I'm having a problem with shocks that are only a few months old leaking oil. They are Gabriel GasSLX shocks. I changed them in August thereabouts. The dealer says it is not a warrantable problem because it is "misting" which is normal, but I've had Gabriel shocks that last 2+ years without leaking any oil.

I had to change one shock that seized, but could only get a regular Gabriel shock, which is the same style shock that lasted several years. This one has started to leak after 4 weeks!

Has Gabriel really gone downhill that much over the past while?

Problem is I'm sure there's regulations out there that prohibit leaking shocks, I know the truck will fail a safety. Will it fail a level 1 with shocks like this?

 

§396.5 Lubrication.

Every motor carrier shall ensure that each motor vehicle subject to its control is—

(a) properly lubricated; and

(b) free of oil and grease leaks.

hmmmmm....

 

If the shock is damp in the area where the pushrod disappears into the lower tube when the shock is extended... that is misting. If the fluid is running down from under the dust cover, that is a LEAK. Do you have pics? Call Meritor Customer Service Center: 888-725-9355

 

Dealer said they'll change them on warranty, I guess they didn't realize how much oil I was talking about. On the new shock it completely covers the bottom half of the shock, the eye, and some of the shock mount.