Air shocks don't need much air to work, so just a small leak will lose the high pressure. Not sure what fittings are use on these shocks now, but I always use a Swimming pool lubricant for any "O" ring as such. Magic Lube is one. It helps in not cracking of the rubber. Some use a "compressing fitting", so make sure all contact areas are clean before installing. I have never had a balloon in the shocks fail, unless cut.