hey do i even need to change my settings from stock? if i do what do i need to do

You need to set your sag first then adjust as needed. There is a sticky at the top of this sub-forum, check it out.

do yourself a favor and set your sag to your weight. here is a link on a how to set sag (http://www.sportrider.com/tech/146_9508_tech/)

then you could mess with the other stuff. here is another link on suspensions and tuning (http://www.sportrider.com/tech/146_0006_susp_lingo/). i know its alot to read. but everyone rides different. there is no magical setting for everyone. its all trial and error for the rider.