f4i rear shock
Post by: chocker on August 10, 2012, 12:27:45 PM
I was wondering about the drilling of the top mount. Would you use a 1/2 inch drill bit because it is 12 mm. This would be slightly bigger than the bolt. Or use a slightly smaller bit and work it around to fit the bolt snugly.

Mark
Title: Re: honda f4i rear shock
Post by: Yamifj1200 on August 10, 2012, 02:00:17 PM
Take the stock upper mounting bolt and measure it with a set of calipers, then find a drill bit thats just a few thousands of an inch larger. I'd say no more than is needed to slide the stock bolt through the F4 shock's upper mount. You don't want any movement on the upper mount.
31/64" is .484" and 12mm is .472" a differance of  .012".  If you have the means try to find a 12mm brill bit that would be best. or use the 31/64'' bit and deal with the .012'' of play . Hope this helps..

Eric M
Title: Re: honda f4i rear shock
Post by: Thmsdoyle on August 10, 2012, 04:44:37 PM
 :lol:Well good news! All parts came early, and I had today off soooooooooooooo the F4i shock went in. Took me about 3.5 hrs to complete all. Ok now for some advice, what type of preload are you using on this shock. I just installed it the way it came to me. Rides well, turning response seems a bit crisper than before, is dramatically nicer ride than before. My kidneys liked that :wacko3:. So far I am very pleased for a $68.00 upgrade.
Title: Re: honda f4i rear shock
Post by: fj11.5 on August 10, 2012, 05:22:05 PM
mine was on the third preload setting when fitted, but I now use it on the lowest setting , better sag , and handles great , I'm about 74 kg 
Title: Re: honda f4i rear shock
Post by: Thmsdoyle on August 10, 2012, 06:40:14 PM
Quote from: Yamifj1200 on August 10, 2012, 02:00:17 PM
Take the stock upper mounting bolt and measure it with a set of calipers, then find a drill bit thats just a few thousands of an inch larger. I'd say no more than is needed to slide the stock bolt through the F4 shock's upper mount. You don't want any movement on the upper mount.
31/64" is .484" and 12mm is .472" a differance of  .012".  If you have the means try to find a 12mm brill bit that would be best. or use the 31/64'' bit and deal with the .012'' of play . Hope this helps..

Eric M

I used a 31/64" drill bit today during this mod. I cannot fell any sloppiness in the linkage at all.
Title: Re: honda f4i rear shock
Post by: oldktmdude on August 11, 2012, 04:38:34 AM
   Mine is also set at the lowest preload setting. I'm also around 75 kgs. Comp and rebound are also close to being backed right off. The ride and handling are far superior to the 27 year old original shock. Not to mention the low cost and ease of fitting.  Regards, Pete.
Title: Re: honda f4i rear shock
Post by: fj11.5 on August 11, 2012, 07:17:32 AM
Sounds pretty close to my settings, if only the front end was as cheap to sort out :good2:
Title: Re: honda f4i rear shock
Post by: chocker on August 11, 2012, 01:15:38 PM
I am going with a 15/32 drill bit. It is 11.91mm. I just have to run a little longer on the hole and test fit the bolt. It should work fine. I'm about 100kg and I was wondering what sort of settings I should use on the shock. Also I was looking into the GSXR rear wheel mod to upgrade to a 17" rim. I was wondering since the profile on the new rim is lower than the old rim can I get away with having a 17" rear wheel and a 16" front wheel.

Mark
Title: Re: honda f4i rear shock
Post by: fj11.5 on August 11, 2012, 04:57:22 PM
Re, wheels,  the early ones had 16" both ends ,shouldnt be too far off
Title: Re: honda f4i rear shock
Post by: FJmonkey on August 11, 2012, 06:38:59 PM
The 17" wheel is larger in diameter but the 17" tires are lower profile and tend to keep the overall diameter similar. You can play with the Gearingcommander web site and put your prior wheel/tire size in and your new one to see the calculated difference.
Title: Re: honda f4i rear shock
Post by: chocker on August 20, 2012, 09:40:22 PM
I looked it up and the 17 inch is slightly smaller in diameter. That's good. I was wondering if there is a problem with having a bias play in the front and a radial in the back.

Mark
Title: Re: honda f4i rear shock
Post by: FJmonkey on August 20, 2012, 09:48:11 PM
Quote from: chocker on August 20, 2012, 09:40:22 PM
I looked it up and the 17 inch is slightly smaller in diameter. That's good. I was wondering if there is a problem with having a bias play in the front and a radial in the back.

Mark
As long as they stick I don't see any problem. But the Radial seems to be the best choice...

Mark
Title: Re: honda f4i rear shock
Post by: chocker on August 22, 2012, 07:05:15 AM
Just put in the shock and the ride is great. I have the dampening set at factory settings and the preload set to 4. I'm 100kg and it seems to work for me. It's really well planted over the bumps. The only real problem I am having is the remote. I placed it with tie wraps hooked up to the original bracket  but it seems to be sliding off. I have to reinforce it. I was wondering if anyone had any picture of what they did for the remote. Also I was wondering how much tension should be on the chain. I verified and it seemed very straight so there doesn't seem to be a problem in that area. There is a little play with the chain but not too much. What is the distance of play there should be.

Thanks,
Mark
Title: Re: honda f4i rear shock
Post by: fj11.5 on August 22, 2012, 07:17:42 AM
there are pics if what I did to fit my remote adjusted and at least one other members way, and I think how he did it works and looks much better than mine , as for chain movement I think its about 15/25 mm from center but its late here , in bed and don't have any yamaha porn with me ( Fj manual )  :lol:
Title: Re: honda f4i rear shock
Post by: Thmsdoyle on August 22, 2012, 08:33:41 PM
Quote from: chocker on August 22, 2012, 07:05:15 AM
Just put in the shock and the ride is great. I have the dampening set at factory settings and the preload set to 4. I'm 100kg and it seems to work for me. It's really well planted over the bumps. The only real problem I am having is the remote. I placed it with tie wraps hooked up to the original bracket  but it seems to be sliding off. I have to reinforce it. I was wondering if anyone had any picture of what they did for the remote. Also I was wondering how much tension should be on the chain. I verified and it seemed very straight so there doesn't seem to be a problem in that area. There is a little play with the chain but not too much. What is the distance of play there should be.

Thanks,
Mark

I made a L shaped bracket that I bolted into the original mount for the old adjuster. I just used a hose clamp to clamp the remote reservoir to the bracket. 600 miles it has not come loose. I would post a picture but I can't seem to figure out how to post it. Give me an Pm with your email and I can send you the pics.
Title: Re: honda f4i rear shock
Post by: yamaha fj rider on August 22, 2012, 11:42:20 PM
Quote from: FJmonkey on August 20, 2012, 09:48:11 PM
Quote from: chocker on August 20, 2012, 09:40:22 PM
I looked it up and the 17 inch is slightly smaller in diameter. That's good. I was wondering if there is a problem with having a bias play in the front and a radial in the back.

Mark
As long as they stick I don't see any problem. But the Radial seems to be the best choice...

Mark
Don't mix and match. Bias front, radial on back sounds like a recipe for disaster to me. Tires are cheap falling down is not. Hope this helps.

Kurt
Title: Re: honda f4i rear shock
Post by: FJmonkey on August 23, 2012, 06:15:45 PM
Quote from: yamaha fj rider on August 22, 2012, 11:42:20 PM
Don't mix and match. Bias front, radial on back sounds like a recipe for disaster to me. Tires are cheap falling down is not. Hope this helps.

Kurt
I have already broken that taboo, when the budget forced me to make a choice. I knew I was mixing so I felt less comfortable pushing the bias front, but I still had a good ride and no issues. I avoided the dreaded mixing bullet, maybe I just got lucky. I have yet to date seen any proof that mixing is dangerous. This would take a serious complicated and controlled experiment. Maybe some joker will convince the US government to issue a grant for this study... None of the tire companies will endorse an untested concept due to liability alone. They won't even endorse mixing tires from other manufacturers (even if both are radials), go figure.... I chose to run matched tires whenever possible. Anyone know of a documented test of this theory?
Title: Re: honda f4i rear shock
Post by: yamaha fj rider on August 23, 2012, 07:00:44 PM
Radial tires should have a larger contact patch this should equate to more traction. Radial front and bias rear should be better than bias front and radial rear. Most people can handle a little rear drift but when the front tire pushes they fall down. I hate to see people fall down over a simple tire as long as they are informed to the risk of this match up. A good sticky bias may have more grip than a more mileage oriented radial. If you can't afford a new tire at this time, fine just ride easy until you can. FJmonkey I think you have this common sense many do not. Waiting on mirrors and front brake lines for my FJ. Hay do you have that pink stripe yet???  (popcorn)

Kurt     
Title: Re: honda f4i rear shock
Post by: FJmonkey on August 23, 2012, 07:11:14 PM
Quote from: yamaha fj rider on August 23, 2012, 07:00:44 PM
Hay do you have that pink stripe yet???  (popcorn)
Kurt     
Many already think I am am deep into the pink. In some ways I might agree. The teasing is part of the game many play and enjoy. The contact patch is why I kept cognizant of the mixed tires. Maybe I am just a freak that is worried about this detail but is seems quite normal to me. Don't we all watch the "Big Bang Theory"????
Title: Re: honda f4i rear shock
Post by: chocker on August 23, 2012, 07:15:39 PM
The shock is on but there is a problem with the preload. I turned the collar clockwise to the highest setting which I believe is 7 and I'm getting a rider sag of 80 mm and a static sag of 45 mm. I know that I am turning it in the right direction because I tried it the other way and there was a greater distance for the sage. This seems to be way off what is normal. I weigh about 220 lbs (100 kg).

Mark
Title: Re: honda f4i rear shock
Post by: yamaha fj rider on August 23, 2012, 07:31:57 PM
Quote from: FJmonkey on August 23, 2012, 07:11:14 PM
Quote from: yamaha fj rider on August 23, 2012, 07:00:44 PM
Hay do you have that pink stripe yet???  (popcorn)
Kurt    
Many already think I am am deep into the pink. In some ways I might agree. The teasing is part of the game many play and enjoy. The contact patch is why I kept cognizant of the mixed tires. Maybe I am just a freak that is worried about this detail but is seems quite normal to me. Don't we all watch the "Big Bang Theory"????
If you know to be careful with this set up and use your head you will be fine most don't. Watch the BIG BANG you are not that old.  Isn't pink is the new red?

Kurt
Title: Re: honda f4i rear shock
Post by: FJmonkey on August 23, 2012, 07:49:28 PM
Quote from: yamaha fj rider on August 23, 2012, 07:31:57 PM
If you know to be careful with this set up and use your head you will be fine most don't. Watch the BIG BANG you are not that old.  Isn't pink is the new red
Kurt
Stop drinking the OEM Koolaid, and yes, any Red can be made Pink if you dilute it, I am Not Diluted (disillusioned maybe) ... Big Bang is not age related, it is how some very tech based people think. The show has some extreme Hollywood stereotypes. The Red Power Ranger is 45 and thinks he is still 25.... Well maybe not 25...  Maybe 30 something... But loves his FJ Kookalooo any time he can get it...
Title: Re: honda f4i rear shock
Post by: ribbert on August 24, 2012, 08:19:20 AM
Quote from: FJmonkey on August 23, 2012, 06:15:45 PM
Quote from: yamaha fj rider on August 22, 2012, 11:42:20 PM
Don't mix and match. Bias front, radial on back sounds like a recipe for disaster to me. Tires are cheap falling down is not. Hope this helps.

Kurt
I have already broken that taboo, when the budget forced me to make a choice. I knew I was mixing so I felt less comfortable pushing the bias front, but I still had a good ride and no issues. I avoided the dreaded mixing bullet, maybe I just got lucky. I have yet to date seen any proof that mixing is dangerous. This would take a serious complicated and controlled experiment. Maybe some joker will convince the US government to issue a grant for this study... None of the tire companies will endorse an untested concept due to liability alone. They won't even endorse mixing tires from other manufacturers (even if both are radials), go figure.... I chose to run matched tires whenever possible. Anyone know of a documented test of this theory?

Prior to my rear wheel conversion, I ran several combinations of radial/bias tyres (radial on 17"front)   No big deal, handled well enough, until I fitted a Sport Demon after 2 Macadams, within minutes of riding out of the tyre shop I pulled over convinced they had left the wheel loose, they hadn't. Checked the frame bolts, fine.  It was scary to ride and ANY imperfection in the road, particularly longitudinal ones, felt like it was about to spit me off.  Hold a line through a corner, forget it, it was more like choose a side of the road and try and stay between the centreline and the edge.  Cross the overbanding and it would jump half a lane.  Having repeatedly checked everything on the bike that could cause such a terrible trait I concluded that my new back tyre simply didn't like my current front tyre.

There was nothing wrong with the Sport Demon and it was the same size as the Macadams but was sufficiently different so as not to be compatible with the front.  I sort of got used to it, or at least could ride around it, but what a pig.  Or, as someone put it, like riding a rubber cow.  The minute I got rid of that tyre, the bike was back to normal.

I would rate how the bike handled and braked as dangerous.

So, sometimes you can, sometimes you can't.

Noel
Title: Re: honda f4i rear shock
Post by: yamaha fj rider on August 24, 2012, 11:26:20 PM
I have only mixed radial front (avon) and bias (bridgestone factory tire) rear once. Doing some tuning and time on dyno finished late had to close up shop for the night and did not want to do a tire swap at 11:00 pm. Rode it home then back to work the next day. Rode fine but took it very easy. Not just because of the mix and match but that rear tire went through hell while bike was on the dyno. That next day was a Saturday and super busy did not have time to give the old tire a proper send off. Let one of the tech's swap out the rear tire and he scratched my rim.  :dash2: That was the last time I let someone else work on it. Coincidence I think not.  :good:

Kurt
Title: Re: honda f4i rear shock
Post by: chocker on August 25, 2012, 12:42:11 PM
Once I have all the parts for the 17 inch wheel mod I will buy the radials for the front and the rear. The shock is on but there is a problem with the preload. I turned the collar clockwise to the highest setting which I believe is 7 and I'm getting a rider sag of 80 mm and a static sag of 45 mm. I know that I am turning it in the right direction because I tried it the other way and there was a greater distance for the sage. This seems to be way off what is normal. I weigh about 220 lbs (100 kg).

Mark
Title: Re: honda f4i rear shock
Post by: Arnie on August 26, 2012, 08:20:33 PM
Mark,

I weigh about the same and have only about 30mm sag.  Do you think the nitrogen may have been released from the remote?  It does contribute part of the total springing of the shock. 

Arnie

Quote from: chocker on August 25, 2012, 12:42:11 PM
Once I have all the parts for the 17 inch wheel mod I will buy the radials for the front and the rear. The shock is on but there is a problem with the preload. I turned the collar clockwise to the highest setting which I believe is 7 and I'm getting a rider sag of 80 mm and a static sag of 45 mm. I know that I am turning it in the right direction because I tried it the other way and there was a greater distance for the sage. This seems to be way off what is normal. I weigh about 220 lbs (100 kg).

Mark
Title: Re: honda f4i rear shock
Post by: chocker on August 26, 2012, 08:22:59 PM
How would I be able to verify this?

Mark
Title: Re: honda f4i rear shock
Post by: Arnie on August 26, 2012, 08:34:34 PM
You'd probably have to take the shock to a suspension shop that can put a gauge on the valve and add gas if necessary.  Start by making sure that all the fittings are tight.

Arnie

Quote from: chocker on August 26, 2012, 08:22:59 PM
How would I be able to verify this?

Mark
Title: Re: honda f4i rear shock
Post by: chocker on August 26, 2012, 08:37:50 PM
When I got it, it seemed to be tight. I checked the connection for the remote to the shock and it wouldn't budge. There didn't seem to be anything loose around the dampening screw either. Where is the valve on the CBR600 shock to check this. I am just curious, I won't check the pressure myself.

Mark
Title: Re: honda f4i rear shock
Post by: chocker on August 30, 2012, 08:11:29 PM
I pulled the shock and it turned out it was set at 2. I went to a suspension shop and they crancked to 7. I installed it and it is way better. I will test the sag soon and find out what it is.

Mark
Title: Re: honda f4i rear shock
Post by: giantkiller on August 30, 2012, 09:32:21 PM
I'm about 280lbs and I had mine set at 7 and it was way too stif. I think I'm at 3. Still trying to sort out the carbs. Then I'll set the suspension.
Title: Re: honda f4i rear shock
Post by: chocker on August 30, 2012, 09:36:32 PM
I was at 2 at the beginning and when I sat on the bike it felt really droopy. Once it was at 7 it held up. I set the dampening and rebound to stock settings and it drives great. Very smooth on the bumps. We've definately got a lot of bumps on our roads in Quebec. It's a big improvement compared to the stock shock.

Mark
Title: Re: honda f4i rear shock
Post by: movenon on September 05, 2012, 10:54:17 AM
Quote from: Arnie on June 13, 2012, 10:14:24 PM
Yes, it WILL work on an '89.
You have to cut the "upper" eye to make a mount for a clevis that needs to be welded on.
You then mount the shock upside down.  You also have to modify the OEM Yamaha upper mount bolt and make new dogbones to control the ride height from the longer shock.

Arnie


Quote from: kustom71 on June 13, 2012, 03:12:31 PM
Since im new here im gonna ask
Ive yet to dig in to the suspension
This mod will or wont work on an 89fj?
OK, winter is coming and I am giving some thought to cleaning and modifying my 1990 FJ 1200. I am considering going to a GSXR rear wheel and while back there I will pull apart the swing arm and shock to clean and inspect (bike has 32,000 miles). The F4 shock mod looks interesting. Are there any photo's of one that has had a clevis mount welded on it? Do you have to cut the eye off down flush? And how much were the dog bones modified. Just looking for "heads up" info. I know all this will probably come to light when it is pulled apart. Sometimes it's better to ask first. Being retired I keep the costs down and in 65 years have learned to fabricate decently.
Also as I notice that you can pick up entire swing arm Assembly's pretty cheap. Would it be of any benefit to get an older swing arm assembly and use that rather than modding the shock ? I suppose there was a reason Yamaha changed the swing arm in 1988. Things to ponder.... Nice thread to read.
"if you are lost, go faster" "never ask for directions" " always smile"
Title: Re: honda f4i rear shock
Post by: Arnie on September 05, 2012, 06:48:01 PM
Last Q first:  I think the main reason Yam went to a steel swingarm was cost. 
So, an older Aluminum swingarm may be a good change to make.

I'll take some pics (if I can get visual access) and post them.
I cut the upper eye at about the centerline and welded the clevis to that.
This provided a large wide support and kept the weld a bit further away
from the body of the shock and the gas enclosed within.

The dogbones need to be made shorter to raise the ride height. 
Exactly how short they need to be will be dependent on tire/wheel
used, OA length of your shock, and your choice of ride height.
I assembled the whole rear end, put the bike on the centerstand,
and then determined my dogbone length, and made new dogbones.

Arnie


Title: Re: honda f4i rear shock
Post by: movenon on September 05, 2012, 08:43:42 PM
Thanks for the info.! I would like to do the conversion and trying to also feed idea's out for the later model FJ's. I will do a little digging now for an early swing arm. I see them advertised and the demand has to be between a negative number and zero....
In contributing information on the f4i shock, this site is interesting   http://cbrforum.com/forum/how-mechanical-40/how-rear-spring-change-66943/. (http://cbrforum.com/forum/how-mechanical-40/how-rear-spring-change-66943/.) More to follow I hope.  :)
Title: Re: honda f4i rear shock
Post by: RichBaker on September 05, 2012, 08:48:20 PM
Quote from: movenon on September 05, 2012, 08:43:42 PM
Thanks for the info.! I would like to do the conversion and trying to also feed idea's out for the later model FJ's. I will do a little digging now for an early swing arm. I see them advertised and the demand has to be between a negative number and zero....
In contributing information on the f4i shock, this site is interesting   http://cbrforum.com/forum/how-mechanical-40/how-rear-spring-change-66943/. (http://cbrforum.com/forum/how-mechanical-40/how-rear-spring-change-66943/.) More to follow I hope.  :)
They changed to a steel swingarm in '91.... The 1st 3 gens are Al.
Title: Re: honda f4i rear shock
Post by: movenon on September 05, 2012, 09:38:56 PM
You are correct. My 1990 is AL.. I like the idea of keeping it so it would be back to welding a clevis adapter on the shock. Think I can handle that, now I am looking into spring rates. I don't weigh 150 lbs... :). The bike is heavier than the Honda. Also I plan on more "touring" than sport riding. I notice the F4i's stroke is 60mm (2.36") , I can't locate the FJ rear shock stroke yet. That stroke number is from Olin so it might not be the stock number, its just the best info I have right now. Lots to consider.
Title: Re: honda f4i rear shock
Post by: jscgdunn on September 09, 2012, 03:40:18 PM
Some help here:

http://www.bulkky.com/honda-motorcycle-information/cbr600/cbr600f4i-01-03/cbr600f4i-01-02-03-rear-suspension-compression-rebound-damping (http://www.bulkky.com/honda-motorcycle-information/cbr600/cbr600f4i-01-03/cbr600f4i-01-02-03-rear-suspension-compression-rebound-damping)
Title: Re: honda f4i rear shock
Post by: movenon on September 09, 2012, 06:55:24 PM
Thanks for the info.. It will help in the set up. Today I bought a F4i shock off flea bay with 6000 miles of time on it for 69.00 to the front door. This winter I will get into the conversion on my 1990 FJ. I am now looking for some GSXR "bits" for a rear wheel conversion as I will probably be due a new rear tire next year anyhow.  just never ends and that's the good news...... The bad is I will probably have to get a job.
Title: Re: honda f4i rear shock
Post by: bigbore2 on September 17, 2012, 03:55:09 PM
Looks like the top mount of the F4i shock can be fitted with the bushing/spacer from the original shock.  Mine [84-1100].  The original shock top mount has a bushing of 50 mm length and 12mm ID which will work perfect if cut to fit to take up space on either side of the F4i shock top mount. The bushing on my 06 F4i top mount measured at 28.5 mm. 50 mm total space to fill means one 10 mm spacer and one 11 mm spacer made from the original shock bushing with 1/2 mm play leftover. This bushing is hardened steel so a precision cut is needed here, this is not a hack saw in the garage type cut. Should have this done on Fri. so if anything changes I will let you know.
Title: Re: honda f4i rear shock
Post by: giantkiller on September 18, 2012, 12:08:41 AM
Quote from: bigbore2 on September 17, 2012, 03:55:09 PM
Looks like the top mount of the F4i shock can be fitted with the bushing/spacer from the original shock.  Mine [84-1100].  The original shock top mount has a bushing of 50 mm length and 12mm ID which will work perfect if cut to fit to take up space on either side of the F4i shock top mount. The bushing on my 06 F4i top mount measured at 28.5 mm. 50 mm total space to fill means one 10 mm spacer and one 11 mm spacer made from the original shock bushing with 1/2 mm play leftover. This bushing is hardened steel so a precision cut is needed here, this is not a hack saw in the garage type cut. Should have this done on Fri. so if anything changes I will let you know.
I used the fj bushing also worked great.
Title: Re: honda f4i rear shock
Post by: bigbore2 on September 18, 2012, 01:22:21 PM
Thanx for the info, Giantkiller.  I would add that the two bushings/spacers need to be the same length, so instead of one at 10 mm and one at 11 mm like I posted before , I would change that to 2 at 10.5 and that they need to be a loose fit so the top shock mount can rotate the couple of degrees it needs to as the rear wheel moves up and down.
Title: Re: honda f4i rear shock
Post by: jscgdunn on September 22, 2012, 09:11:07 AM
Quote from: giantkiller on September 18, 2012, 12:08:41 AM
Quote from: bigbore2 on September 17, 2012, 03:55:09 PM
Looks like the top mount of the F4i shock can be fitted with the bushing/spacer from the original shock.  Mine [84-1100].  The original shock top mount has a bushing of 50 mm length and 12mm ID which will work perfect if cut to fit to take up space on either side of the F4i shock top mount. The bushing on my 06 F4i top mount measured at 28.5 mm. 50 mm total space to fill means one 10 mm spacer and one 11 mm spacer made from the original shock bushing with 1/2 mm play leftover. This bushing is hardened steel so a precision cut is needed here, this is not a hack saw in the garage type cut. Should have this done on Fri. so if anything changes I will let you know.
I used the fj bushing also worked great.

The no-cutting-or-purchasingparts method:
I heated the top original F4 bushing from the inside using a propane torch; just hot enough to break the bonds of the rubber.  Then using the FJ bushing I pressed out the f4 bushing in a vise.  The FJ bushing is slightly larger than the F4 bushing.  Final fit is very tight. 

The same method can be used on the bottom mount.  Using heat as above, press out the original FJ bushing and clean off with wire wheel.  Then drill out the bottom mount of the F4 shock and press in the original FJ bushing.  You will need a pretty good drill press to drill this large hole, which is just under 1 inch.
Title: Re: honda f4i rear shock
Post by: Brian on September 22, 2012, 08:51:21 PM
Ok you guys have convinced me , I have my 05 f4i shock coming $112.00 from the U S of A to Sydney so pretty happy with that ,think ill go with the upside version like Arnie says to get to the adjustments easier , but decide that upon fittment i guess ?.
I weigh about 85k withgear on so 3 on preload and 1 on dampning sounds like the starting point from what ive been reading here
Sent my forks to a local guy called Shock Treatment $600.00 & feels real nice although ive Still got original 16" wheels on mine & running with Battlax's & think i do alright ,starting to question my ability now, :dash2:
So maybe im not havin a go after all ,????  :cray:
Cant wait to put rear shock in  :yahoo:

Cheers to all info provided ,great site , great people go hand in hand with great Bike !! :drinks:
Title: Re: honda f4i rear shock
Post by: Goetz on October 09, 2012, 09:27:45 PM
Shock= $40 shipped (some retard had spraypainted it black, on ONE side... sigh. it works great tho)
2 bearings for the lower mount- $18 shipped
butane torch
assorted wrenches, drivers, etc.
two hours of my life.
:yahoo: :yahoo: :yahoo:
and now i have a bike that doesn't wallow like a fat lazy pig.
Took her for a short ride and WOW what a difference.
found out the PO had CUT the oem spring down, it was like riding a hardtail. felt EVERY little bump. Now much less so.
She sits RIGHT now!! and way more fun to ride. Blue ridge parkway this weekend!!!! maybe deals gap on the way back home, might as well i guess.
BTW, i highly suggest using a piece of thin spring steel, something real thin and flexible, to work in between the f4I top mount bushing and its rubber sleeve in between blasts from the torch.. then try to get some lube in there before you press the f4 bushing out with the oem fj one and PRESTO instant spacers. Iforgot to take pics till i was done, kinda got in the zone.
before
(http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8461/8052063078_dc54017e80_b.jpg) (http://www.flickr.com/photos/87853494@N07/8052063078/)
DSC00238 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/87853494@N07/8052063078/#) by goetzjordan (http://www.flickr.com/people/87853494@N07/), on Flickr

after

(http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8033/8072693793_4148919256_b.jpg) (http://www.flickr.com/photos/87853494@N07/8072693793/)
DSC00253 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/87853494@N07/8072693793/#) by goetzjordan (http://www.flickr.com/people/87853494@N07/), on Flickr

btw im about 5'9" 230lbs, and it feels pretty good.
Title: Re: honda f4i rear shock
Post by: fj11.5 on October 09, 2012, 09:46:42 PM
money and time well spent, , now she corners like an Fj should  :good2:
Title: Re: honda f4i rear shock
Post by: racerman_27410 on October 09, 2012, 09:47:34 PM
Looking good.... its going to be a whole lot more fun on the BRP now for sure!


KOokaloo!


Frank
Title: Re: honda f4i rear shock
Post by: Goetz on October 09, 2012, 10:02:32 PM
Maybe deals gap on my next long weekend,  :good2:
Im gonba have to name her soon.
Title: Re: honda f4i rear shock
Post by: racerman_27410 on October 09, 2012, 10:04:24 PM
Quote from: Goetz on October 09, 2012, 10:02:32 PM
Maybe deals gap on my next long weekend,  :good2:
Im gonba have to name her soon.


yes you definitely need to take a whole weekend for the Deals gap experience.... you are going to love the FJ on the Cherohala skyway..... it's a great road for the FJ!


KOokaloo!
Title: Re: honda f4i rear shock
Post by: giantkiller on January 17, 2014, 11:01:59 AM
Just thought I would add. That I put a 900lb Eibach spring on mine for $65 off fleabay. The guys from Honda forum said the stock spring is 780lb. And that the 900 is about max for stock valving. And different colors are same spring.
Title: Re: honda f4i rear shock
Post by: Easterntide on April 25, 2014, 01:03:39 PM
Just to get my ducks in a row:

I've got a 91 fj1200

For the shock mod I need the following items in total:

1)   Qty 1 - 06 Honda Cbr f4i Shock.
2)   Qty 2 - 10mm spacers (for top)
3)   Qty 2 - 18mm x 24mm x 12mm needle bearings (for bottom)
4)   Qty 2 - 18mm x 24mm x 4mm seals (for bottom)

if so...ebay here i come :-)

thanks all.

Don
Title: Re: honda f4i rear shock
Post by: Easterntide on April 25, 2014, 01:49:40 PM
or alternately has anyone ever tested/seen/tried one of the chinese variations of the shock?

http://www.ebay.com/itm/320mm-Motorcycle-Scooter-Rear-Suspension-Air-Shock-Absorber-Spring-Clevis-End-/271458585812?pt=Motorcycles_Parts_Accessories&fits=Make%3AYamaha (http://www.ebay.com/itm/320mm-Motorcycle-Scooter-Rear-Suspension-Air-Shock-Absorber-Spring-Clevis-End-/271458585812?pt=Motorcycles_Parts_Accessories&fits=Make%3AYamaha)|Model%3AFJ1200&hash=item3f34314cd4&vxp=mtr

seems too easy almost. unless its a very bad decision....

Title: Re: honda f4i rear shock
Post by: Country Joe on April 25, 2014, 03:33:33 PM
Quote from: Easterntide on April 25, 2014, 01:49:40 PM
or alternately has anyone ever tested/seen/tried one of the chinese variations of the shock?

http://www.ebay.com/itm/320mm-Motorcycle-Scooter-Rear-Suspension-Air-Shock-Absorber-Spring-Clevis-End-/271458585812?pt=Motorcycles_Parts_Accessories&fits=Make%3AYamaha (http://www.ebay.com/itm/320mm-Motorcycle-Scooter-Rear-Suspension-Air-Shock-Absorber-Spring-Clevis-End-/271458585812?pt=Motorcycles_Parts_Accessories&fits=Make%3AYamaha)|Model%3AFJ1200&hash=item3f34314cd4&vxp=mtr

seems too easy almost. unless its a very bad decision....



That would be a complete waste of money. Those are intended to go on the back of Chinese scooters and motorcycles. There are plenty of options outlined here on the forum.
Joe
Title: Re: honda f4i rear shock
Post by: Bud Wilkinson on September 29, 2019, 12:24:57 AM
So in order to keep the ride height relationships and allow the rear wheel to clear the ground properly on the center stand, has anyone taken the F4i shock appart and made a 15mm top out stop spacer for it?
This seems to be a better way to go even though it requires a bit more work. Then use the pre load, sag and damping adjustments to get the turn it better rather than jacking up the rear of the bike.

Bud
Title: Re: honda f4i rear shock
Post by: Bert 16v on January 12, 2020, 08:08:19 AM
I'm very interested in this shock-mod, the shock on my FJ is an airpump at the moment.
Does anyone has pictures how this shock is mounted on a 93?

Arjan