How to Service Your 36 Performance Elite Suspension Fork at Home

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The Fox 36 Performance Elite is a premium-level suspension fork designed for aggressive trail and enduro riders. With its GRIP2 damper and robust chassis, it offers top-tier performance without the additional cost of the Factory-level Kashima coating. While this fork is engineered for durability, regular servicing is key to maintaining its performance and extending its lifespan. This guide covers everything from installation and adjustment to full servicing and troubleshooting, specifically tailored to the Fox 36 Performance Elite model.

Tools Required

  • 32 mm socket wrench (for top cap removal)
  • Torque wrench [paid link] (with 5 Nm to 40 Nm range)
  • 10 mm socket or hex wrench
  • Suspension-specific grease (e.g., Slickoleum)
  • Suspension oil (Fox 20wt Gold, Fox Float Fluid)
  • Oil syringe or graduated measuring cup
  • Clean shop towels and nitrile gloves
  • Seal driver kit (specific to 36 mm stanchions)
  • Isopropyl alcohol (for cleaning parts)
  • Pick tool (for O-ring and seal removal)

Understanding the 36 Performance Elite’s Architecture

The Fox 36 Performance Elite features a GRIP2 damper, an EVOL air spring, and 36 mm stanchions. The GRIP2 damper offers high and low-speed compression and rebound adjustment. Unlike the Factory version, it lacks the Kashima coating but maintains similar internals. Knowing the internal layout is essential before any maintenance procedure, especially for tasks such as seal replacement and damper removal.

Routine Maintenance Intervals

Fox recommends a lower leg service every 50 hours and a full damper service every 125 hours. For aggressive riders or dusty environments, reducing these intervals can prevent wear and contamination. Timely maintenance helps maintain plushness and responsiveness.

Preparing for Service

Start by removing the fork from the bike. Clean it thoroughly using isopropyl alcohol. Remove the front wheel, brake caliper, and axle. Use a bike stand [paid link] for stability during service. Always depressurize the air spring by removing the Schrader valve core before starting any disassembly.

Performing the Lower Leg Service

  1. Remove the air from the fork completely.
  2. Unscrew the damper and air spring side bolts with a 10 mm socket.
  3. Tap the bolts gently with a mallet to release the lower legs from the uppers.
  4. Drain the old oil and clean the inside of the lower legs thoroughly.
  5. Remove the dust wipers and foam rings using a pick tool.
  6. Soak new foam rings in fresh 20wt Gold oil before installing.
  7. Press new dust wipers using a seal driver for 36 mm stanchions.
  8. Apply Slickoleum on the inner lip of the seals before reassembly.

Reinstalling the Lower Legs

Reinstall the lower legs onto the stanchions carefully. Add 40 ml of 20wt Gold oil to the damper side and 10 ml of Float Fluid to the air spring side before sealing. Torque the bolts to manufacturer specifications using a torque wrench [paid link].

Air Spring Service Procedure

To service the EVOL air spring:

  • Remove the top cap using a 32 mm socket.
  • Slide out the air shaft assembly.
  • Inspect and replace O-rings and shaft seals.
  • Lubricate with Slickoleum and reinsert carefully.
  • Reinstall the top cap to 40 Nm.

The EVOL negative air chamber must be charged properly for full travel and support. Inflate the fork to your preferred PSI and equalize by compressing the fork fully several times.

Damper Bleeding and Servicing

For the GRIP2 damper:

  • Damper service requires damper removal from the stanchion.
  • Bleed the damper using the closed-cartridge bleed procedure.
  • Use only Fox 5wt Teflon-infused oil for GRIP2 cartridges.
  • Reinstall the damper and torque top cap to 40 Nm.

Unless you have experience with suspension bleeding, consider sending the damper to a Fox service center. Incorrect bleeding can cause cavitation and poor damping performance.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

1. Loss of Travel
Occurs when the negative chamber fails to equalize. Reset by releasing air and compressing the fork fully before reinflating.

2. Sticky Suspension Movement
Caused by contaminated oil or dry seals. Resolve by cleaning and re-lubing the lower legs and replacing the foam rings.

3. Excessive Oil Leaks
Usually due to worn or improperly installed seals. Replace both foam rings and dust wipers to resolve.

4. Harsh or Unresponsive Damping
May indicate damper oil contamination or improper rebound/compression settings. Consider full damper service if issues persist.

Customizing Performance Settings

The GRIP2 damper provides a wide range of tuning options:

  • High-Speed Compression (HSC): Fine-tunes support during hard impacts.
  • Low-Speed Compression (LSC): Controls chassis movement and brake dive.
  • High-Speed Rebound (HSR): Adjusts return rate after big hits.
  • Low-Speed Rebound (LSR): Affects overall plushness and small bump compliance.

Test settings incrementally during trail rides to identify the best setup for your terrain and riding style.

Compatibility with Other Components

The 36 Performance Elite fork is designed for 29″ wheels with a maximum tire width of 2.6″. It pairs well with:

  • Boost front hubs (15×110 mm spacing)
  • 180 mm to 203 mm brake rotors (Post-mount)
  • Tapered headtubes (1.5″ to 1-1/8″)

It is also compatible with volume spacers for fine-tuning air spring progression.

Comparing with Similar Forks

  • Fox 36 Factory: Same damper and chassis, but with Kashima coating for reduced friction.
  • RockShox Lyrik Ultimate: Comparable adjustability with slightly different ride feel due to the Charger 3 damper.
  • Fox 38 Performance Elite: More stiffness and better suited for enduro racing but adds weight.

Choose the 36 Performance Elite if you want top-tier performance without the added cost of the Factory model, and if stiffness-to-weight ratio is a priority.

FAQ

Q1. How often should I service my 36 Performance Elite fork?
Every 50 hours for lower legs and 125 hours for full damper and air spring service.

Q2. Can I use aftermarket seals and oil?
Use only Fox-approved seals and fluids to ensure compatibility and warranty compliance.

Q3. What PSI should I run in my fork?
It depends on your weight and riding style. Fox offers a tuning guide, but start with 75–90 PSI for riders in the 150–180 lb range.

Q4. My fork feels harsh even with open compression—what should I check?
Check for dry seals, improper air pressure, or an unserviced damper. A full lower leg and air spring service often resolves this.

Q5. Can I convert the fork to a different travel?
Yes, by replacing the air shaft. Fox offers air shafts in various lengths to suit 150 mm to 170 mm travel.

Q6. How do I know if my GRIP2 damper needs bleeding?
Symptoms include inconsistent rebound, loss of damping, or a sloshing sound when compressed. Servicing is required at 125 hours or earlier if symptoms appear.

Conclusion

The Fox 36 Performance Elite suspension fork offers precise control, customizable settings, and premium ride quality. By following this at-home service guide, you can ensure your fork remains responsive and durable, maximizing your performance on every ride. Regular maintenance not only prolongs fork life but also enhances your experience on technical trails.