Rebuilding your RockShox Monarch R rear shock at home can greatly extend its life and improve its performance. This guide will walk you through the detailed steps for disassembling, servicing, and reassembling your Monarch R shock. With proper tools and attention to detail, you can maintain your shock to ensure optimal performance during every ride.

Tools Required

Before beginning the rebuild process, make sure you have the following tools available:

• 8mm and 10mm Allen wrenches [paid link]
• Torque wrench [paid link]
• T25 Torx driver
• Small flathead screwdriver
• Soft jawed vice
• RockShox Monarch R rebuild kit
• 30mm spanner wrench
• Clean, lint-free cloths
• Rubber gloves
• Shock oil (specific to Monarch R)
• Isopropyl alcohol for cleaning

Preparation

Clean Your Work Area

Before starting, ensure your workspace is clean and free of debris. Lay down a clean cloth or mat to protect the shock from any accidental scratches or damage. Gather all necessary tools and components before proceeding.

Disassemble the Shock

1. Remove the Shock from the Bike:
   • Using an 8mm Allen wrench [paid link], unscrew the mounting bolts to remove the rear shock from the bike frame. Place the shock on a clean surface to begin the disassembly.
2. Remove the Air Valve Cap:
   • Use the 10mm Allen wrench [paid link] to unscrew the air valve cap. This will allow you to depressurize the shock before continuing with the rebuild process. Always ensure the shock is completely depressurized to avoid injury or damage to the components.
3. Remove the Lockout Lever (if applicable):
   • If your Monarch R features a lockout lever, use a T25 Torx driver to remove the screws holding the lever assembly in place. This step will give you full access to the shock internals.

Disassembling the Shock

Remove the Shock’s Body

1. Loosen the Reservoir Cap:
   • Use the 30mm spanner wrench to unscrew the reservoir cap. Once removed, you should see the internal damper and piston assembly.
2. Extract the Piston Assembly:
   • Carefully slide the piston assembly out of the shock body. Take note of the orientation and placement of each part for reassembly. Keep track of any washers or seals as you go, as they may need replacement.
3. Remove the Internal Components:
   • Use the flathead screwdriver to remove the seals and o-rings within the shock body. Be gentle to avoid damaging the internal surfaces. Clean and inspect these components for wear.

Cleaning and Inspection

Clean the Shock Body and Components

1. Clean the Shock Body:
   • Use isopropyl alcohol and a lint-free cloth to thoroughly clean the inside of the shock body. Ensure all oil residue is removed from the shock’s internal surface. This is essential for the performance and longevity of the shock.
2. Inspect Internal Components:
   • Carefully inspect the piston assembly, shaft, and seals for any signs of wear, cracks, or damage. If any parts are damaged, replace them using the parts provided in your rebuild kit.
3. Check the Oil:
   • Examine the shock oil for contamination or degradation. Replace the oil with fresh fluid from the rebuild kit, ensuring the proper type and amount for your Monarch R model.

Rebuilding the Monarch R Rear Shock

Reassemble the Piston Assembly

1. Install New Seals and O-Rings:
   • Start by placing new seals and o-rings into the shock body. Lubricate them lightly with fresh shock oil before installing to ensure proper sealing and smooth operation.
2. Insert the Piston Assembly:
   • Carefully slide the piston assembly back into the shock body. Ensure that it is oriented correctly, and that it moves freely without obstruction. You may need to tap it gently into place with a soft tool, but be cautious not to damage any components.
3. Add Fresh Oil:
   • Pour the correct amount of shock oil into the body. Follow the specific oil volume recommendations from the RockShox manual for your Monarch R shock. Use a syringe or a small funnel to avoid spilling and ensure accurate measurements.
4. Reinstall the Reservoir Cap:
   • Once the piston assembly and oil are in place, carefully screw the reservoir cap back onto the shock body. Tighten it using the 30mm spanner wrench. Do not overtighten, as this could damage the threads.

Reassemble the Shock

1. Replace the Lockout Lever (if applicable):
   • Reinstall the lockout lever assembly using the T25 Torx driver to secure it back onto the shock. Ensure the lever moves smoothly and functions properly.
2. Attach the Air Valve Cap:
   • Screw the air valve cap back onto the shock, ensuring it is tightly secured. This will allow you to refill the shock with air during the final step of the rebuild process.

Testing and Fine-Tuning

Set the Air Pressure

1. Inflate the Shock:
   • Using a shock pump, inflate the Monarch R rear shock to the desired pressure. Refer to your specific rider weight and suspension setup to ensure the correct pressure.
2. Test the Rebuilt Shock:
   • Before reinstalling the shock onto the bike, compress the shock by hand to ensure it is functioning smoothly. Check for any abnormal noises or resistance, which may indicate a problem.
3. Reinstall the Shock:
   • Finally, mount the shock back onto your bike frame, securing it with the appropriate bolts using an 8mm Allen wrench. Double-check that everything is tightened to the recommended torque specifications.

Final Adjustment and Testing

1. Test Ride:
   • After reinstalling the shock, take your bike for a short ride to test the performance of the suspension. Pay attention to how the shock responds to different terrain and adjust the air pressure as needed to optimize your ride comfort and handling.
2. Fine-Tuning:
   • If necessary, adjust the rebound or compression settings to your preference using the knobs on the shock. Make small adjustments at a time and test after each change to achieve the best ride quality.

By following this detailed guide, you can successfully rebuild and maintain your RockShox Monarch R rear shock at home. Regular maintenance ensures your shock performs at its best, helping you tackle any trail with confidence.