How to Service Your Bomber CR Coil Rear Shock Without a Mechanic

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Servicing the Bomber CR Coil [paid link] rear shock is a necessary skill for any serious rider who wants to maintain peak [paid link] performance and extend the lifespan of their suspension. While it might seem intimidating, this guide will walk you through the entire process of servicing your rear shock without requiring a mechanic. We will cover the necessary tools, step-by-step instructions for disassembly, cleaning, oil changes, reassembly, and adjustments, as well as troubleshooting common issues and tips for optimization.

Tools Required

Before you begin servicing your Bomber CR Coil [paid link] rear shock, make sure you have the following tools ready:

  • 8mm and 10mm hex wrenches
  • Torque wrench [paid link] (capable of 1-30 Nm)
  • 5mm Allen wrench [paid link]
  • 2.5mm Allen wrench [paid link]
  • Shock pump
  • Clean rags
  • Suspension fluid (specific to Marzocchi)
  • Oil bath or small container for oil drainage
  • Snap ring pliers
  • Piston driver tool
  • Replacement seals and O-rings (if needed)
  • Bicycle grease (suspension grease preferred)
  • Threadlocker (medium strength)

Preparation for Servicing

Remove the Shock from the Bike

  1. Disconnect the rear shock from the bike by loosening the bolts on both the top and bottom eyelets. Use the appropriate wrenches to avoid damaging any fasteners.
  2. Carefully remove the shock from its mount, ensuring you don’t damage any of the bushings or hardware.

Clean the Shock

Before beginning any disassembly, it’s essential to clean the exterior of the shock to prevent any debris from entering during the service. Wipe down the shock with a clean rag and remove any dirt, mud, or grease.

Disassembling the Bomber CR Coil Rear Shock

Removing the Coil Spring

  1. Loosen the preload adjuster by turning it counterclockwise to relieve any pressure on the spring.
  2. Use the appropriate tool to remove the coil spring retainer. This can be done by unthreading it from the shock body.
  3. Slide the coil spring off the shock body carefully. If necessary, use the snap ring pliers to remove any retaining rings holding the spring in place.

Disassembling the Shock

  1. Remove the air valve cover (if applicable) using the 5mm Allen wrench.
  2. Using the 8mm hex wrench, unscrew the shock’s main body. Be careful during this process to avoid damaging any seals.
  3. After unscrewing, carefully slide the shock’s shaft out of the shock body. Keep track of the parts, as some will need to be cleaned or replaced.

Removing the Damper Cartridge

  1. Use a piston driver tool to gently remove the damper cartridge from the shock body.
  2. After removing the damper, inspect the internals for any signs of wear or damage. The piston and shaft should move smoothly without resistance.

Cleaning and Inspection

Cleaning the Shock Body

  1. Using a clean rag and suspension fluid, clean the inside of the shock body thoroughly. This is vital to remove any old oil or contaminants that could affect performance.
  2. Inspect the shock body for any visible damage, cracks, or wear. If you find any issues, it may be time to replace the shock body or seek professional help.

Inspecting the Damper Cartridge

  1. Check the damper for signs of oil contamination, as this may indicate an internal failure.
  2. Inspect the rebound and compression adjusters for smooth operation. If either is stuck or difficult to turn, cleaning or replacement of internal parts may be necessary.

Replacing Seals and O-rings

  1. Carefully remove the seals from the damper shaft and piston. These seals often wear out over time and will need replacing.
  2. Replace any damaged or worn O-rings with new ones, ensuring a proper fit to prevent leakage and ensure a tight seal.

Reassembling the Bomber CR Coil Rear Shock

Reinstalling the Damper Cartridge

  1. Lubricate the new seals with a small amount of suspension grease.
  2. Insert the damper cartridge back into the shock body, making sure it slides in smoothly without any resistance.
  3. Tighten the damper retaining nut to the manufacturer’s recommended torque specification (usually 10-12 Nm) using a torque wrench [paid link].

Reinstalling the Coil Spring

  1. Slide the coil spring back onto the shock body, ensuring it sits properly.
  2. Reinstall the spring retainer and tighten it securely.
  3. Set the preload adjuster back to the appropriate setting for your weight and riding style.

Refilling the Shock with Oil

  1. Pour the recommended suspension oil into the shock body, ensuring it is filled to the correct level.
  2. Reinstall the air valve cover and ensure it is sealed properly.

Final Adjustments

Setting Rebound and Compression

  1. Before reinstalling the shock on the bike, adjust the rebound and compression settings to your preference. Start with mid-range settings and adjust based on your riding style.
  2. Use the shock pump to ensure the correct air pressure is set. Marzocchi recommends checking your rider weight to get the ideal setup.

Torqueing Bolts

Reinstall the shock onto the bike and torque the mounting bolts to the manufacturer’s specified torque (typically around 30 Nm for most shock bolts). This ensures the shock is securely mounted and prevents any rattling or damage from loose bolts.

Troubleshooting Common Set-Up Issues

No Rebound or Slow Rebound

If you find that the rebound is either non-existent or very slow, this may indicate a problem with the damper or insufficient oil. It’s important to verify that the oil has been correctly replaced and that the damper’s internals are free of blockages or excessive wear.

Leaking Oil or Air

If your shock is leaking oil or air, it could be due to damaged seals or incorrect reassembly. Ensure all seals are in good condition and have been properly lubricated. If the problem persists, check the damper cartridge for internal damage.

Lack of Comfort or Performance

If the shock feels overly stiff or doesn’t provide the comfort or performance you expect, check the spring rate and ensure it matches your weight and riding style. Also, verify that the damping settings are correct for your needs.

Customization and Optimization

Spring Rate Adjustment

For riders looking to fine-tune their shock performance, adjusting the coil spring rate is an excellent way to improve comfort and handling. If you are experiencing bottoming out or excessive stiffness, consider changing the spring to a different rate.

Rebound and Compression Settings

Experiment with the rebound and compression settings to optimize the shock for various terrains. A higher compression setting can provide more stability for aggressive riding, while softer settings allow for better comfort on rough trails.

Conclusion

By following this comprehensive guide, you can service your Bomber CR Coil rear shock without needing professional assistance. Regular maintenance, proper oil changes, and internal checks will ensure your suspension operates at peak [paid link] performance. Always remember to inspect your shock’s components after each ride, especially in demanding conditions, to avoid any major issues down the road.