Rebuilding your Fox Float DPS Performance Elite [paid link] rear shock at home can help you restore its optimal performance and extend its lifespan. This guide provides detailed instructions on how to properly disassemble, clean, reassemble, and fine-tune your shock for a smooth ride. With the right tools and techniques, you can maintain your shock’s responsiveness and keep your bike performing at its best.
Tools Required
- Fox Float DPS Performance Elite [paid link] rebuild kit
- Shock pump
- 3mm, 5mm, and 8mm hex wrenches
- Torque wrench [paid link]
- Soft cloth or towel
- Isopropyl alcohol
- Rubber gloves
- Small, clean containers for parts organization
- O-ring grease (Fox-specific)
- Shock oil (Fox-approved)
- Small brush (for cleaning)
- Replacement seals (if necessary)
Preparing for the Rebuild
Before you begin the rebuild, it’s essential to ensure you have a clean, organized workspace. This will help you manage small parts and prevent them from getting lost. Make sure your bike is stable, preferably in a repair stand, so you can easily remove the rear shock.
- Remove the Rear Shock: Use a 5mm hex wrench to remove the bolts securing the shock to the frame. Keep the bolts and washers in a safe place for reassembly.
- Clean the Shock: Wipe the exterior of the shock with a soft cloth to remove dirt and debris. Use isopropyl alcohol for any tough residue, but avoid getting any cleaning solution on the shock’s internals.
- Inspect the Shock: Check for any visible damage such as dents, cracks, or worn seals. If you notice anything out of the ordinary, consider seeking professional service.
Disassembling the Float DPS Performance Elite Rear Shock
Once you’ve removed the shock from the bike, follow these steps to disassemble it properly.
- Remove the Air Sleeve: Using an 8mm hex wrench, unscrew the air sleeve from the shock body. Carefully slide the sleeve off, exposing the shock’s internals.
- Drain the Air: Release the air from the shock using a shock pump. Press the valve to ensure all the air is expelled.
- Extract the Damper Cartridge: The damper cartridge controls the shock’s rebound and compression damping. Using a 3mm hex wrench, remove the damper from the shock body. Pay attention to how the components are assembled to ensure proper reassembly.
- Remove the Piston and Seals: Gently remove the piston, and inspect the seals for wear or damage. If the seals appear damaged or worn out, it’s essential to replace them with fresh ones from the rebuild kit.
Cleaning and Replacing Parts
After disassembling the shock, it’s time to clean the components and replace any worn parts.
- Clean the Internals: Use a small brush to clean the shock body, piston, and damper. Avoid using harsh chemicals, as these can damage the shock. Use only isopropyl alcohol to clean and degrease the parts.
- Inspect and Replace Seals: Check all the seals for any wear or damage. If necessary, replace them using the seals provided in the Fox Float DPS Performance [paid link] Elite rebuild kit. Lubricate the new seals with a small amount of Fox-approved O-ring grease to ensure smooth movement.
- Check the Damper Cartridge: Inspect the damper cartridge for any dirt, oil, or residue buildup. If the cartridge appears damaged, you may need to replace it. Clean it thoroughly with isopropyl alcohol before reassembling.
Reassembling the Float DPS Performance Elite Rear Shock
Once the parts are cleaned and inspected, reassemble the shock following these steps.
- Insert the Damper Cartridge: Place the damper cartridge back into the shock body. Tighten it with a 3mm hex wrench to the manufacturer’s recommended torque.
- Install the Piston: Carefully place the piston back into the shock body, ensuring it’s seated correctly. You may need to gently compress the shock to align the parts. Lubricate the piston with shock oil for smoother operation.
- Reassemble the Air Sleeve: Carefully slide the air sleeve back onto the shock body. Use an 8mm hex wrench to screw it back in place. Make sure it’s tightly secured but avoid over-tightening, as this can damage the threads.
- Replace the Air Valve: If necessary, replace the air valve with a new one from the rebuild kit. Tighten it using a torque wrench [paid link] to the specified torque settings.
Reinstalling the Rear Shock on Your Bike
With the shock fully reassembled, it’s time to reinstall it on your bike.
- Attach the Shock to the Frame: Use a 5mm hex wrench to reattach the shock to the frame, ensuring the shock mounts are aligned properly. Tighten the bolts to the recommended torque setting.
- Check for Proper Travel: After installation, check that the shock moves freely and doesn’t feel stiff or sticky. If there is any resistance, disassemble the shock again to ensure all components are correctly installed.
- Reinflate the Shock: Use a shock pump to reinflate the shock to the correct air pressure, based on your rider weight and intended riding style. Be sure to check the air pressure periodically during your rides.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Even after a successful rebuild, certain issues may arise. Here are some common problems and how to troubleshoot them:
- Air Leaks: If you notice air leaking from the shock, double-check the air valve for tightness and inspect the seals. Ensure that the air sleeve is properly installed.
- Shock Not Rebounding Properly: If the shock isn’t rebounding correctly, it could be due to a problem with the damper cartridge. Check for any dirt or oil buildup and ensure the cartridge is correctly installed.
- Excessive Stiffness: If the shock feels too stiff, ensure that the air pressure is set correctly. Also, check for any resistance in the shock’s movement during the reassembly phase.
- Unusual Noises: If you hear squeaking or rattling noises during your ride, this may indicate a loose bolt or a damaged seal. Inspect all bolts and seals to ensure everything is tight and intact.
Customization and Optimization
To get the best performance from your Fox Float DPS Performance [paid link] Elite rear shock, consider these customization options:
- Adjusting Air Pressure: Fine-tuning the air pressure can drastically affect your ride quality. Adjust the air pressure based on your weight, riding style, and terrain preferences.
- Compression and Rebound Settings: Experiment with the compression and rebound settings on the damper. For a smoother ride on rough trails, you may want to soften the compression. On smoother trails, increasing the rebound can provide better control.
- Changing the Shock Oil: Over time, shock oil can degrade and lose its performance. Replacing it with fresh Fox-approved oil during the rebuild can improve damping performance and overall shock responsiveness.
Compatibility with Other Drivetrain Components
The Fox Float DPS Performance Elite rear shock is designed to work with a variety of mountain bikes, but it’s important to ensure compatibility with your bike’s other components.
- Shock Mounting System: Ensure that the mounting system on your bike frame matches the size and configuration of the Fox Float DPS rear shock. The shock is available in multiple eyelet sizes and mounting standards.
- Suspension Travel: Ensure that the shock’s travel matches your bike’s geometry. For bikes with longer or shorter suspension setups, a different shock may be required.
- Drivetrain Compatibility: While the rear shock primarily affects suspension, it can still impact how the rest of the drivetrain performs, especially on full-suspension bikes. Make sure that the shock is not limiting chainstay movement or causing clearance issues.
Conclusion
Rebuilding your Fox Float DPS Performance Elite rear shock at home is a manageable task that can save you time and money. By following these steps, you can restore your shock’s performance and enjoy a smoother, more responsive ride. Whether you’re replacing worn seals, cleaning the damper, or making adjustments for optimal performance, maintaining your shock is essential for getting the most out of your bike. With proper care, your Fox Float DPS rear shock will continue to deliver top-tier performance for years to come.