Performing regular oil changes on your Magura TS8 R 150 Suspension Fork is essential for maintaining its performance, responsiveness, and longevity. Over time, fork oil can become contaminated or break down, leading to a decrease in damping efficiency and overall comfort. By changing the fork oil yourself, you can ensure that your fork continues to absorb shocks effectively, improving your ride quality and preventing long-term damage. In this guide, we will walk you through the step-by-step process of changing the oil on your TS8 R 150 suspension fork.

Tools Required

• Shock pump
• Allen wrenches [paid link] (various sizes)
• Torque wrench [paid link]
• Suspension fork oil (manufacturer recommended)
• Oil drain pan
• Suspension grease
• Clean rags
• Small brush (for cleaning)
• Fork seal grease
• Seal driver (for replacing seals, if necessary)
• Bushing tool (optional)

Step 1: Prepare the Fork for Service

Before performing the oil change, it’s important to remove the fork from the bike and ensure you have a clean, well-lit workspace.

Remove the Fork from the Bike

1. Remove the front wheel: Start by removing the front wheel using your quick-release or thru-axle tool.
2. Disconnect the brake system: If your fork is connected to hydraulic or mechanical brakes, disconnect them carefully before removing the fork.
3. Loosen the headset: Use a suitable tool to loosen the headset and remove the fork from the frame.
4. Place the fork on a clean surface: Ensure your workspace is free from dirt or debris that could enter the fork during servicing.

Step 2: Disassemble the Fork

To access the internal components for the oil change, you’ll need to carefully disassemble the fork.

Remove the Lower Legs

1. Locate the bolts: Use an Allen wrench [paid link] to remove the bolts securing the lower legs to the stanchions.
2. Separate the lower legs: Once the bolts are removed, gently slide the lower legs off the stanchions. Be sure to do this slowly to avoid damaging the internal components.
3. Drain the oil: Hold the fork over an oil drain pan and allow the oil to fully drain out. This may take several minutes to ensure all the old oil is removed.

Clean Internal Components

While the fork is draining, take the opportunity to clean the internal components.

1. Wipe down the internals: Use a clean rag to wipe down the internal components, including the damper and air spring. Make sure no dirt or debris is left inside the fork.
2. Check for wear: Inspect the damper and air spring for any signs of wear or damage. If you notice any issues, you may need to replace the affected parts.

Step 3: Replace the Oil

Once the fork has fully drained, it’s time to replace the old oil with fresh suspension fluid.

Refill with Fresh Fork Oil

1. Choose the correct oil: Always use the manufacturer-recommended fork oil for the TS8 R 150. Using the wrong type of oil can negatively affect the fork’s performance.
2. Fill the fork with oil: Pour the recommended amount of suspension oil into the fork. Follow the specifications in the owner’s manual for the correct oil level. It’s important to ensure that the oil level is correct to maintain proper damping performance.
3. Reinstall the lower legs: Once the oil is filled, slide the lower legs back onto the stanchions and ensure the parts are properly aligned.
4. Tighten bolts: Use a torque wrench [paid link] to tighten the bolts securing the lower legs. Be sure to follow the manufacturer’s torque specifications to avoid over-tightening or under-tightening.

Step 4: Lubricate the Seals and Stanchions

Proper lubrication of the seals and stanchions helps reduce friction and keeps the fork operating smoothly.

Lubricate the Fork Seals

1. Clean and lubricate the seals: Apply a small amount of suspension grease to the seals before reassembling the fork. This will help reduce wear and ensure smooth operation.
2. Check for damage: Inspect the seals for any cracks, tears, or wear. If the seals are damaged, replace them with new ones before reassembling the fork.

Lubricate the Stanchions

1. Apply suspension grease: Apply a thin layer of suspension grease to the stanchions to ensure smooth movement. Be careful not to apply too much grease, as excess grease can attract dirt and cause premature wear.

Step 5: Reassemble the Fork

After the fork has been cleaned and re-oiled, it’s time to reassemble it.

1. Reinstall the lower legs: Slide the lower legs back into position on the stanchions. Ensure everything is aligned properly before tightening the bolts.
2. Tighten the bolts: Use the torque wrench to tighten the bolts to the recommended torque settings. It’s crucial to follow the manufacturer’s specifications to prevent damaging the fork or compromising its performance.
3. Check the air spring: Use a shock pump to check the air pressure in the fork. Adjust the pressure according to the rider’s weight and riding style. The air pressure setting is crucial for setting the correct sag and ensuring the fork absorbs impacts effectively.

Step 6: Test the Fork

Once the fork has been reassembled, it’s time to test it to ensure everything is functioning properly.

1. Perform a quick test: Compress the fork a few times to ensure it moves smoothly and without resistance. Check for any unusual sounds or stiffness.
2. Check for leaks: Inspect the seals and lower legs for any signs of oil leakage. If you notice any leaks, recheck the seal installation and the oil level.
3. Test ride: Finally, take your bike for a test ride. Pay attention to how the fork absorbs bumps, rebounds after compression, and performs during technical riding. Adjust the compression and rebound settings if needed.

Conclusion

Changing the fork oil in your Magura TS8 R 150 Suspension Fork is an essential part of maintaining its performance. Regular oil changes help maintain the fork’s damping efficiency, reduce wear, and improve the overall riding experience. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can ensure that your suspension fork continues to provide optimal performance and comfort on your mountain biking adventures. Always use the correct suspension oil and make necessary adjustments to air pressure, compression, and rebound for a customized ride that suits your needs.