Rebuilding your Cane Creek DBinline rear shock is a crucial part of maintaining its performance and extending its lifespan. With regular use, components like seals, oil, and damping systems can wear out, resulting in reduced efficiency and ride quality. Fortunately, rebuilding the shock at home is possible with the right tools, knowledge, and care.

This guide will walk you through the entire process of rebuilding your DBinline rear shock, from disassembly to reassembly, with step-by-step instructions, troubleshooting tips, and maintenance advice.

Tools Required

• Cane Creek DBinline shock rebuild kit
• Shock pump
• Torque wrench [paid link]
• 10mm, 8mm, and 6mm Allen wrenches [paid link]
• Snap ring pliers
• Clean lint-free cloths
• Isopropyl alcohol or shock cleaner
• Grease (light or medium-duty)
• Needle-nose pliers
• Small pick or hook tool
• Small container for oil
• Magnetic tray for small parts

Preparing Your Workspace

Before you begin the rebuild process, ensure that you have a clean, dry workspace with plenty of light. Proper organization is key to making the job easier and avoiding the loss of small components. Lay down a clean cloth to prevent any parts from getting dirty or damaged. Have all your tools and parts ready and organized.

Step-by-Step Rebuild Process

Step 1: Remove the Rear Shock

1. Disconnect the shock from the frame: Use an 8mm Allen wrench [paid link] to remove the bolts securing the rear shock to the bike frame. Be careful not to damage any components while doing this.
2. Place the shock on a soft surface: Place the shock on a clean, soft cloth to protect it from scratches or damage while disassembling.

Step 2: Disassemble the Shock

1. Remove the air canister: Using the appropriate size Allen wrench [paid link] (usually 8mm), carefully loosen the bolts on the shock’s air canister. The air canister is where the shock’s air pressure is held, and you must relieve any air pressure inside before continuing.
2. Pry off the air canister: Use a rubber mallet or your hands to gently pry the air canister off the shock body. Be cautious as there may still be residual pressure. This will expose the damper shaft and internal seals.

Step 3: Clean the Shock Body and Damper Shaft

1. Clean the shock body: Use isopropyl alcohol or a shock-specific cleaner to wipe down the shock body, removing any dirt, grime, and old oil. This ensures that no contaminants will damage the shock during reassembly.
2. Clean the damper shaft: Carefully clean the damper shaft with a lint-free cloth. Ensure no dirt or debris enters the shock’s internals.

Step 4: Inspect Internal Components

1. Check seals and O-rings: Inspect the seals and O-rings for signs of wear or damage. If they are cracked, frayed, or torn, they must be replaced. These components are crucial for maintaining proper air and oil seals.
2. Inspect the damper piston and rod: Check the damper piston and rod for any signs of wear, scratches, or damage. Any visible damage to these parts means it’s time to replace them.

Step 5: Replace Seals and O-rings

1. Remove old seals and O-rings: Use a small pick or hook tool to carefully remove the old seals and O-rings. Be sure not to scratch or damage the shock body.
2. Install new seals and O-rings: Apply a light coating of suspension grease to the new seals and O-rings before installing them. Gently slide the new parts into place, ensuring a snug fit.

Step 6: Refill the Shock with Oil

1. Check oil levels: Depending on the type of DBinline shock you have, it will require a specific type of oil and quantity. Refer to your Cane Creek DBinline manual for the correct oil specifications.
2. Pour in new shock oil: Carefully pour the recommended amount of oil into the shock body. You can do this by using a syringe or small funnel to avoid spills. Make sure that the oil level is consistent with the manufacturer’s instructions.

Step 7: Reassemble the Shock

1. Install the damper rod and piston: Carefully insert the damper rod and piston back into the shock body. Ensure that they are correctly aligned before securing them.
2. Attach the air canister: Gently slide the air canister back onto the shock body. Tighten the bolts, ensuring that they are secure but not over-torqued.
3. Check for leaks: Before fully tightening everything, make sure that there are no air leaks or oil spills. The air canister should seat firmly against the shock body.

Step 8: Reinstall the Shock

1. Reconnect the shock to the bike frame: Using the same 8mm Allen wrench, reattach the shock to your bike’s frame. Tighten the bolts to the manufacturer’s recommended torque settings.
2. Recheck all bolts: Double-check that all bolts are properly torqued, and ensure that the shock is securely in place.

Step 9: Reinflate the Shock

1. Check air pressure: Using a shock pump, check the air pressure in the shock. Adjust the pressure to the manufacturer’s recommended settings based on your rider weight and desired performance.
2. Test the shock: After the rebuild, compress the shock a few times to make sure it feels smooth and consistent. Listen for any abnormal sounds or signs of resistance.

Troubleshooting Common Set-Up Issues

1. Leaking air or oil: If you notice air or oil leaking from the shock, it may indicate a problem with the seals or the air canister. Inspect and replace any worn seals or O-rings.
2. Loss of damping performance: A loss of damping can result from inadequate oil levels, worn internal components, or a need for an oil change. Ensure that all parts are clean and that the oil is fresh and at the correct level.
3. Shock feels harsh or sluggish: This could be a result of incorrect air pressure, improper oil levels, or an issue with the damper components. Double-check the oil viscosity and air pressure, and verify that the shock is reassembled properly.

Customizing and Optimizing the DBinline Rear Shock

To optimize the DBinline rear shock for your riding style, consider making adjustments to the rebound and compression settings. The DBinline offers excellent adjustability, allowing riders to fine-tune the shock for different terrain types, from smooth roads to rugged trails.

1. Adjusting rebound: The rebound controls how quickly the shock returns to its original position after compression. Faster rebound works better for smoother surfaces, while slower rebound provides better control on rougher terrains.
2. Compression tuning: The compression settings control how the shock compresses under load. Increasing compression will help with more efficient pedaling, while reducing it will provide a smoother ride over bumps and obstacles.

By experimenting with different settings, you can find the perfect balance between comfort, efficiency, and control.

Compatibility with Other Drivetrain Components

The Cane Creek DBinline rear shock is designed to work with a wide range of bike frames, but compatibility can vary depending on your bike’s specific design. Always ensure that the shock’s mounting hardware matches your bike’s frame and that the shock length and stroke are appropriate for your setup.

When replacing your rear shock, also consider the performance characteristics of your front fork to maintain a balanced ride. If your fork and rear shock are mismatched in terms of damping and spring rates, it can lead to an uncomfortable ride and poor handling.

Conclusion

Rebuilding your Cane Creek DBinline rear shock at home is a manageable task that can significantly improve the performance and lifespan of your shock. By following the steps outlined above and maintaining regular care, you can ensure that your DBinline shock performs optimally, providing a smoother and more controlled ride. Remember to always follow the manufacturer’s specifications for oil, seal maintenance, and adjustments to ensure top-notch performance.