How to Rebuild Your Bomber CR Coil Rear Shock at Home

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Rebuilding the Bomber CR Coil [paid link] Rear Shock is a crucial maintenance task to ensure that your rear shock performs optimally for the long term. Over time, the shock can lose performance due to wear, fluid degradation, or seal failure. Rebuilding it at home not only saves you time and money, but also allows you to maintain a deeper connection with your bike’s suspension setup. This guide provides a detailed, step-by-step process for rebuilding the Bomber CR Coil [paid link] Rear Shock.

Tools Required

  • Shock pump
  • 8mm and 10mm wrenches
  • Torx T25 and T30 bits
  • Allen wrenches [paid link] (size 5mm, 6mm)
  • Oil (Marzocchi recommended)
  • Coil spring compression tool
  • Sealant (compatible with Marzocchi products)
  • Replacement seals and o-rings
  • Cleaning rags
  • Small flathead screwdriver
  • Workbench with clamp (optional)

Preparation and Removal

Before you begin the rebuild process, ensure that you are working in a clean, organized space. Here are the initial steps to prepare:

1. Remove the Rear Shock

  • Carefully detach the Bomber CR Coil shock from the bike frame using the appropriate wrenches.
  • Remove any hardware that holds the shock in place. Make sure to keep the mounting bolts and washers in a safe location for reinstallation.

2. Depressurize the Shock

  • Using a shock pump, reduce the pressure from the shock. This is essential before any disassembly to avoid injury or damage.

3. Remove the Coil Spring

  • Use the coil spring compression tool to relieve tension on the spring. Once relieved, carefully slide the spring off the shock. Ensure you don’t damage the spring or the shock’s internals during this process.

Disassembly

Now that the shock is removed and depressurized, you can proceed with the disassembly.

4. Remove the Shock Eyelets

  • Using an 8mm wrench, carefully remove the shock eyelets at both ends of the shock. The eyelets secure the shock to the frame and need to be detached before accessing the internals.

5. Extract the Air Sleeve

  • Once the eyelets are off, gently slide off the air sleeve, exposing the internal damping assembly. Take care not to damage any components during this step.

6. Drain the Old Oil

  • Place the shock upright and carefully drain the old oil from the shock body. Allow the oil to fully drain out into a container. Dispose of the old oil responsibly.

Inspection and Cleaning

With the shock disassembled, take the time to inspect and clean each part to ensure smooth operation after reassembly.

7. Inspect Internal Components

  • Check the damping unit, seals, and o-rings for signs of wear or damage. Pay attention to any scratches, dents, or dirt buildup. Any damaged or worn components should be replaced to prevent performance issues in the future.

8. Clean the Shock Body

  • Use a clean rag to wipe down the shock body, removing any dirt, grime, and old oil. Cleanliness is key to maintaining optimal suspension performance.

9. Replace Worn Seals and O-Rings

  • Carefully replace any damaged seals or o-rings. Be sure to use Marzocchi-approved replacement parts to ensure proper fitment and function.

Reassembly

Once the shock components have been cleaned and inspected, you can begin reassembling the Bomber CR Coil Rear Shock.

10. Reinstall the Damping Assembly

  • Place the damping assembly back into the shock body. Ensure that it is seated properly and that no debris or dirt is trapped inside.

11. Add Fresh Oil

  • Refill the shock with the recommended Marzocchi oil. The oil plays a vital role in damping performance, so ensure that you use the correct type and quantity for the Bomber CR Coil model. Follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for oil levels to prevent over- or under-filling.

12. Reinstall the Air Sleeve

  • Once the oil is added, carefully slide the air sleeve back onto the shock body. Ensure that it is properly aligned and seated to prevent leakage or poor performance.

13. Install New Seals

  • Reinstall the new seals around the air sleeve and any other sealing areas. These seals prevent air and oil leaks, ensuring proper shock performance.

14. Reinstall the Coil Spring

  • Place the coil spring back onto the shock, ensuring that it is aligned correctly with the shock body. Use the compression tool to re-tension the spring, securing it in place.

Final Adjustments and Installation

With the shock reassembled, it’s time to make any final adjustments before reinstalling the shock onto your bike.

15. Set the Proper Shock Pressure

  • Using a shock pump, inflate the shock to the recommended pressure, as specified by Marzocchi for your weight and riding style. The Bomber CR Coil typically does not use an air spring but relies on the coil spring’s preload, so focus on adjusting the preload to your desired comfort level.

16. Reinstall the Shock on the Bike

  • Carefully reinstall the shock back onto the frame. Tighten all bolts to the manufacturer’s torque specifications using the correct wrenches. Ensure the shock is secured firmly to avoid any movement or rattling during rides.

17. Check for Leaks and Perform a Test Ride

  • Before going on a full ride, inspect the shock for any signs of oil leakage or improper assembly. Once satisfied with the installation, take the bike for a test ride. Pay attention to any unusual sounds, sag, or stiffness, which could indicate a problem with the rebuild.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

1. Shock Feels Too Soft or Too Stiff

  • Adjust the coil spring preload to change the shock’s responsiveness. If the shock is too soft, increase the preload. If too stiff, decrease it. Make sure the coil spring is appropriate for your weight and riding style.

2. Oil Leaks

  • If oil is leaking from the shock, ensure that all seals and o-rings were replaced properly. Check for proper installation of the air sleeve and ensure it is fully seated.

3. Inconsistent Damping

  • If you notice inconsistent damping or an odd feel while riding, it could be due to improper oil levels or air trapped in the shock. Double-check the oil fill and perform a bleed if necessary.

Customization and Optimization

Optimizing the Bomber CR Coil Rear Shock for your riding style can significantly improve performance. Here are some recommendations:

  • Adjust Coil Spring Preload: For optimal performance, adjust the preload based on your weight and riding conditions. A heavier rider might need a stiffer coil spring, while a lighter rider may require a softer one.
  • Experiment with Damping Settings: Fine-tune the rebound and compression settings to suit your preferred riding style, terrain, and conditions. Adjusting these settings can provide a more controlled and responsive ride.
  • Upgrade the Coil Spring: If you find that the current coil spring does not offer enough support, consider upgrading to a higher-quality spring or a different rate to match your riding style better.

Comparison with Similar Models

When comparing the Bomber CR Coil to other coil rear shocks on the market, its durability and performance stand out. However, if you are considering other models, take note of their rebound and compression settings, which may offer different levels of adjustability and responsiveness. Brands like Fox and RockShox also offer competitive coil rear shocks, but Marzocchi’s Bomber CR Coil is well-regarded for its smoothness and reliability in aggressive riding conditions.

Understanding Compatibility

The Bomber CR Coil is designed to work with a wide variety of mountain bike frames and other Marzocchi components. When considering compatibility, ensure that the shock’s dimensions match your bike frame’s shock mount and that the spring rate suits your weight and riding style. Additionally, ensure that the rebound and compression adjustments are compatible with your desired riding characteristics.

By following this guide, you will not only extend the life of your Bomber CR Coil Rear Shock but also enhance its performance, allowing you to get the most out of your ride. Rebuilding your shock at home ensures you maintain full control over your bike’s suspension system, ultimately improving both your riding experience and the longevity of your equipment.