So, how do I?

[calbigbird]

I am working an 82 CBX that has apparently been asleep since the early 90's. I cleaned the swamp water (old fuel) and rust from the fuel tank and got the propeller to spin. The rear shock holds air pressure for about 60 seconds before it bleeds down. I managed the perform a shock-ectomy and the shock is now lying on my garage floor. I sourced a replacement shock from Used CBX parts and it should be on the way tomorrow.

So, what is the easiest way to keep the damping rod available to maneuver it out the side of the bike when I reinstall the shock? I noticed when I had the old shock half way out and had to move it back, the damping rod had fallen down and I was not able to get at it to pull it back out the side.

I know there is an answer out there. Thanks in advance.

Craig