How to Rebuild Your Storia V3 Rear Shock at Home

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The Storia V3 [paid link] rear shock from EXT is an advanced component designed for high-performance mountain biking. Over time, it may need a rebuild to maintain optimal performance, especially after extended use or if you notice signs of decreased damping, increased play, or air pressure loss. Rebuilding this shock at home can be an effective way to save on repair costs while learning more about your bike’s suspension. In this guide, we will take you through the process step by step, covering everything from tools required to troubleshooting common issues, optimizing performance, and ensuring compatibility with other components.

Tools Required

  • 3mm, 5mm, and 6mm Allen wrenches [paid link]
  • Torque wrench [paid link]
  • Suspension fluid
  • Shock oil
  • O-rings and seals kit (specific to Storia V3 [paid link])
  • Grease (preferably for suspension components)
  • Snap-ring pliers
  • Soft jaws clamp or vise
  • Shock pump
  • Clean cloths
  • Rubber gloves
  • Seal driver tool
  • Plastic scraper or pick tool

Preparing for the Rebuild

Before you begin, it’s crucial to prepare a clean, organized workspace. Gather all the necessary tools, and ensure that your bike is stable and supported, so you can easily remove the rear shock. Wear gloves to avoid contaminating the suspension components with oils or dirt from your hands.

Step 1: Removing the Storia V3 Rear Shock

  1. Position your bike securely: Use a work stand or support the bike in a stable position where you can access the rear shock without obstruction.
  2. Remove the rear wheel: This will give you ample space to work on the shock and prevent any damage.
  3. Loosen the shock mount bolts: Using a 5mm or 6mm Allen wrench [paid link], remove the bolts securing the shock to the frame. Keep these bolts and washers in a safe place, as they will be reused.
  4. Remove the shock: Once the bolts are removed, carefully slide the shock out of its mounts.

Step 2: Disassembling the Storia V3 Shock

  1. Position the shock in a vise: Clamp the shock lightly using soft jaws to prevent damage to the shock body. Ensure it is secure but not over-tightened.
  2. Remove the damper cartridge: Use a 3mm Allen wrench [paid link] to unscrew and remove the damper cap. Depending on the model, you may need to use a shock-specific tool to remove the internal damper.
  3. Drain the shock fluid: With the shock body exposed, tilt it to drain out all the used suspension fluid. Keep a clean cloth handy for any excess fluid that may spill.

Step 3: Replacing O-rings, Seals, and Internal Components

  1. Remove the internal seals: Use a plastic scraper or pick tool to remove the old seals carefully. Be cautious not to damage the shock body or the damper components.
  2. Inspect the O-rings and seals: Before replacing the seals, inspect them for wear and tear. If they are cracked, misshapen, or degraded, replace them with new ones from the seal kit specific to the Storia V3 model.
  3. Lubricate the new seals: Before installation, lightly grease the new seals with suspension-specific grease. This will help ensure a smooth operation and prolong the life of the seals.

Step 4: Reassembling the Shock

  1. Install the new seals and O-rings: Using a seal driver tool, install the new seals into the shock body, making sure they fit snugly and evenly.
  2. Fill the shock with fresh suspension fluid: Using a clean funnel, pour the recommended suspension fluid into the shock body. Ensure you fill it to the correct level as specified in the Storia V3 manual. Overfilling or underfilling can lead to poor shock performance.
  3. Reassemble the damper: Insert the damper cartridge back into the shock body and tighten it securely. Be sure to torque the damper cap to the correct specification using a torque wrench [paid link].

Step 5: Reinstalling the Shock on the Bike

  1. Position the shock back into the frame: Place the shock into its original mounting position on the bike frame.
  2. Reinstall the shock bolts: Secure the shock with the mounting bolts you removed earlier. Be sure to torque the bolts to the specified value in the Storia V3 manual.
  3. Check the shock movement: Before fully tightening, check for any binding or unusual resistance. The shock should move smoothly through its travel.

Step 6: Adjusting and Fine-Tuning the Shock

  1. Set the correct air pressure: Use a shock pump to set the recommended air pressure for your weight and riding style. The correct pressure is critical to achieving optimal shock performance.
  2. Adjust rebound and compression: Use the external controls on the shock to set the rebound and compression damping to your desired settings. Start with the factory settings and make adjustments based on your riding conditions.
  3. Test the shock: After reinstalling and adjusting, take the bike for a test ride. Pay close attention to the feel of the suspension, including how it reacts to bumps and how it rebounds.

Troubleshooting Common Set-Up Issues

If your shock isn’t performing as expected after a rebuild, here are a few common issues to troubleshoot:

  1. Excessive sag: If the shock sags too much under your weight, you may need to increase the air pressure.
  2. Lack of rebound: If the shock doesn’t rebound properly after compression, adjust the rebound setting or check if the damper is functioning correctly.
  3. Fluid leakage: If you notice fluid leaking from the shock, this could indicate an improperly installed seal or a damaged O-ring.
  4. Unresponsive damping: If the damping feels too soft or too stiff, check the compression settings and ensure the oil levels are correct.

Customization and Optimization for Better Performance

The Storia V3 shock offers a range of tuning options that allow you to customize the ride to your preferences. Consider these adjustments to enhance performance:

  • Rebound and compression settings: These settings control how the shock reacts after compression and during rebound. A faster rebound is ideal for aggressive riding, while a slower rebound might be better for more technical terrain.
  • Volume reducers: Adding or removing volume reducers inside the shock changes how the shock behaves throughout its stroke. If you want more support at the beginning of the stroke, consider adding volume spacers.
  • Shock pressure: Adjusting air pressure is essential for achieving the right amount of sag and support. Start with the recommended values and fine-tune based on your riding style.

Compatibility with Other Drivetrain Components

When rebuilding your Storia V3 shock, it’s important to ensure compatibility with other components in your drivetrain. This shock is designed for use with modern high-performance bikes and works well with a variety of suspension systems and frame types. However, always double-check the compatibility of the shock with your bike frame, ensuring that the shock’s travel and mount dimensions align with your bike’s suspension design.

Additionally, make sure that your drivetrain components (such as your rear derailleur and cassette) are adjusted properly. A poorly functioning drivetrain can impact the overall ride experience, even if the suspension is tuned correctly.

By following this guide, you can successfully rebuild your Storia V3 rear shock at home, keeping your bike’s suspension in top condition for optimal performance.