Rebuilding the Super Deluxe Ultimate RC2T rear shock from RockShox is a precise and rewarding task that can significantly enhance the performance of your mountain bike. Whether you’re maintaining your shock to keep it in peak condition or resolving issues that may have cropped up during your ride, performing a rebuild at home can save you time and money. This guide will walk you through the step-by-step process of rebuilding your Super Deluxe Ultimate RC2T rear shock, covering installation, adjustment, troubleshooting, and maintenance.
Tools Required
- 5mm, 6mm, and 8mm hex wrenches
- Torque wrench [paid link] (preferably 3-15 Nm)
- Shock pump
- Seal kit for Super Deluxe Ultimate RC2T
- RockShox fluid (or compatible fluid)
- O-ring grease
- Shock oil for damping and air spring
- Shock fluid syringe
- T25 driver
- Needle-nose pliers
- Clean rags
- Plastic cup for disassembly
Disassembly of the Super Deluxe Ultimate RC2T
1. Remove the Rear Shock from the Bike
Before starting the rebuild, the shock must be removed from the bike frame. Use a 5mm hex wrench to loosen the mounting bolts securing the shock to the bike’s rear triangle. Carefully remove the shock from the frame.
2. Deflate the Shock
Using a shock pump, fully release the air from the air chamber. Make sure all pressure is removed from the shock before proceeding. This step is crucial to avoid injury and prevent damage to the internal components.
3. Separate the Air Can from the Damper Body
To begin disassembling, first remove the rebound and compression adjuster knobs. You can use a T25 driver to carefully unscrew these knobs. Once removed, place them in a safe spot.
Next, use a 6mm hex wrench to remove the bolts holding the air can in place. Gently twist the air can off the damper body, being cautious not to damage the O-rings or seals. Set the air can aside.
Cleaning and Inspection
4. Clean the Components
Thoroughly clean all parts of the rear shock using a clean rag. Pay close attention to the piston shaft and damper body. Any dirt or grime left on these parts could cause friction and wear down the components.
5. Inspect the Seals and O-Rings
Take a moment to inspect the seals, O-rings, and bushings. These parts often wear out during regular use and need replacement. If any part appears damaged or worn, replace it with a new part from the RockShox seal kit.
6. Check the Damper and Air Chamber
Inspect the damper for any signs of oil leaks or visible damage. Similarly, check the air chamber for cracks or any signs of wear. If you notice any damage to the damper or air chamber, it may require professional servicing or replacement.
Rebuilding the Super Deluxe Ultimate RC2T
7. Reassemble the Air Can
After inspecting and cleaning, apply a thin layer of O-ring grease to the O-rings inside the air can. Reinstall the air can onto the damper body, ensuring it fits snugly and aligns correctly. Torque the bolts to the manufacturer’s recommended specifications (typically 8 Nm for these screws).
8. Add the Damping Oil
Using the shock fluid syringe, fill the damper with the appropriate damping oil. Be sure to use the recommended type of oil for the Super Deluxe Ultimate RC2T. Pour the oil slowly and evenly into the damper, ensuring the right amount of fluid is added according to the service manual.
9. Install the New Seals
Install the new seals into the air can and damper body. Carefully slide each seal into its appropriate place. Be cautious not to pinch or damage the seals during installation.
10. Fill the Air Chamber
Once the seals are in place, reassemble the air chamber. Using a shock pump, slowly pressurize the air chamber. Start by filling it to the manufacturer’s recommended pressure. Be sure to check for any air leaks during this process.
11. Replace the Rebound and Compression Adjusters
Reinstall the rebound and compression adjusters onto their respective positions. Use a T25 driver to tighten the adjusters in place, ensuring they are properly torqued to prevent any potential issues during use.
12. Reinstall the Shock onto the Bike
Once the rebuild is complete, carefully reinstall the shock onto the frame. Tighten the mounting bolts with a 5mm hex wrench and torque them to the recommended specification (typically 15-20 Nm). Double-check the shock’s alignment and ensure that the mounting hardware is secure.
Adjusting the Super Deluxe Ultimate RC2T for Optimal Performance
13. Set the Sag
Adjusting the sag is crucial to achieving optimal suspension performance. To do this, use a shock pump to add air to the shock until you achieve the desired sag, which is usually around 25-30% of the shock’s total travel. This will help optimize the shock’s performance based on your riding style and body weight.
14. Fine-Tune Compression and Rebound
The Super Deluxe Ultimate RC2T comes equipped with high and low-speed compression adjustments as well as rebound damping. Start by setting the compression and rebound to neutral positions (usually around the mid-range settings). From there, make small adjustments based on your riding needs. If you find that the shock is too soft or too firm, adjust the compression settings accordingly. Similarly, tweak the rebound to suit your riding style and the terrain.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
15. Lack of Rebound
If you find that the shock isn’t rebounding correctly, it could be due to insufficient oil in the damper. Check the oil level and refill as necessary. If the problem persists, inspect the rebound adjuster for any damage or improper installation.
16. Air Leaks
Air leaks can be caused by damaged seals or improperly torqued bolts. Ensure all seals are in good condition and properly installed. Tighten all bolts to the recommended torque and inspect the shock for any signs of leaks.
17. Excessive Stiffness or Softness
If the shock feels too stiff or too soft, the issue could be with the air pressure or the oil levels. Recheck the air pressure and adjust it accordingly. Additionally, ensure that the damping oil is at the correct level.
Conclusion
Rebuilding the Super Deluxe Ultimate RC2T rear shock at home is a manageable task that will prolong the life of your shock and improve the overall performance of your bike. By following these steps, you can ensure that your shock remains in excellent working condition, providing a smooth and responsive ride on even the most challenging trails. Regular maintenance will not only enhance your riding experience but also help prevent costly repairs down the road.