How to Service Your 36 Factory GRIP2 Suspension Fork at Home

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Servicing the Fox 36 Factory GRIP2 suspension fork at home can restore peak performance, extend its lifespan, and ensure consistent ride quality. The GRIP2 damper is a high-performance component used in aggressive trail and enduro riding, known for its precise damping control and adjustability. This guide outlines the detailed steps, techniques, and best practices to properly service and maintain this specific fork model.

Tools Required:

  • Clean workspace with bike stand [paid link]
  • Torque wrench [paid link] with Nm scale
  • 2mm, 5mm, and 6mm hex wrenches
  • Pick set or dental tool
  • Shock pump
  • 20cc and 40cc suspension oil (Fox Racing Shox 20wt Gold recommended)
  • Fox Float Fluid or similar fork-specific lubrication oil
  • Seal driver kit
  • Rubber mallet
  • Clean rags and isopropyl alcohol
  • Fox lower leg removal tool (or soft plastic tool)
  • Nitrile gloves

Disassembly of the Fox 36 GRIP2 Fork

Before beginning, release all air pressure from the fork using the air valve. Failure to do so may result in injury or damage. Position the fork vertically and ensure the workspace is clean to avoid contamination.

Remove the lower legs by loosening the bottom bolts using a 5mm hex wrench. Gently tap the bolts with a rubber mallet to break the internal seal, then fully remove the bolts. Use a lower leg removal tool or soft plastic lever to slide the lowers off evenly. Be careful not to damage the bushings or stanchions.

Place the fork lowers upright to allow oil to drain out. Discard the old oil responsibly and clean the internals with a lint-free cloth and isopropyl alcohol.

Cleaning and Inspecting Internals

Thoroughly inspect the fork stanchions, dust wipers, foam rings, and oil seals for wear or damage. Replace seals if there are signs of cracking or excessive dirt accumulation. Remove the foam rings and soak them in suspension fluid. Clean the internal channels and oil ports using a dental pick or soft nylon brush.

Inspect the damper shaft and air spring side for any residue. Ensure the piston seals are not worn and the air shaft is clean and greased properly. Reapply float fluid to the air piston and shaft seals if necessary.

Reinstallation of Lower Legs

Reinstall the freshly lubricated foam rings into the lower legs. Apply suspension grease to the wiper seals. Carefully slide the lower legs back onto the stanchions. Align both sides evenly and push until they seat completely.

Add the correct volume of suspension oil through the bottom bolt holes: 20cc on the damper side and 40cc on the air spring side. Use Fox’s recommended 20wt Gold oil for best results. Reinstall the bottom bolts and torque to 5.7 Nm.

Cycle the fork several times to ensure even oil distribution and check for smooth travel. Inflate the air spring to the desired PSI using a shock pump, based on your rider weight and preferences.

Adjustment and Calibration

The GRIP2 damper provides four external adjustments: High-speed compression (HSC), low-speed compression (LSC), high-speed rebound (HSR), and low-speed rebound (LSR). Begin with Fox’s recommended baseline settings, then make fine adjustments based on trail feedback.

Turn each dial fully clockwise to reach the closed position, then count the recommended number of clicks counterclockwise to reach the suggested setting. Make only small changes and note each one before testing.

Routine Maintenance Recommendations

To maintain the performance and longevity of the Fox 36 GRIP2 fork, adhere to the following service intervals:

  • Every 30 hours of ride time: Clean stanchions, inspect seals, and refresh oil in the lower legs.
  • Every 100 hours or yearly (whichever comes first): Full lower leg service, foam ring soak, and oil replacement.
  • Every 200 hours: Full damper and air spring rebuild, which may require sending to an authorized Fox service center.

Using fork-specific suspension oil and parts compatible with Fox’s service kits is crucial for consistent performance.

Troubleshooting Common Set-Up Issues

If you notice harshness in travel, uneven compression, or fork sticking at sag, several issues may be present:

  • Loss of small bump sensitivity: Likely due to dry or dirty foam rings or insufficient lubrication.
  • Bottoming out too easily: Consider increasing HSC or adding volume spacers.
  • Unstable rebound: Re-check HSR and LSR settings; incorrect setup can lead to pogoing or dead feel.
  • Oil leakage: Indicates worn or damaged seals; replace them immediately and clean surrounding areas.

Accurate air pressure, regular lubrication, and clean internals will solve most ride-quality issues.

Customization and Optimization Tips

Riders can tailor the performance of the GRIP2 damper using volume spacers in the air spring leg. Adding spacers reduces air volume, resulting in a more progressive ramp-up and better support during aggressive riding. Conversely, removing spacers creates a more linear feel.

Additionally, using different suspension fluid weights or adjusting compression damping settings can tune the fork to different terrain or rider style. For enduro racing, increasing HSC can offer more mid-stroke support, while trail riders may prefer more supple LSC settings.

Model Comparison: GRIP2 vs. FIT4

While the GRIP2 damper is ideal for riders seeking high adjustability and performance tuning, the FIT4 version in the same 36 platform is better suited for those wanting lighter weight and simpler setup.

GRIP2 offers independent HSC/LSC and HSR/LSR adjustments, providing a wider tuning range. However, FIT4 forks typically weigh less and offer a 3-position lever for easy on-the-fly adjustments, making them more beginner-friendly.

Choose the GRIP2 if you prioritize aggressive riding, technical terrain handling, and fine-tuning control. FIT4 remains an excellent option for smoother trails and all-around trail riding.

Compatibility With Other Drivetrain and Frame Components

The Fox 36 GRIP2 fork is compatible with most modern trail and enduro bike frames using a 1.5″ tapered steerer and Boost 110x15mm front hub spacing. It accepts 27.5″ or 29″ wheels, depending on the specific fork configuration.

Brake mount compatibility supports 180mm and 203mm rotors with proper adapters. The GRIP2 is compatible with other Fox components like the Float X2 or DHX2 rear shocks for riders seeking a fully-tuned suspension package. It integrates well with SRAM and Shimano drivetrains, as fork operation is independent of shifting systems.

FAQs

1. How often should I service my Fox 36 GRIP2 fork?
Basic maintenance is needed every 30 hours of ride time. A full lower leg service should be performed every 100 hours, while a complete damper rebuild is recommended at 200 hours or once annually.

2. What oil should I use for servicing the GRIP2 fork?
Fox Racing Shox 20wt Gold oil is recommended for both lower leg lubrication and damping performance. Do not substitute automotive or generic oils.

3. Can I perform a full GRIP2 damper rebuild at home?
While technically possible with the correct tools and knowledge, it’s best left to trained mechanics or authorized Fox service centers due to the complexity of internal valving and bleed procedures.

4. Why is my fork not returning fully after compression?
Check for air pressure loss, dirty or dry foam rings, and incorrect rebound settings. Also inspect for oil leaks and bushing friction.

5. Are volume spacers necessary?
Not required, but they can help riders fine-tune fork progression. More spacers = more ramp-up; fewer spacers = linear feel.

6. Can I mix GRIP2 internals with other Fox fork models?
No, the GRIP2 damper is model-specific. Do not attempt to swap internals between different fork models or years unless explicitly approved by Fox.