Changing the suspension fork oil in your Selva R from Formula is an essential maintenance task to ensure smooth performance, increased longevity, and optimized ride quality. Over time, the fork oil degrades and loses its ability to provide effective damping. Performing a DIY oil change can help maintain the performance of your suspension and save you money on professional services. This guide will walk you through the step-by-step process for changing the oil in your Selva R suspension fork.
Tools Required
- Torque wrench [paid link]
- 5mm and 6mm Allen wrenches [paid link]
- Suspension fluid (Formula recommended oil)
- Clean rags or paper towels
- Plastic or rubber gloves
- Fork seal driver (optional but recommended)
- 20cc syringe
- Magnetic drain plug tool
- Small container or pan for draining old oil
- Oil funnel or pour spout
- Flathead screwdriver
- Soft brush (optional for cleaning)
Preparation
Before beginning the oil change, ensure that you have all the necessary tools and materials. Working in a clean and dry area will prevent any dirt or debris from contaminating the suspension components.
Step 1: Remove the Fork from the Bike
- Lift the bike: Secure the bike in a stand or place it upside down to ensure the fork is easily accessible.
- Loosen the axle: Remove the front wheel from the fork by loosening the axle with an Allen wrench [paid link].
- Disconnect the brake caliper: If your bike has a disc brake, remove the brake caliper from the fork using the appropriate wrench. Make sure the brake hose is securely hung to avoid damage.
- Remove the fork: Loosen the headset components using a 6mm Allen wrench [paid link]. Slide the fork out of the head tube carefully.
Step 2: Clean the Fork and Remove the Top Cap
- Clean the outer surface: Use a clean rag to wipe down the fork’s outer surface, removing any dirt or grease. This will prevent contaminants from entering the fork during the oil change process.
- Remove the top cap: Use the appropriate tool to remove the top cap of the fork. The top cap is typically held in place by a 5mm Allen screw. Once removed, carefully set it aside.
Step 3: Remove the Lower Leg Assembly
- Loosen the lower legs: Use a 5mm Allen wrench to remove the screws that hold the lower legs in place. Some Selva R models may require a specific tool to undo these screws. Once the screws are removed, gently separate the lower legs from the stanchions.
- Drain the old oil: Position the fork over a container to catch the old oil. Allow the oil to drain completely from the fork legs. You may need to gently move the fork up and down to help the oil drain.
Step 4: Remove and Inspect the Fork Seals
- Remove the fork seals: Using a flathead screwdriver or a specialized fork seal driver, carefully pry out the fork seals. Be cautious not to damage the seals or stanchions during removal. Inspect the seals for any wear or damage. If they are worn or damaged, replace them with new ones to prevent oil leakage and ensure proper damping performance.
- Clean the stanchions: Use a soft brush and rag to clean the stanchions and remove any dirt or debris that may have accumulated.
Step 5: Reassemble the Lower Leg and Add New Oil
- Lubricate the fork seals: Before installing the new seals, lubricate them with fresh suspension oil. This will help the seals slide into place more easily and create a proper seal.
- Reinstall the fork seals: Carefully install the new fork seals back into their respective grooves. If you’re reusing the old seals, ensure they are positioned securely.
- Refill with fresh oil: Using the recommended suspension fluid, pour the oil into the lower legs through the fill port. The exact oil volume can vary depending on your specific fork model and the type of riding you do. Formula recommends about 80-120cc of oil per leg for standard riding conditions. Refer to your Selva R owner’s manual for precise measurements.
- Install the magnetic drain plug: If your model uses a magnetic drain plug, be sure to reinstall it after the oil has been poured into the lower legs. The plug helps attract any metal shavings and prolongs the life of your suspension fork.
Step 6: Reassemble the Fork
- Reattach the lower legs: Carefully align the lower legs with the stanchions, making sure the seals fit securely in place. Tighten the screws that hold the lower legs to the stanchions using the torque wrench [paid link], ensuring that they are torqued to the manufacturer’s recommended settings.
- Install the top cap: Place the top cap back on the fork, tightening it securely with the appropriate tool. Use the torque wrench to ensure it is properly tightened.
Step 7: Reinstall the Fork onto the Bike
- Install the fork: Insert the fork back into the head tube of the bike. Tighten the headset components and ensure everything is securely fastened.
- Reconnect the brake caliper: Reattach the brake caliper to the fork, ensuring the brake pads are correctly aligned with the rotor.
- Reinstall the front wheel: Place the front wheel back onto the fork and tighten the axle securely.
Step 8: Test the Suspension and Adjust Damping
- Check for proper function: Cycle through the fork travel by compressing it and releasing it to ensure that the suspension feels smooth and responsive.
- Adjust the damping: If your Selva R has external damping controls, fine-tune the settings to your preference. Start by adjusting the compression and rebound to a neutral setting, then test ride and make further adjustments as necessary.
Troubleshooting Common Set-Up Issues
- Fork not damping properly: If the fork feels too soft or too stiff, check the oil level and ensure the correct type of oil was used. Insufficient oil or improper viscosity can result in poor performance.
- Leaking oil: If you notice oil leakage after performing the oil change, check the fork seals. Worn or improperly installed seals can cause oil to leak from the fork.
- Fork feels sticky or rough: If the fork feels rough when compressing it, there may be dirt or debris stuck in the stanchions. Clean the fork thoroughly, and replace the seals if necessary.
Customization and Optimization for Better Performance
- Adjust oil weight for different conditions: For more aggressive riding or racing, you may want to use a higher viscosity oil for firmer damping. Conversely, a lighter oil can provide a softer feel for smoother, more technical trails.
- Adjust air pressure: Many Selva R models come with an air spring system. Adjusting the air pressure based on rider weight and preferred stiffness can provide better overall performance.
- Upgrade seals for better performance: Consider upgrading to higher-quality fork seals if you do a lot of off-road riding. These will offer better longevity and reduce the likelihood of oil leakage.
Compatibility with Other Drivetrain Components
The Selva R suspension fork is compatible with a variety of drivetrain systems, including both 1x and 2x setups. However, compatibility with other components, such as disc brake rotors and headsets, should be double-checked before installation. Always ensure that the fork is correctly matched with your bike’s headset size and that the brake mounts align with your rotor size.
Conclusion
Performing an oil change on your Formula Selva R suspension fork is an essential task for maintaining optimal performance. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can ensure your fork continues to provide smooth, responsive damping for a better riding experience. Regular maintenance, including oil changes, not only extends the life of your fork but also ensures you get the best performance on every ride.