The RockShox Deluxe Select+ rear shock is a high-performance suspension component designed for smooth, controlled rides on a variety of terrains. To ensure optimal performance and longevity of your shock, regular maintenance is crucial. One key aspect of maintaining your Deluxe Select+ rear shock is changing the oil. Over time, shock oil can degrade or become contaminated, leading to reduced performance. This guide will walk you through the necessary steps to perform a rear shock oil change for the RockShox Deluxe Select+.

Tools Required

• 8mm hex wrench
• 2.5mm hex wrench
• T25 Torx wrench [paid link]
• Torque wrench [paid link] (with a range suitable for bike components)
• 10mm open-end wrench
• RockShox suspension fluid (5wt or the recommended fluid for your shock model)
• Oil drain pan or container
• Clean rags or paper towels
• Shock pump
• Needle-nose pliers
• Rubber gloves (optional, for clean handling)

Preparing for the Oil Change

Before beginning the oil change, it is important to remove the rear shock from the bike to ensure a clean and efficient process. Follow these steps to properly prepare:

1. Remove the Rear Shock: Use an 8mm hex wrench to remove the mounting bolts at both ends of the shock. Carefully lift the shock from the frame, ensuring not to damage the suspension linkage or any other components.
2. Secure the Shock: Place the shock in a stable work area, such as a workbench or a clean surface, to avoid dirt and debris getting into the shock during maintenance.

Disassembling the Shock

Once the shock is removed and securely positioned, it’s time to disassemble it to access the oil chamber. Follow these steps for a thorough disassembly:

1. Remove the Air Canister: Use a 2.5mm hex wrench to remove the air canister screws on the Deluxe Select+ shock. These screws are typically located on the non-drive side of the shock. Make sure to keep track of the screws as you will need them later to reassemble the shock.
2. Pry Off the Air Canister: Once the screws are removed, carefully pull the air canister away from the shock body. There may be some resistance, but do not force it. If it’s stuck, gently tap it with a soft mallet to loosen it.
3. Drain the Oil: Position the shock over a drain pan or container to catch the old oil. Remove the damper shaft nut using a T25 Torx wrench [paid link] to release the oil from the shock. Allow the shock to fully drain for several minutes to ensure no oil remains inside the shock body.

Cleaning and Inspection

Once the oil is drained, it’s important to thoroughly clean and inspect the shock components to ensure proper function:

1. Clean the Shock Components: Use a clean rag or paper towels to wipe down all parts of the shock, including the air canister, damper shaft, and shock body. Ensure that all dirt, debris, and old oil are removed from the surfaces.
2. Inspect the Shock: Check for any visible damage, such as scratches, dents, or signs of wear on the shock body, air canister, or damper shaft. If any components show signs of damage, they may need to be replaced before proceeding.
3. Examine the Seals: Inspect the seals in the air canister and shock body for any signs of wear or damage. Worn seals can cause air or oil leakage, leading to poor shock performance. If seals are damaged, replace them before continuing with the oil change.

Adding New Oil

Now that the shock is clean and inspected, it’s time to add fresh oil to the shock. This step is crucial for maintaining smooth performance and providing adequate lubrication for the internal components:

1. Prepare the Oil: Use the recommended RockShox suspension fluid (5wt or other suitable oils depending on your shock model). Measure out the required amount of oil based on the specifications provided in your shock’s manual or the manufacturer’s guidelines.
2. Lubricate the Damper Shaft: Using a clean cloth, lightly lubricate the damper shaft with a small amount of suspension fluid to help with reassembly and prevent friction.
3. Fill the Shock Body: Pour the measured oil into the shock body. Be sure to add the correct amount of oil as specified by RockShox. Overfilling or underfilling the shock may negatively affect performance.

Reassembling the Shock

With the new oil added, it’s time to reassemble the shock. Carefully follow the reassembly steps to ensure the shock is put back together correctly:

1. Attach the Air Canister: Place the air canister back onto the shock body, ensuring it aligns properly with the shock body. Press the air canister firmly into place, making sure that the seals are intact and not damaged.
2. Secure the Air Canister: Use the 2.5mm hex wrench to reinstall the screws that hold the air canister in place. Tighten them according to the recommended torque values to prevent leakage or movement.
3. Install the Damper Shaft Nut: Use a T25 Torx wrench to reinstall the damper shaft nut. Tighten the nut securely to ensure the shock is sealed correctly and no oil can leak out.
4. Check for Proper Functioning: Before mounting the shock back onto your bike, gently compress the shock and check for smooth operation. The shock should compress and rebound without hesitation or unusual resistance.

Reinstalling the Shock

Once the shock is reassembled and functioning correctly, it’s time to reinstall it on your bike:

1. Mount the Shock: Position the shock back into the frame, aligning the mounting holes on both ends of the shock with the frame mounts.
2. Tighten the Mounting Bolts: Use an 8mm hex wrench to tighten the mounting bolts. Ensure that they are torqued to the manufacturer’s recommended values to avoid any shifting during riding.
3. Inflate the Shock: Use a shock pump to inflate the shock to the desired pressure, as indicated in your shock’s specifications or your personal setup preferences. The shock should be pumped to the recommended air pressure for your weight and riding style.

Testing the Shock

After the oil change and reinstallation, it’s crucial to test the shock for proper operation:

1. Test Ride: Take your bike for a short ride on a flat, controlled surface. Pay attention to any unusual sounds, such as air leaks or excessive rebound.
2. Adjust Rebound and Compression: Once you are comfortable that the shock is functioning properly, adjust the rebound and compression settings to your desired preferences for optimal performance.
3. Check for Leaks: After your test ride, inspect the shock for any signs of leaking oil or air. If you notice any leakage, check the seals and the tightness of the mounting bolts.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If the shock isn’t performing as expected after the oil change, you may encounter one of the following issues:

• Shock not compressing smoothly: This may indicate an air leak, insufficient oil, or an issue with the seals. Check for proper oil levels and inspect the seals for wear.
• Excessive rebound or no rebound: If the rebound is too fast or too slow, adjust the rebound damping screw. If there is no rebound, you may need to disassemble the shock again to check the internal components.
• Air leakage: Air leaks can often be traced to damaged seals or improperly tightened bolts. Recheck the air canister and damper shaft nut for tightness.

By following these steps carefully, you can perform a successful oil change on your RockShox Deluxe Select+ rear shock. Regular oil changes will help maintain the shock’s performance and extend its lifespan, ensuring a smooth and controlled ride on all your cycling adventures.