The Fox 38 Performance Elite is a high-performance suspension fork designed for aggressive trail and enduro riding. Servicing this fork regularly is essential to maintaining peak performance and ensuring longevity. This guide provides a comprehensive, step-by-step overview for at-home maintenance, including installation insights, routine service, troubleshooting, and performance optimization tailored exclusively to the 38 Performance Elite.
Tools Required
- 10 mm, 6 mm, and 5 mm hex wrenches
- Torque wrench [paid link]
- Suspension oil (Fox 20wt Gold and Float Fluid)
- Clean shop rags
- Shock pump
- Rubber mallet
- Seal driver or PVC pipe (crown race-sized)
- Pick tool
- Isopropyl alcohol (99%)
- Grease (suspension-specific)
- Oil measuring cup or syringe
Understanding the 38 Performance Elite
The Fox 38 Performance Elite shares chassis features with the Factory series but uses a black anodized stanchion instead of the Kashima coating. It comes equipped with a GRIP2 damper and a floating axle for increased stiffness and better alignment. It is built for enduro-style terrain, offering excellent adjustability in both low- and high-speed compression and rebound.
Pre-Service Setup
Before servicing, ensure the bike is clean and stable on a work stand. Remove the front wheel and release all air from the fork. Use the shock pump’s release valve to avoid sudden pressure loss. Then, remove the brake caliper and unclip any hose guides to allow unhindered access to the fork.
Lower Leg Service
This is a standard maintenance procedure required every 30–50 hours of riding.
Removing Lower Legs
Start by loosening the foot nuts at the base of each lower leg using a 10 mm hex wrench. Gently tap them with a rubber mallet to free the legs. Use a pick to remove the crush washers. Carefully slide the lowers off the stanchions and set them aside.
Cleaning and Inspection
Clean the inside of the lower legs using a lint-free rag and isopropyl alcohol. Check the foam rings under the dust wipers for dirt saturation—replace or clean thoroughly if needed. Examine the stanchions for wear or scoring.
Lubrication and Reassembly
Saturate the foam rings with 20wt Gold oil and reinstall. Apply fresh grease to the dust wipers. Inject 10 cc of 20wt Gold into each leg before sliding the lowers back on. Replace crush washers, torque the foot nuts to 5.1 Nm, and clean the exterior.
Air Spring Service
Fox recommends servicing the air spring every 125 hours. For the 38 Performance Elite, this involves removing the air-side top cap using a 6 mm hex, then disassembling the air shaft.
Disassembly and Cleaning
Remove the top cap and gently slide out the air shaft assembly. Use isopropyl alcohol to clean all components. Pay close attention to the air piston seal and glide rings. Replace any parts showing signs of deformation or excessive wear.
Reassembly
Grease the air piston seals with suspension-specific grease and reinstall the air shaft. Torque the top cap to manufacturer specifications and refill the air chamber using a shock pump to your desired pressure.
Damper Service (Basic)
While a full GRIP2 damper service requires special tools and is best left to a technician, you can perform a basic service to refresh the oil and ensure smooth operation.
Oil Refresh
Remove the damper side top cap using a 6 mm hex and drain the old oil. Refill with the recommended oil volume and viscosity. Re-torque the top cap to specification. This process restores damping performance between full overhauls.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Excessive Fork Dive
- Check air pressure. Add volume spacers to increase progressivity.
Harsh Top-Out
- Inspect air shaft seals and glide rings for damage. Re-grease and reassemble properly.
Oil Leaking from Dust Seals
- Indicates worn or contaminated wipers. Replace seals and foam rings.
Stiction or Notchy Feel
- Usually from dry or dirty seals. Perform lower leg service with fresh oil and grease.
Optimizing for Performance
Tuning the 38 Performance Elite is straightforward due to its external adjusters. Experiment with clicker settings while maintaining a base tune:
- Start with factory-recommended PSI and rebound/compression clicks.
- Adjust high-speed compression for big hit support.
- Use low-speed rebound to control ride height.
- Add volume spacers to prevent bottom-out without affecting mid-stroke support.
Document your settings and test them on different terrains to find the ideal configuration.
Compatibility with Other Drivetrain Components
The Fox 38 Performance Elite is compatible with all standard 15×110 mm Boost front hubs and fits frames with tapered steerer tubes. Brake mount compatibility includes 180 mm rotors directly and larger sizes with adapters. Ensure axle type and rotor size match your current wheel and brake setup.
The floating axle is designed to work with specific hub tolerances—consult your hub manufacturer’s specifications if alignment issues arise.
Comparing Fox 38 Performance Elite to Similar Models
Fox 38 Factory
- Shares the same chassis but features Kashima-coated stanchions for slightly better durability and reduced friction.
Fox 36 Performance Elite
- Lighter, more suitable for trail or light enduro; not as stiff or supportive under aggressive use.
RockShox ZEB Ultimate
- Comparable travel and stiffness. Fox’s GRIP2 offers finer tuning versus RockShox’s Charger 3.
When choosing between models, consider your riding style. The 38 Performance Elite stands out for aggressive descents with excellent adjustability and stiffness.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How often should I service the Fox 38 Performance Elite fork?
Basic lower leg service should be done every 30–50 hours. A full air spring service is recommended at 125 hours, and a complete damper service annually or every 200 hours.
2. Can I use generic suspension oil for the Fox 38?
No. Always use Fox-recommended oils like 20wt Gold and Float Fluid to ensure proper damping and lubrication performance.
3. Do I need special tools to service the 38 Performance Elite at home?
Basic service can be done with common tools, but a full damper rebuild requires Fox-specific tools and knowledge.
4. How can I adjust the fork for a more progressive feel?
Add volume spacers to the air spring. This increases resistance at the end of the stroke, preventing bottom-out.
5. What PSI should I use for the air spring?
Refer to Fox’s rider weight chart, typically starting around 75–85 PSI for a 75 kg rider, then fine-tune based on sag and ride feel.
6. Can I upgrade my Performance Elite to Factory level?
The internal components are similar, but the Factory’s main advantage is the Kashima coating. Performance Elite delivers similar performance with minor friction differences.
Conclusion
Servicing your Fox 38 Performance Elite at home is a rewarding process that enhances ride quality and fork longevity. By following the outlined maintenance steps and tuning guidance, riders can ensure optimal performance across demanding terrains. Always adhere to service intervals and use Fox-approved materials to protect your investment.