suspension help

[bigredrider200]

hey, my 1983 200 big red's front suspension is not what it used to be. i push down and it stays down, i pull up and it stays up somewhat. all i know that the suspension is a telescopic style, and i know 0 about suspension. so if you could give any advice on how to fix it to complete working order it would be greatly appreciated
thanks
brad

[jeswinehart]

my clymers manual for 85 big red says
" sping controled-hydraulically damped-telescopic fork, b-4 suspecting major damage- drain the old fork oil and put new in".
your locale dealer should be able to tell you the correct amount + weight for the year of your trike.
i always try the simple fix first,,, then proceed as needed.

good luck,,, john

[Mobular]

Sounds like the dampers are shot and the plastic/nylon collars will need attention too...

[Dirtcrasher]

The damping rods are merely aluminum tubes with holes in them to allow the oil to assist in damping. There are bushings in there that need oil to keep them plush. Sounds like stiction, nope not friction or sticking but stiction, this is whe a suspension sticks in a given part of the stroke. They really do come apart easy, do this clean them up and add new oil. Replace any worn components - they're aren't many in that fork. Not that you have them but please - everyone the air valves on top of your forks are bleeders not a place to add air!