Rebuilding your Deluxe Coil Ultimate [paid link] rear shock at home is an important skill for any dedicated mountain biker. Performing regular maintenance or a full rebuild ensures that your shock continues to perform optimally, offering superior damping and support during your rides. This step-by-step guide will walk you through the process of rebuilding the RockShox Deluxe Coil Ultimate [paid link], covering tools, disassembly, inspection, reassembly, and troubleshooting.
Tools Required
- Shock Pump
- Seal Driver
- 7mm, 10mm, 14mm Wrenches
- Torque Wrench [paid link]
- Clean Rag
- Plastic or Soft Face Hammer
- Suspension Fluid (appropriate grade for your model)
- Fresh Oil for Damper Assembly
- Sealant Grease
- Needle Nose Pliers
- Snap Ring Pliers
- Flat Head Screwdriver
- Hex Wrenches (Allen Keys [paid link])
- Suspension Oil Drain Pan
- Compression Tool (if applicable)
Disassembling the Deluxe Coil Ultimate
Step 1: Remove the Rear Shock from the Bike
Before starting the rebuild process, ensure your bike is stable and secure. Using a shock pump, deflate the shock to release any air pressure. Use the appropriate wrenches (usually 7mm or 10mm) to remove the shock from the frame. Be cautious when handling the shock, as excessive force could damage its delicate internal components.
Step 2: Remove the Coil Spring
To begin disassembling the shock, you first need to remove the coil spring. Carefully remove the coil lock ring using a 14mm wrench. Once the lock ring is off, slide the coil off the shock body. Be sure to inspect the spring for any damage such as cracks or corrosion during this step. If the coil spring shows signs of wear, consider replacing it before reassembling the shock.
Step 3: Remove the Damper Assembly
Use your hex wrenches to remove the damper assembly from the shock body. Depending on your model, you might need to remove additional retaining rings or screws to fully free the damper. Once removed, check the damper for leaks or worn-out seals. If you notice any issues, these parts should be replaced during the rebuild process.
Step 4: Disassemble the Damper Cartridge
Using the snap ring pliers, carefully remove any snap rings securing the damper cartridge. Proceed to remove the damper from the cartridge body, ensuring not to damage any seals. Use a clean rag to wipe off any excess suspension fluid and inspect the internal parts for wear and tear.
Step 5: Remove the Air Can or Positive Chamber
If your shock model includes a separate air chamber, remove the air can by unscrewing it from the shock body. Carefully inspect the air seals and remove any dirt or debris from the chamber. Make sure to check the air can for any damage or oil leakage that might require a replacement.
Inspecting the Components
Step 1: Inspect the Shock Body and Piston
Once you’ve disassembled the shock, the shock body and piston are the next key components to inspect. Check for any scoring or damage, particularly around areas where seals contact the body. These imperfections could lead to decreased performance or leaks. If the shock body or piston is damaged, replacing them is recommended.
Step 2: Check the Seals
Seals are critical for maintaining the shock’s performance. Carefully examine all the seals for cracks, tears, or excessive wear. The seal head and the damper seals should be replaced during the rebuild to ensure smooth operation and prevent air and fluid leaks. When inspecting the seals, also check for any dirt or grit that might have been introduced over time.
Step 3: Inspect the Oil and Suspension Fluid
Inspect the suspension fluid from the damper and air chamber. If the fluid is discolored, milky, or excessively dirty, it will need to be replaced. The condition of the fluid is a good indicator of whether your shock has been operating under harsh conditions. Clean out any residual fluid from the shock body before refilling with fresh oil.
Reassembling the Deluxe Coil Ultimate
Step 1: Install New Seals
Before reassembly, install new seals where necessary. Start by lubricating each seal with suspension grease or oil before insertion to prevent dry running. Carefully use a seal driver to install the seals into the shock body and damper. Pay close attention to the orientation of each seal to ensure a perfect fit.
Step 2: Rebuild the Damper Cartridge
Fill the damper assembly with fresh suspension oil, ensuring that you use the correct fluid specified for your shock. Reassemble the damper components, making sure all parts are aligned properly. Install the damper back into the shock body, securing it with any retaining rings or screws.
Step 3: Install the Air Can
If your shock features an air can or positive chamber, install it after the damper has been reassembled. Use the appropriate torque setting for the air can and ensure that the air seals are seated properly to avoid leaks.
Step 4: Reinstall the Coil Spring
Once the damper assembly and air can are properly reassembled, slide the coil spring back onto the shock body. Secure the spring with the lock ring, tightening it to the recommended torque specification.
Step 5: Perform Final Assembly
Reinstall the shock into the bike’s rear triangle using the appropriate bolts. Ensure that the mounting hardware is tightened to the correct torque specification. Double-check that all seals and components are correctly positioned, and that there are no gaps or misalignments.
Troubleshooting Common Set-Up Issues
Issue 1: Reduced Suspension Performance
If you notice that your suspension feels too soft or too stiff after the rebuild, it could be due to incorrect oil levels or air pressure. Check the suspension fluid levels and recheck your air pressure settings. Ensure that the correct oil grade is used, and confirm that the spring rate matches your rider weight and riding style.
Issue 2: Leaking Fluid
Leaking fluid is a common issue and often results from worn-out seals or improper assembly. If you observe oil leakage, inspect the seals around the damper and air can. Replace any worn seals, reassemble the shock carefully, and ensure that no parts are over-tightened, which could damage the seals.
Issue 3: No Air Pressure in the Shock
If your shock loses air pressure or doesn’t hold air after the rebuild, the issue could be a failed air seal or a damaged valve. Inspect the air valve and air can seals for wear, and replace them as needed. You should also check the valve core for any damage or contamination.
Customization and Optimization for Better Performance
Adjusting Rebound and Compression
To further optimize your Deluxe Coil Ultimate, you can fine-tune the rebound and compression settings. Adjust the rebound dial to suit your riding preferences—slower rebound is ideal for technical terrain, while faster rebound works better for smooth trails. Similarly, adjust the compression settings to control how the shock reacts to bumps and obstacles.
Choosing the Right Spring
The right coil spring is essential for achieving the best ride quality. Coil springs come in various spring rates, which are directly related to your body weight and riding style. Choose a spring rate that provides the best balance between comfort and control, as a spring that is too soft or too stiff will negatively impact performance.
Compatibility with Other Drivetrain Components
The Deluxe Coil Ultimate rear shock is compatible with a wide variety of frames and drivetrain components, but it’s essential to ensure that it matches the specifications of your bike. Check the manufacturer’s guidelines for the recommended size, stroke length, and eyelet width to ensure compatibility. Additionally, the shock’s damping system should align with the intended suspension design of your bike.