Has anyone else ever broken the schreader valve on their lift coilovers? I just noticed today that I cracked mine almost all the way off! It's just barely starting to seep fluid, but I know I only have a matter of days before pressure is totally gone. Has anyone ever had to replace this valve or know where to get a new one? I don't want to have to go through Fabtech to get it if I don't have to, plus, time is of the essence here.

 

Looks like this is a little late but... Yes, many people have busted them. Chances are that it hit the lower a-arm while turning at full droop. If you are leaking "fluid" that is no good. That means that shock oil has passed by the seal that separates the nitrogen from the fluid. You probably need a new seal. Some auto parts stores or hardware stores may have a replacement schrader valve. You will no doubt have to get the seal from Fabtech. I use the SAW setup, but you can see a writeup on my website that shows how to rebuild the shocks http://www.bajataco.com/sawrebuild1.html (I imagine the Fabtechs are similar). You will need to recharge the nitrogen after you fix the seal and schrader. This can usually be done at a motorcycle shop that has nitrogen. I would recommend that you try running the coilover with the schrader valve facing inboard. If it will clear the lower arm when the suspension cycles, it will be much more protected. I have been running mine like this ever since I busted a schrader.

 

Thanks for the reply. I found a new schrader through my work (I work for a tire/auto repair company) and ordered it. Cost me about a dollar for one. If it works out I think I will order about a half dozen more to have on hand should I need one again.
I found a guy pretty local that will do the recharge for $10 per side, so that sounds like a pretty fair price. Your writeup of the rebuild is great! I will tag that page for reference in the future.