Manual for my 1998 xplorer lists three different part numbers for rear swingarm spring, the one that goes over the shock. The three springs have different load capacities. The spring on my xplorer is the stock red one which I assume is the lightest load capacity of 190 pounds. I'm only seeing one spring available from the retailers I've looked at. The spring on mine seems really soft. I'm about 210. I have a 2004 Sportsman for comparison. When I get on it the rear drops very little but when I get on the xplorer the rear drops a lot, and if I carry much of anything on the rear I'm concerned that I may sometimes bottom out against the chain.

Anyone know of a retailer that sells the higher load capacity springs?

 

Is there any oil on the shock? You may have a blown shock, with your bike being that old

 

Shock is still good. Spring just seems weak. It squats a lot when I get on.