Old shocks - how do they wear?

[tymill]

I've rebuilt my gold tub's original gold shocks with new red rings and new black o-rings under the caps. I was careful of the threads, and used plenty of greenslime...

However, the shocks still lose fluid when run hard - mostly weeping out from around the shafts.

The fluid inside turns grey and metallic-ey when I check it after a meet ( as well as being a bit low). I've noticed that the insides of the shock bores have worn away the anodised surface in places - revealing shiny aluminium.

Are these old shocks just worn? beyond repair? Or am I missing something here?....

Might the shock shafts themselves be the worn components too? They are still shiny and look evenly chromed.

What might be causing the shocks to wear like this? Is this a common way for old shocks to announce their imminent retirement?

Thanks - any feedback's useful!

Cheers,
Ty