The
Spax "V" series gas strut/shocks offer a combination of
performance valving (nonadjustable), shortened rod length (allows
for use with lower springs) and a very affordable price.
The internalas of the strut consists of a small gas charge to help
absorb shocks in that it is compressable unlike the oil.
Actually,
Many shock absorbers are gas-filled to reduce foaming as their piston is forced through the
fluid, and have a ?floating? piston to separate the fluid from the gas. This helps eliminate
performance fade to maintain good ride and handling characteristics, even in demanding
driving conditions. (Tirerack)
Basically, all dampers work by turning motion into heat. In this, they are similar to brakes. Now, consider the brake for a moment. Under normal conditions, the temperature of the brake is pretty low, and pads and discs will last a long time. But on the race track, the brakes are under constant use, and heat builds up quickly. Pads and discs tend to lose performance and wear out quickly under such conditions. In fact, the same thing can happen to dampers as they are pushed to their limit. Worst case, the oil will actually "boil" and cause "shock fade."
Putting uprated springs with stock dampers is a bit like the racing scenario, in that the dampers are going to be working hard all the time, and not given a chance to dissipate or manage the heat that they generate. I think we're on to something with this heat theory, but it sure would be nice to get a real techie on it.
