DIY Suspension Fork Oil Change for Helm MKII Air

Posted on
in Uncategorized

Performing an oil change on your Helm MKII Air [paid link] suspension fork is an essential part of maintaining the fork’s performance, ensuring smooth travel, and prolonging its lifespan. Regular oil changes help to maintain the fork’s damping performance, minimize wear, and keep the seals in good condition. This step-by-step guide will walk you through the process of changing the oil in the Helm MKII Air [paid link], including essential tips for installation, adjustment, and maintenance.

Tools Required

  • 5mm Allen wrench [paid link]
  • 8mm Allen wrench [paid link]
  • 10mm Allen wrench
  • T25 Torx wrench [paid link]
  • Suspension oil (Cane Creek recommends 15wt or 10wt for the Helm MKII Air)
  • Fork oil syringe
  • Clean rags or towels
  • Small container for draining old oil
  • 5mm socket wrench (optional)
  • A torque wrench [paid link] (optional)
  • Oil pan (for draining)
  • Fork seal grease

Preparation for the Oil Change

Before starting the oil change, ensure that the bike is properly secured, preferably on a bike stand [paid link]. It is essential to work in a clean environment to avoid contaminating the fork’s internals. Having all your tools within easy reach will also make the process smoother and more efficient.

Step 1: Remove the Fork from the Bike

  • Detach the front wheel by loosening the quick release or thru-axle.
  • Remove the fork by detaching it from the head tube. Loosen the stem bolts (usually two bolts) and slide the fork out of the headset. Place the fork on a clean surface, ready for disassembly.

Step 2: Set Up for Fork Oil Removal

  • Loosen the air valve on the fork’s top cap to release any air pressure before starting the oil change. This is crucial to prevent any pressurized oil or air from causing accidents during the disassembly.
  • Remove the air spring assembly by using a 5mm Allen wrench on the top cap. Ensure that you capture any air pressure that may escape [paid link] in a controlled manner.

Disassembling the Fork

Step 3: Remove the Damper Assembly

  • Remove the damper assembly by unscrewing the top cap from the fork using a 10mm Allen wrench.
  • With the top cap removed, you should be able to gently pull out the damper. Depending on the setup, it may be necessary to remove the rebound and compression adjusters first.
  • Place the damper assembly in a clean container to avoid dirt contamination.

Step 4: Drain the Old Oil

  • Drain the old oil from the fork’s lower leg by removing the bolts that secure the lowers to the stanchions. Use the T25 Torx wrench [paid link] to undo these bolts.
  • Once removed, carefully separate the lowers from the upper tubes. This will allow the old fork oil to drain out. Hold the fork vertically in the oil pan and let it drain completely.

Step 5: Clean and Inspect

  • With the lowers removed, clean the stanchions thoroughly with a clean rag or towel. This is crucial to prevent dirt and contaminants from entering the fork during reassembly.
  • Inspect the seals for any signs of wear or damage. If they are worn, now is the time to replace them to ensure proper fork performance.

Changing the Fork Oil

Step 6: Fill with Fresh Fork Oil

  • Prepare the new oil by using the recommended suspension fluid (15wt or 10wt) from Cane Creek. Make sure the oil is designed for suspension forks, as it has the correct viscosity to ensure smooth damping.
  • Use a fork oil syringe to fill the lowers and damper assembly. Be sure to add the correct amount of oil, typically 15-20ml for each leg, depending on the model and your riding preferences. Always refer to the manual for the specific quantity and oil type.

Step 7: Reassemble the Fork

  • Reinstall the damper assembly into the upper tubes. Make sure it’s aligned correctly and reattach the top cap to secure it.
  • Once the damper is back in place, ensure that the air spring is properly seated and reattach it to the top of the fork using the 5mm Allen wrench.
  • Reattach the lowers to the upper tubes and tighten the T25 bolts evenly. Use a torque wrench [paid link] if you have one, ensuring that the bolts are torqued to the correct specification.

Step 8: Check and Adjust the Air Pressure

  • Check the air spring pressure by using a shock pump. The Helm MKII Air typically requires a specific PSI range depending on rider weight. Be sure to adjust the air pressure to suit your riding style and weight.

Final Adjustments

Step 9: Test the Damping

  • Before reinstalling the fork on the bike, test the damping to ensure it is operating smoothly. Compress and extend the fork to check for any abnormal behavior, like excessive stiction or inconsistent rebound.
  • If the damping feels too soft or too firm, make adjustments to the compression and rebound settings. The Helm MKII Air features both low and high-speed compression adjustments, allowing for more refined tuning based on riding conditions.

Step 10: Install the Fork Back on the Bike

  • Reinstall the fork onto the bike by sliding it back into the headset.
  • Tighten the stem bolts and ensure that the fork is aligned properly.
  • Reinstall the front wheel and ensure that everything is properly secured.

Troubleshooting Common Set-Up Issues

  1. Fork feels too stiff or too soft: This could indicate that the oil level is either too high or too low. Check the oil levels and ensure the correct oil type and quantity are used.
  2. Damping feels inconsistent: If the fork feels like it’s not damping properly, it might be due to air pressure being too high or low, or the oil may be old and degraded. Check the air pressure and consider changing the oil again.
  3. Noise during compression: This might be due to air trapped in the fork. Bleed the air by adjusting the air spring pressure several times to ensure any air pockets are released.
  4. Fork seals leaking oil: Overfilled oil or damaged seals can lead to leaks. Inspect the seals and replace them if necessary.

Customization and Optimization for Better Performance

The Helm MKII Air fork offers several customization options to optimize performance based on your riding style:

  • Air pressure tuning: Adjusting the air pressure in the air spring will allow you to fine-tune the fork’s feel. Lighter air pressure will provide more plushness, while higher air pressure will give a firmer feel.
  • Compression and rebound adjustments: Fine-tune the low and high-speed compression settings to match the terrain you’re riding on. For technical descents, you may want more low-speed compression to prevent the fork from diving, while a more open setting could be beneficial for smoother trails.
  • Lube and oil selection: Cane Creek offers a range of oils designed for different conditions. Use a lighter oil for smoother trails, and a heavier oil for more aggressive riding or rough terrain.

Comparison with Similar Models

While the Helm MKII Air is a standout in its category, it’s worth considering other models like the Fox 36 or RockShox Pike. The Helm MKII Air offers superior customization options, particularly in damping and air spring tuning, making it ideal for riders who value a highly adjustable ride. However, the Fox 36 might offer a more familiar feel for riders who are already accustomed to the Fox system, and the RockShox Pike provides excellent performance with a lower cost. When choosing a fork, consider your riding style, terrain, and the level of customization you desire.

Understanding Compatibility with Other Drivetrain Components

The Helm MKII Air fork is compatible with a wide range of bikes, but compatibility with other drivetrain components, such as the front derailleur and brake setup, should be checked before installation. The fork’s 15mm or 20mm thru-axle setup works with most modern hubs, but always verify axle size and brake mounting standards. For optimal performance, ensure that your headset and steerer tube match the Helm MKII Air’s specifications, as this will affect the fork’s installation and overall handling.