Can-Am DS 450 2008, Shop Manual

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Section 08 CHASSIS
Subsection 03 (FRONT SUSPENSION)
Completely push down the shock rod then re-
lease.
NOTE: Because of gas pressure, strong resis-
tance is felt when compressing shock.
The shock should extend unassisted. Check that
it moves smoothly and with uniform resistance.
Any of the following conditions will denote a de-
fective shock:
– A skip or hang back when reversing stroke at
mid travel.
– Seizing or binding condition except at extreme
end of either stroke.
– A gurgling noise after completing one full com-
pression and extension stroke.
If suspecting a shock is freezing, place it in a freez-
er (temperature below 0°C (32°F)) for 4 hours.
Push down on rod and note its resistance. If
shock is frozen it will be much more difficult to
compress than one in normal condition.
Replace shock if any of these conditions are
found.
On both ends, check the bushings for excessive
wear or other damages. Replace shock absorber
if necessary.
Shock Absorber Assembly
Extend the piston rod.
Install spring with the color code upward.
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1. Color code area
Install rod protector and spring stopper.
Install the adjusting ring.
Shock Absorber Installation
Install the shock absorber with the rebound ad-
juster rearward.
Position bolt heads as follow:
SHOCK ABSORBER BOLT HEAD POSITION
Upper shock absorber bolt Forward
Lower shock absorber bolt Rearward
Adjust
SPRING PRELOAD
, see procedure at the
beginning of this section.
UPPER SUSPENSION ARM
Upper Suspension Arm Inspection
Check upper suspension arm for:
– Bending
– Cracks
– Pitting
– Other damages.
Replace as required.
Move upper suspension arm from side to side and
up and down. There should be no noticeable play
in bushings.
If necessary, remove suspension arm and inspect
pivot bushings and sleeves for wear or damages.
Replace bushings and/or sleeves if necessary.
Upper Suspension Arm Removal
Place vehicle on a level surface.
Apply parking brake.
Loosen wheel lug nuts.
Lift the front of vehicle.
Remove wheel.
Detach brake hose from upper suspension arm.
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1. Upper suspension arm
2. Brake hose
3. Screws to remove
Remove bolt securing upper ball joint.
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