The 2008 55R and DJ forks came fitted with a sealed hydraulic cartridge made by Suntour. These dampers were prone to failure due to the cartridge sucking in lower leg lubrication oil in to the damper and the damper subsequently locking out as there was no longer an air gap inside.
Here is the official cartridge fix where the sealed damper was converted to 'open bath' using the following procedure. Once completed the fork doesn't fail and will give years of solid reliable performance.
WARNING
The cartridge has pressure inside, making a hole in it can cause a sudden release of air and oil.
Wear safety goggles.
This procedure should only be completed by competent mechanics.
