How to Service Your Storia V3 Trunnion Rear Shock Without a Mechanic

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The Storia V3 Trunnion [paid link] rear shock by EXT is a high-performance suspension component designed for serious riders who demand precision and reliability. Proper maintenance of this rear shock is essential for optimal performance, ensuring that it continues to deliver a smooth and controlled ride. This guide will provide you with step-by-step instructions for servicing your Storia V3 Trunnion [paid link] rear shock without the need for a professional mechanic. From installation and adjustment to troubleshooting and maintenance, you’ll find everything you need to keep your shock in top condition.

Tools Required

Before you begin servicing your Storia V3 [paid link] Trunnion rear shock, gather the following tools:

  • 5mm, 6mm, and 8mm Allen wrenches [paid link]
  • Torque wrench [paid link]
  • Shock pump
  • Cleaning supplies (e.g., degreaser, brushes, rags)
  • Suspension oil (as specified by EXT)
  • Latex gloves (optional for cleanliness)
  • Trunnion mount removal tool
  • Threadlocker (blue Loctite)
  • Safety goggles

Installation of the Storia V3 Trunnion Rear Shock

1. Removing the Old Rear Shock

To begin, you must safely remove the old rear shock if you are replacing an existing one:

  • Use the appropriate Allen wrenches [paid link] to remove the bolts securing the shock to the frame.
  • Carefully slide the shock out of its mounting position, ensuring that no damage occurs to the frame or shock during removal.

2. Installing the New Storia V3 Trunnion Rear Shock

  • Insert the Storia V3 [paid link] Trunnion rear shock into its mounting position on the frame. Ensure the shock is oriented correctly with the trunnion mount aligned with the frame’s pivot points.
  • Tighten the mounting bolts to the manufacturer’s recommended torque specification. It is important not to overtighten, as this could cause damage to the shock or frame.
  • Use a torque wrench [paid link] to ensure the bolts are tightened evenly and to the specified torque (typically around 8–10 Nm). Always apply threadlocker to the bolts to prevent them from loosening over time.

3. Check the Mounting

Once the shock is installed, check that the shock moves smoothly within the frame and that there are no issues with misalignment. Ensure that there is no unwanted play in the shock, as this could affect the performance and stability of your suspension.

Adjusting the Storia V3 Trunnion Rear Shock

The Storia V3 Trunnion shock features several adjustable settings to help you fine-tune the ride characteristics. These adjustments allow you to optimize the shock for different terrains and riding styles.

1. Rebound Adjustment

Rebound refers to how quickly the shock returns to its original position after compressing. Too fast, and the shock will feel bouncy; too slow, and it will feel sluggish.

  • Locate the rebound adjuster on the shock body (usually at the bottom of the shock).
  • Turn the adjuster clockwise to slow down the rebound and counterclockwise to speed it up.
  • Start with a middle setting and make small adjustments during test rides to find the optimal rebound speed for your riding style.

2. Compression Adjustment

Compression affects how the shock behaves when it is compressed by the rider’s weight or impacts with obstacles. This can be adjusted for both low-speed and high-speed compression.

  • Use the compression dial to adjust low-speed compression for smooth terrain riding or technical descents.
  • High-speed compression can be adjusted for rougher terrain or bigger hits to prevent bottoming out.
  • Adjust these settings to match the conditions you plan to ride in. Testing in the field will help you fine-tune the shock’s behavior for optimal performance.

3. Air Pressure

The Storia V3 Trunnion rear shock uses air pressure to adjust the spring rate. Setting the correct air pressure is crucial for achieving the right amount of sag and overall suspension performance.

  • Use a shock pump to add or remove air to achieve the recommended air pressure based on your rider weight. The suggested pressure can typically be found in the shock’s manual.
  • Ensure that the shock pump is securely attached to the valve before adjusting. Adding too much pressure can make the shock too firm, while too little pressure can cause the shock to bottom out on larger impacts.

Routine Maintenance of the Storia V3 Trunnion Rear Shock

To keep your Storia V3 Trunnion rear shock in top working order, regular maintenance is key. Cleaning, oil changes, and seals replacement are essential tasks to keep the shock functioning optimally.

1. Cleaning the Shock

After every ride, it’s a good practice to clean the shock. This prevents dirt and debris from damaging the shock’s internals or compromising its performance.

  • Use a brush and degreaser to clean the shock body, especially around the seals.
  • Wipe the shock down with a clean rag and ensure that there is no dirt or grime buildup on the shock’s moving parts.

2. Lubricating the Shock

Apply a light coat of suspension oil to the shock’s shaft and any exposed moving parts to keep them well-lubricated. This helps prevent wear and tear over time.

  • Only use the recommended suspension oils as specified by EXT to avoid damaging the shock.
  • Make sure to remove any excess oil after lubrication to prevent it from attracting dirt.

3. Replacing Seals

The seals on your Storia V3 Trunnion shock play a critical role in keeping contaminants out and maintaining the correct pressure. Over time, seals can wear out or become damaged, affecting the shock’s performance.

  • Inspect the seals regularly for signs of damage or wear. If you notice any issues, it’s time to replace them.
  • Replacing seals involves disassembling the shock, so it’s important to follow the manufacturer’s instructions and use the correct tools.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Even with proper maintenance, you may encounter some issues with your Storia V3 Trunnion rear shock. Here are some common problems and solutions:

1. Shock Bottoming Out

If your shock bottoms out frequently, this indicates that it is too soft for your riding style or conditions.

  • Increase the air pressure to stiffen the shock and prevent bottoming out.
  • You may also need to adjust the compression settings for high-speed hits to prevent excessive compression under load.

2. No Rebound Damping

If you notice that the shock rebounds too quickly or too slowly, the rebound damper might be malfunctioning.

  • Check the rebound adjuster for proper function. If the adjuster is not responding or feels stuck, the damper may need servicing.
  • If adjustments don’t resolve the issue, the damper may need to be rebuilt or replaced by a professional.

3. Excessive Noise

Unusual noises, such as squeaks or knocks, can indicate that the shock requires attention.

  • Clean and lubricate the shock to remove any debris or grime that could be causing friction.
  • If the noise persists, check the mounting bolts and bushings for signs of wear or damage.

Customization and Optimization

To get the most out of your Storia V3 Trunnion rear shock, consider customizing it to your riding style. Fine-tuning the adjustments for different conditions can significantly enhance your experience.

1. Adjusting for Terrain

For smoother trails, you may prefer a softer shock setting with more rebound damping. For rougher, rockier terrain, increase the compression and adjust the air pressure to ensure the shock can handle larger impacts without bottoming out.

2. Rider Weight and Preference

The air pressure and compression settings should be adjusted based on your body weight and preferred ride feel. Heavier riders may need to run higher air pressures and stiffer compression settings to maintain stability.

Comparison with Similar Models

The Storia V3 Trunnion rear shock offers an advanced level of tuning and performance compared to similar models from other brands. When comparing it to other high-end shocks, the Storia V3 stands out for its ability to offer precise adjustment across both compression and rebound, making it an excellent choice for riders seeking customization.

Unlike simpler shocks with fewer adjustment options, the Storia V3 allows you to fine-tune the shock for a wide range of riding conditions, offering greater versatility.

Compatibility with Other Drivetrain Components

The Storia V3 Trunnion rear shock is compatible with a wide range of mountain bike frames, especially those with trunnion mounts. However, it’s important to check the specifications of your bike frame to ensure compatibility. The shock’s performance can be influenced by the type of frame and other drivetrain components it is paired with, so ensure the shock’s geometry works well with your setup.