How to Rebuild Your SIDluxe Select+ Rear Shock at Home

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Rebuilding your RockShox SIDluxe Select+ rear shock at home can extend its lifespan and improve performance. This process involves disassembling, cleaning, inspecting, and reassembling the shock with fresh seals and oil. A proper rebuild will restore optimal shock performance, improve suspension response, and eliminate unwanted noises or leaks.

Tools Required

  • 10mm socket wrench
  • 5mm, 6mm, and 8mm Allen wrenches [paid link]
  • Torque wrench [paid link]
  • Shock pump
  • Plastic or rubber mallet
  • Seal driver tool
  • 7mm and 10mm spanner
  • Isopropyl alcohol or degreaser
  • Clean rags
  • Fresh shock oil (specific to RockShox SIDluxe)
  • Replacement seals and O-rings kit
  • Rebuild kit for SIDluxe Select+
  • Large soft cloth or work mat
  • Small brush

Preparation: Setting Up for the Rebuild

Before starting the rebuild, make sure you have a clean workspace free of debris. Lay down a soft cloth to protect the shock components and your work surface. Also, gather all the tools and parts needed for the rebuild, including the RockShox rebuild kit for SIDluxe Select+, replacement seals, and fresh oil.

Step 1: Remove the Rear Shock

To begin, remove the rear shock from your bike frame. Use the 5mm and 6mm Allen wrenches [paid link] to remove the mounting bolts securing the shock to the frame. Once the shock is detached, place it on the soft cloth to protect its surface from scratches or other damage.

Step 2: Prepare the Shock for Disassembly

Place the shock in a vice or secure it gently with a soft clamp to prevent it from moving while you disassemble it. Be careful not to overtighten or damage the shock body. Use a plastic mallet to tap the shock’s body gently, ensuring any parts that are stuck or tight are loosened without causing damage.

Step 3: Disassemble the Shock

To begin disassembling, remove the air valve cap with a 10mm socket wrench and fully release the air from the shock. This will prevent any pressure from causing a sudden release during disassembly.

Next, using the appropriate Allen wrenches, carefully remove any screws that secure the shock’s components. This includes the damper adjuster screw, rebound adjuster, and the outer seal head.

Once all screws are removed, carefully pull apart the damper assembly and the shock body. Be mindful of how the parts are oriented and take note of the sequence of components as you disassemble them for reassembly later.

Step 4: Clean the Components

After disassembly, thoroughly clean each shock component using isopropyl alcohol or a degreaser. Use a small brush to remove dirt and grime from crevices and hard-to-reach areas. Clean the shock shaft, damper piston, and the inner walls of the shock body.

This step is crucial as debris or old oil can affect the shock’s performance and lead to further damage. Once all parts are clean, allow them to dry before proceeding.

Step 5: Inspect the Components

Carefully inspect each component for any wear, damage, or excessive dirt buildup. Pay particular attention to the seals and O-rings, as these parts are crucial for maintaining air pressure and preventing leaks. If any parts are worn or damaged, replace them with the components included in the RockShox SIDluxe Select+ rebuild kit.

Step 6: Reassemble the Shock

Once all parts have been cleaned and inspected, it’s time to begin the reassembly process. Start by installing the new seals and O-rings onto the damper assembly. Use a seal driver tool to ensure the seals are properly seated in their respective grooves. This ensures an airtight and fluid-tight seal during operation.

Carefully place the damper assembly back into the shock body, taking care to align the components correctly. Ensure that the rebound adjuster and damper screws are tightened to the manufacturer’s specifications, using a torque wrench [paid link] for precision.

Next, fill the shock with the correct amount of fresh shock oil as per RockShox specifications for the SIDluxe Select+. This oil lubricates the internal components and maintains proper function. Be cautious not to overfill or underfill, as both can affect the shock’s performance.

Step 7: Reinstall the Air Valve and Adjusters

After the shock is fully assembled and filled with oil, reinstall the air valve cap and ensure all adjusters are correctly reinstalled. Double-check the torque values for each screw and adjuster to avoid any future issues with the shock’s performance.

Step 8: Test the Shock

Before reinstalling the shock on your bike, use a shock pump to adjust the air pressure to your preferred settings. RockShox recommends setting the air pressure based on your rider weight, but you can fine-tune the pressure for comfort and performance.

Check the shock for any signs of air or oil leaks. Operate the shock through its full travel to ensure that it is functioning smoothly without any stiction, odd noises, or resistance.

Step 9: Reinstall the Shock on Your Bike

Once the shock passes all tests and is functioning correctly, reinstall it back onto your bike. Use the appropriate Allen wrenches to secure the shock to the frame. Make sure to torque the mounting bolts to the recommended specifications to avoid any movement or loosening while riding.

Step 10: Final Check and Adjustments

After reinstalling the shock, perform a final inspection of the bike and suspension system. Test the shock under load to ensure it operates smoothly. If necessary, adjust the rebound and compression settings to match your riding style.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

During the rebuild process, you may encounter a few common issues. Here are some solutions:

  • Shock Not Holding Air: If the shock is not holding air pressure after the rebuild, check the seals and O-rings. If they are damaged or improperly installed, the shock will not maintain proper air pressure.
  • Leaking Oil: If oil is leaking from the shock after reassembly, it’s likely that a seal was not properly seated. Recheck the seals and O-rings, and make sure they are properly installed and lubricated.
  • Excessive Stiction: Stiction can occur if the shock shaft is not properly lubricated or if there is debris inside the shock. Re-clean the components and ensure the oil is applied evenly.
  • No Rebound or Compression Adjustment: If the rebound or compression adjustments are not working, it could be a sign that the adjuster screws are incorrectly installed or the damper assembly is improperly reassembled. Double-check these components and the torque values.

Customization and Optimization Tips

To get the best performance out of your SIDluxe Select+ rear shock, consider the following tips:

  • Fine-tune Air Pressure: Adjust the air pressure based on your riding style and the type of terrain you typically ride. Lower pressures can improve traction and comfort, while higher pressures provide more support for aggressive riders or rougher trails.
  • Adjust Rebound and Compression: The rebound and compression adjustments allow you to tailor the shock to your riding needs. A faster rebound setting will help absorb small bumps more efficiently, while a slower setting may improve stability on technical descents.
  • Consider Volume Spacers: Adding or removing volume spacers from the shock can help adjust the progressivity of the suspension, providing more control over the shock’s travel.

Conclusion

Rebuilding the RockShox SIDluxe Select+ rear shock at home is a rewarding task that can improve your bike’s suspension performance and extend the lifespan of the shock. With the right tools, patience, and attention to detail, you can effectively restore your shock to peak [paid link] performance, saving money on professional repairs and ensuring a smooth, comfortable ride. Remember to follow the steps carefully, perform regular maintenance, and monitor the shock’s performance for the best results.