The Öhlins TTX1Air rear shock is a high-performance component designed for maximum efficiency and durability. Over time, even the most reliable shocks can experience wear and require maintenance. Rebuilding your TTX1Air at home can save you time and money while ensuring your bike performs at its best. This guide provides detailed, step-by-step instructions for disassembling, cleaning, rebuilding, and reassembling your TTX1Air rear shock.

Tools Required

• Shock pump
• 8mm Allen wrench [paid link]
• 10mm socket wrench
• TTX1Air rebuild kit (seals, oil, etc.)
• Torque wrench [paid link]
• Soft cloths or rags
• Clean container for draining fluids
• Grease
• Silicone spray
• O-ring pick or seal removal tool

Disassembling the TTX1Air Rear Shock

Before you begin the rebuild process, ensure your bike is properly secured in a work stand. A clean, well-lit workspace will help avoid damage to any components and ensure the job is done efficiently.

1. Remove the shock from the bike: Start by detaching the rear shock from the frame. Use the 8mm Allen wrench [paid link] to unscrew the mounting bolts. Take care to support the shock as you remove it to prevent any damage to the shock body or your frame.
2. Deflate the air chamber: Using the shock pump, release all air pressure from the air chamber. Make sure to slowly release the air to avoid any sudden movements that could damage the shock.
3. Remove the air valve cap: Use the 10mm socket wrench to remove the air valve cap. This will allow you to access the internals of the shock.
4. Drain the shock oil: Place the shock in a clean container and carefully drain the oil from the shock body. Keep in mind that the oil used in the TTX1Air rear shock is specific to the brand and model, so ensure you have the correct type for the rebuild.

Cleaning the Shock

Once the shock is disassembled, it’s time to clean all the parts thoroughly to remove any dirt, grime, and old oil that may have built up.

1. Clean the shock body: Use a soft cloth or rag to wipe down the shock body, removing any dirt or residue. For hard-to-reach areas, a toothbrush or a small brush can help dislodge debris.
2. Clean the air chamber: Use a rag to wipe down the air chamber thoroughly, ensuring there is no dirt or oil residue. Be cautious not to scratch the interior surface of the air chamber.
3. Inspect the damper and piston: Check the damper for any visible signs of wear or damage, such as scoring or scratches. Clean the piston with a clean cloth. If you notice any issues, consider replacing the piston or damping unit.
4. Check the seals: The seals are critical in maintaining the shock’s performance. Inspect the seals carefully for any signs of cracking or wear. If necessary, remove the old seals using an O-ring pick or seal removal tool.

Rebuilding the TTX1Air Rear Shock

With all parts cleaned and inspected, you can begin the rebuild process. Be sure to follow the instructions in the rebuild kit and replace any worn components, such as seals or bushings.

1. Install new seals: Begin by installing new seals on the damper shaft and air chamber. Make sure the seals are correctly oriented and fully seated in their grooves.
2. Lubricate the seals: Before reassembling, apply a small amount of grease to the seals to ensure smooth operation and to prevent future wear. Be sure to use a grease compatible with the shock’s materials.
3. Reinstall the damper and piston: Carefully insert the damper and piston assembly back into the shock body. Be gentle to avoid damaging any components during reinstallation.
4. Refill the shock with oil: Using the recommended oil, refill the shock. Follow the manufacturer’s specifications for the amount of oil to use. Ensure the oil is fresh and clean to avoid contaminating the shock’s internals.
5. Reassemble the shock body: Once the shock is refilled with oil, carefully reassemble the shock body. Tighten all bolts according to the manufacturer’s torque specifications using a torque wrench [paid link] to ensure they are securely fastened.
6. Install the air valve cap: Reattach the air valve cap to the shock body using the 10mm socket wrench. Ensure that the cap is properly seated to prevent air leakage.

Reinstalling the Shock

After rebuilding the shock, the final step is to reinstall it back on your bike.

1. Attach the shock to the frame: Place the shock back into its mounting position on the frame and secure it using the mounting bolts. Tighten the bolts using an 8mm Allen wrench, making sure not to overtighten.
2. Reinflate the shock: Using the shock pump, gradually inflate the air chamber to the recommended pressure. Check for any air leaks, especially around the air valve cap and seals.
3. Adjust settings: Once the shock is reinstalled and inflated, you can adjust the rebound and compression settings to your desired preferences. Always refer to the Öhlins manual for specific settings that suit your riding style and weight.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Even with proper maintenance, you may encounter some issues with your TTX1Air rear shock. Below are some common problems and their solutions:

• Air leakage: If you notice a drop in air pressure over time, it could be due to worn-out seals or a loose air valve cap. Check the seals and replace them if necessary. Ensure the air valve cap is properly tightened.
• Unresponsive damping: If the shock feels sluggish or unresponsive, it could be due to old oil or a malfunctioning damper. Rebuild the shock and replace the oil and seals as needed.
• Squeaking or noise: Noises during compression or rebound might indicate friction in the shock. Ensure all moving parts are properly lubricated and that no debris has entered the shock body.

Customization and Optimization for Better Performance

Customizing your TTX1Air rear shock for optimal performance involves adjusting air pressure, damping settings, and even spring rates to suit your riding style and terrain. Here are a few tips for improving your shock’s performance:

• Adjust air pressure: Experiment with different air pressures to find the ideal setting for your weight and riding style. Lower pressures provide more plushness, while higher pressures offer firmer support.
• Tune the damping: The rebound and compression settings can be fine-tuned based on the type of terrain you ride. For example, on rough trails, you may want more compression damping to reduce the impact of bumps, while a faster rebound setting might be preferred for smoother rides.
• Regular maintenance: Regularly check your shock’s air pressure and damping settings. Over time, adjustments may be necessary as the shock wears in or as conditions change.

Compatibility with Other Drivetrain Components

The Öhlins TTX1Air rear shock is designed to work seamlessly with a variety of drivetrain components. However, it is essential to ensure compatibility with other parts of your bike for the best performance. For instance, pairing your rear shock with a compatible front fork and suspension setup can help maintain balanced performance.

Ensure that your bike frame has the correct shock mount dimensions and that the shock is compatible with your bike’s overall suspension design. Consult the Öhlins specifications for the correct size, stroke length, and travel range for optimal compatibility.

Conclusion

Rebuilding your Öhlins TTX1Air rear shock at home is a rewarding process that can keep your bike performing at its best. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can ensure your shock remains in top condition, offering smooth and responsive performance for all types of riding. Regular maintenance and troubleshooting common issues can help prolong the life of your rear shock and ensure you get the most out of every ride.