The Fox 32 Performance Elite suspension fork is a high-performance, lightweight model designed for cross-country and trail riding. Rebuilding this fork is essential for maintaining optimal performance, extending its lifespan, and ensuring rider safety. This guide offers a detailed walkthrough for rebuilding the 32 Performance Elite, including preparation, disassembly, inspection, reassembly, and tuning for peak performance.
Tools Required:
- 10mm and 26mm socket or wrench
- 32mm socket (top cap removal)
- Torque wrench [paid link]
- Pick or dental tool (for seal removal)
- Clean workbench and lint-free cloths
- Suspension oil (Fox 20wt Gold, Fox 5wt Teflon)
- New dust wipers and foam rings (specific to Fox 32)
- Fox rebuild kit (or OEM-quality seals and o-rings)
- Isopropyl alcohol (90%+ for cleaning)
- Shock pump
Preparation and Work Area Setup
Before starting, ensure your workspace is clean and free of contaminants. Suspension components are sensitive to dirt and grime, which can degrade performance and cause internal wear. Lay out all necessary tools and parts to avoid mid-rebuild delays. It’s also important to note the fork’s travel, damper type (FIT4 or GRIP), and air spring version (FLOAT EVOL).
Disassembly of the Lower Legs
Begin by releasing air pressure from the air spring. Remove the valve cap and depress the Schrader valve until all air is expelled. Next, remove the rebound adjuster knob from the right leg using a 2mm hex wrench. Loosen the foot nuts (bottom bolts) on both legs slightly and gently tap them with a mallet to unseat the internal assemblies. Remove the bolts and carefully slide the lower legs off the uppers. Expect some oil to drain; catch it in a suitable container.
Inspection and Cleaning of Components
With the lower legs removed, inspect the stanchions for scoring or wear. Examine the foam rings and dust wipers. If they appear dirty or worn, replace them. Clean the inside of the lower legs thoroughly using isopropyl alcohol and lint-free cloths. Pay attention to the arch area where contaminants accumulate. Check for internal debris that could compromise performance.
For the upper tubes, wipe down the air spring and damper shafts. If the fork exhibits poor small-bump compliance, consider fully disassembling the air spring for inspection. Clean all contact surfaces and lubricate o-rings with a light coating of suspension grease before reassembly.
Replacing Seals and Foam Rings
Remove the old dust wipers using a seal pick, being careful not to scratch the casting. Soak the new foam rings in suspension oil before installation. Seat them into the lower leg grooves. Use a seal driver or appropriately sized socket to press in the new dust wipers evenly. Ensure they sit flush without deforming the seal lips.
Reassembly and Lubrication
Apply 20wt Gold oil to the foam rings and dust seals. Slide the lower legs back onto the uppers with gentle, even pressure. Do not force them if they resist, as this may indicate misalignment or dry seals. Add the correct volume of bath oil through the open foot bolt holes: typically 10ml per leg unless otherwise specified by Fox’s latest service manual.
Insert the foot bolts and torque to specification: 5.1 Nm for air spring side, 7.3 Nm for damper side. Reinstall the rebound adjuster and verify smooth movement.
Air Spring Charging and Function Check
Inflate the air spring to the desired pressure using a shock pump. Typical ranges are 60–120 psi depending on rider weight and terrain. Cycle the fork to equalize air chambers if using the EVOL system. Check rebound and compression adjusters for consistent clicks and smooth operation. Ensure no oil leaks from seals or foot nuts.
Troubleshooting Common Set-Up Issues
- Loss of Travel: Caused by incorrect air pressure or a stuck negative air chamber. Re-equalize the EVOL system or inspect the air spring assembly.
- Poor Small-Bump Sensitivity: Likely due to dirty or dry foam rings. Ensure proper lubrication and cleanliness.
- Oil Leakage: Usually from incorrectly installed seals or overfilled bath oil. Recheck torque settings and seal integrity.
- Harsh Compression: Can indicate contamination in the damper or excessive oil viscosity. Consider a damper rebuild or using a lower viscosity fluid.
Customization and Performance Optimization
The 32 Performance Elite offers ample customization through volume spacers and damper settings. Use volume spacers to fine-tune ramp-up characteristics. Riders seeking more mid-stroke support may add one or two spacers, while those preferring linear feel can remove them. The FIT4 damper allows for Open, Medium, and Firm settings — fine-tune compression for terrain-specific use.
Use a digital shock pump for precise air pressure settings and re-check sag with a measuring o-ring. A well-optimized fork enhances control, reduces fatigue, and increases rider confidence.
Comparison with Similar Models
The 32 Performance Elite sits just below the Factory Series in Fox’s lineup but retains key features like the FIT4 damper and lightweight chassis. Compared to the Fox 32 Rhythm, it features a more refined damper and lighter materials. Riders upgrading from a Rhythm or older RockShox SID may notice improved tunability and sensitivity. The Factory model adds Kashima coating for reduced friction, but the Performance Elite offers similar internal architecture at a lower cost.
Compatibility with Other Drivetrain Components
While the suspension fork doesn’t directly interface with drivetrain components, clearance and mounting standards do affect compatibility. The 32 Performance Elite typically uses a 44mm offset and Boost 110 spacing. Ensure your front hub matches the fork’s axle standard (15x110mm) and your brake caliper aligns with the post mount (160mm native, adapters available for 180mm or 203mm rotors).
Cable routing should be reviewed if using 1x or 2x drivetrains. Proper alignment prevents cable rub and wear on the fork crown or stanchions.
Conclusion
Rebuilding your Fox 32 Performance Elite fork is a manageable yet precise process that greatly enhances your bike’s performance and durability. Regular service intervals — every 125 hours or yearly — keep the suspension smooth and predictable. Following this detailed rebuild guide ensures every component operates as intended, preserving the fork’s integrity and boosting ride quality.