Just got a Katana shock. Got a couple questions.

[SeriousGeorge]

Ok, I wasn't planning on getting a shock until I got progressive springs, but I found a low mileage 2005 shock on ebay for a good price. Would it cause any problems installing the shock without upgrading the front suspension first?

I didn't get a toolkit when I bought the bike. What's the name of the wrench I need to adjust the preload? I tried searching, but I couldn't find the name of that spanner. Is there a better quality aftermarket part I can get or should I just try and get the crappy oem one?

Anybody have recommendations for a starting point on the shock settings? It looks like it came at 4 for preload and 2 for rebound which I think is stock. I'm about 250 pounds and mostly use the bike for all-weather commuting, nothing super aggressive. Also, what would you recommend for the oil weight when I go to progressive springs in front? I want a better ride for my weight, but here in Oregon I still need it to do ok in the rain.  

Thanks!

[MarkusN]

For the tool look here

[JamesG]

You should do the forks first or at the same time.  A stiffer rear spring pushing on the weak front suspension can do wierd things to the steering geometry.

If you don't/can't do the springs at the same time, back the shocks spring preload off to position 2 or 3. This will be mushy, but will balance the front and rear end.

[3imo]

jamesG -   please explain if you can how the rear shock adjustment for the GS works.  what does it do?

My buddy and I were arguing about this.  He thinks it adjusts height, I think it stiffens/loosens the rear supension.

can you back me up or am I just and idiot?

[SeriousGeorge]

Thanks James, that's just what I was curious about. I need to rebuild the front anyway. It doesn't look like it's leaking oil, but the dust seals look like hell. Not sure about the oil seals. Speaking of which, does anyone have a good source of cheap seals or should I just get them at the stealership? Any recommendations on for gaiters? I think I'm going to put them on. Do I just get a standard one for a 37mm fork, or do I need anything specific?

Thanks for the info on the shock tool. I tried looking up adjustable hook spanners on the web and it looks like they're going to be a lot more expensive than the shock itself was. Probably not worth it for something I'll use maybe once a year. I guess I'll just pick up the cheap looking oem version.

[LimaXray]

Appearntly there are cheap seals on eBay that will work