How to Rebuild Your Deluxe Ultimate RCT Rear Shock at Home

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Rebuilding your RockShox Deluxe Ultimate RCT rear shock is a crucial skill for maintaining the performance and longevity of your bike. Over time, the shock can lose its efficiency due to wear and tear, dirt, and lack of proper maintenance. Regular rebuilds will keep your shock performing at its peak and enhance your overall riding experience. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the process of rebuilding your Deluxe Ultimate RCT rear shock at home, ensuring you have everything you need for a smooth, efficient process.

Tools Required

  • Shock pump
  • 5mm Allen wrench [paid link]
  • 10mm socket wrench
  • RockShox Deluxe Ultimate RCT service kit
  • Torque wrench [paid link]
  • Grease (specific to bike suspension)
  • Clean rags
  • Isopropyl alcohol or suspension cleaner
  • 2.5mm and 3mm Allen wrench [paid link]
  • Schrader valve tool (if applicable)

Preparation and Safety

Before diving into the rebuild, ensure you have a clean, well-lit workspace. Make sure you wear protective gloves to avoid getting dirt or grease on the shock components. You should also have a clean towel and suspension fluid available, as dirt and grime need to be kept out of the components during the rebuild.

Step 1: Removing the Shock from the Bike

The first step in the rebuild process is to remove the Deluxe Ultimate RCT rear shock from your bike.

  1. Loosen the bolts: Use a 5mm Allen wrench to loosen the bolts securing the shock to the frame.
  2. Remove the shock: After the bolts are loosened, carefully slide the shock out of the frame.

Make sure to inspect the shock’s condition while it’s off the bike. Look for any noticeable damage or excessive wear that may indicate the need for further repairs.

Step 2: Disassembling the Rear Shock

To begin the rebuild, you’ll need to disassemble the shock carefully to access the internal components. The Deluxe Ultimate RCT has a specialized air spring and damping system, so precise handling is important.

  1. Remove the air sleeve: Use a 10mm socket wrench to remove the air sleeve from the body of the shock. This is the section that holds the air pressure, which can be adjusted for various riding conditions.
  2. Drain the oil: Once the air sleeve is removed, turn the shock upside down and let the oil drain into a clean container. Be sure to wear gloves, as the oil can be dirty and sticky.
  3. Remove the damping assembly: Using a 2.5mm Allen wrench, carefully remove the screws holding the damping assembly in place. This component controls the rebound and compression settings of the shock.

Be cautious when handling the internal components, as they are precision-machined and sensitive to dirt and debris.

Step 3: Cleaning the Components

A clean shock is essential for smooth operation. Use a clean rag and isopropyl alcohol or suspension cleaner to wipe down the shock’s components.

  1. Clean the air sleeve and shock body: Wipe away any dirt or oil buildup on the air sleeve and shock body. Pay attention to the seals and bushings to ensure they’re free from debris.
  2. Inspect the seals: Check all seals for wear or damage. Replace any seals that appear cracked or deteriorated, as this could affect the performance of your shock.
  3. Clean the damping assembly: Use alcohol or suspension cleaner to clean the damping assembly and ensure that all the oil passages are clear.

Step 4: Replacing the Oil and Seals

Replacing the oil and seals is essential to maintaining proper shock performance. Use the oil recommended by RockShox for your specific model.

  1. Install the new seals: Carefully place the new seals onto the air sleeve and damping assembly. Ensure the seals are properly seated to prevent leaks.
  2. Add fresh oil: Fill the shock body with the appropriate amount of fresh suspension oil. Be sure to follow RockShox’s specifications for the correct amount of oil for your model.
  3. Reassemble the shock: Once the seals are in place and the oil is added, reassemble the shock. Start with the damping assembly, followed by the air sleeve.

Make sure everything is securely tightened to prevent any issues during operation. Use a torque wrench [paid link] to apply the correct torque to the fasteners.

Step 5: Reattaching the Shock to the Bike

With the shock rebuilt, it’s time to reinstall it onto your bike.

  1. Reinstall the shock: Slide the shock back into its mount on the bike frame.
  2. Tighten the bolts: Use the 5mm Allen wrench to securely tighten the bolts that hold the shock in place. Be sure not to overtighten, as this can cause damage to the shock or frame.
  3. Check alignment: Ensure the shock is properly aligned with the frame and all parts are seated correctly.

Step 6: Setting the Air Pressure and Adjustments

Once the shock is back on the bike, it’s essential to set the correct air pressure and adjust the rebound and compression settings for optimal performance.

  1. Set the air pressure: Use a shock pump to adjust the air pressure according to your rider weight and preferred riding style. Typically, RockShox recommends setting the air pressure to 30% of the shock’s travel as sag.
  2. Adjust the rebound and compression: Fine-tune the rebound and compression settings based on your preferences. Start with a middle setting and adjust based on trail conditions and your riding style.

Step 7: Testing and Fine-Tuning

After the rebuild, it’s time to test the shock on the trail to ensure everything is working as expected.

  1. Test on a smooth surface: Begin by riding on a flat, smooth surface to check for any unusual sounds or performance issues.
  2. Adjust settings if necessary: If the shock feels too soft, too stiff, or there is too much rebound, make further adjustments to the air pressure or damping settings.

It’s normal to make small tweaks after the rebuild to get the perfect feel for your riding style.

Troubleshooting Common Set-Up Issues

If you encounter any performance issues after the rebuild, here are a few common problems and solutions:

  • Shock feels too soft: This can be caused by insufficient air pressure or worn-out seals. Check the air pressure and inspect the seals for damage.
  • Shock has too much rebound: If the shock extends too quickly, it could be that the rebound is set too fast. Adjust the rebound dial to slow down the return.
  • No damping effect: If you notice no change when adjusting the compression or rebound, the damping oil might be contaminated or improperly replaced. Rebuild the shock and ensure the correct amount of oil is used.

Customization and Optimization for Better Performance

The Deluxe Ultimate RCT rear shock can be fine-tuned to suit your specific riding preferences. Here are some tips for optimizing performance:

  1. Adjust air pressure: By experimenting with different air pressures, you can optimize the shock for different riding conditions. Lower pressure offers more plushness and comfort, while higher pressure is better for aggressive riding and handling bigger hits.
  2. Tune compression and rebound settings: For more technical trails, increase compression to prevent bottoming out. Adjust the rebound to control the shock’s return speed, ensuring a controlled ride.
  3. Upgrade seals and oils: High-performance seals and oils can enhance the shock’s longevity and responsiveness. Consider upgrading to higher-end seals or oils designed for racing or extreme conditions.

Compatibility with Other Drivetrain Components

When rebuilding your RockShox Deluxe Ultimate RCT rear shock, it’s important to consider compatibility with your bike’s other components. The shock’s performance may be affected by the type of suspension fork, wheels, and drivetrain you use. For the best performance, make sure the shock is paired with compatible components designed for your bike’s suspension system.

By properly maintaining and adjusting your Deluxe Ultimate RCT rear shock, you can enjoy a smoother, more controlled ride, ensuring peak performance on every trail.