How to Service Your Float DPS Factory Rear Shock Without a Mechanic

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The Float DPS Factory [paid link] rear shock by Fox is a high-performance suspension component designed to provide maximum comfort and control on your road bike. Proper maintenance is essential to ensure optimal performance and longevity. Servicing your rear shock at home can save you time and money, but it requires the right tools and a bit of mechanical know-how. This guide will take you through the steps to service your Float DPS Factory [paid link] rear shock without the need for a mechanic.

Tools Required

  • 5mm and 8mm Allen wrenches [paid link]
  • Torque wrench [paid link]
  • Fox Float fluid
  • Suspension-specific grease
  • Shock pump
  • Cleaning supplies (rags and degreaser)
  • Shock oil (Fox Float fluid recommended)
  • Sealant (Fox Float fluid or equivalent)
  • Snap ring pliers
  • 10mm wrench
  • Oil syringe (for servicing damper)

Understanding Your Float DPS Factory Rear Shock

Before diving into the maintenance steps, it is important to understand the key features of the Float DPS Factory rear shock. The DPS shock is designed to provide a high level of adjustability with its three-position lever: Open, Medium, and Firm. The shock uses a dual-piston system and offers fine-tuning through rebound and compression adjustments, allowing you to customize your ride.

Step 1: Preparation and Removal

  1. Remove the shock from your bike: First, remove the rear shock from your bike frame. To do this, use your 5mm Allen wrench [paid link] to remove the bolts securing the shock. Be careful not to damage the bolts, and keep them in a safe place for reassembly.
  2. Clean the shock: Use a rag and degreaser to clean the shock body. Make sure there is no dirt or debris around the seals and mounting points to prevent contamination during the servicing process.

Step 2: Disassemble the Shock

  1. Remove the air sleeve: Using a 10mm wrench, remove the air canister from the shock body. This requires releasing the air pressure using a shock pump. Once the air is fully relieved, unscrew the air sleeve, which will expose the shock’s internal parts.
  2. Inspect the shock internals: Once the air sleeve is off, you will have access to the damper and air piston. Carefully inspect these parts for any signs of wear, damage, or contamination.

Step 3: Clean the Shock Internals

  1. Clean the damper and air piston: Using a clean rag, wipe down the damper and air piston. Be gentle during this process to avoid damaging the internal parts. Ensure that all dirt, grease, or old oil is removed.
  2. Inspect the seals: Check the seals for any signs of wear or damage. If you notice any cuts, tears, or cracks, it’s best to replace the seals. Fox provides seal kits for this purpose.

Step 4: Rebuild the Shock

  1. Apply fresh suspension fluid: Using a syringe, apply Fox Float fluid to the damper. Be sure to follow the recommended fluid volumes specified by Fox for your specific shock model. This will help maintain the proper damping performance.
  2. Grease the air piston: Apply suspension-specific grease to the air piston to ensure smooth operation and to prevent air leakage. Be careful not to apply too much grease, as it can interfere with the shock’s performance.
  3. Install new seals (if necessary): If you replaced any seals, make sure to install them in the correct order and position. The seals should fit snugly without any gaps to ensure a proper seal and prevent air loss.

Step 5: Reassemble the Shock

  1. Reattach the air sleeve: Carefully slide the air sleeve back onto the shock body. Be sure it is aligned properly before tightening it back into place. Use a torque wrench [paid link] to ensure the correct torque specifications are met.
  2. Install the shock on the bike: Once the shock is fully reassembled, reinstall it on your bike. Tighten the mounting bolts to the manufacturer’s recommended torque settings.

Step 6: Set the Correct Air Pressure

  1. Check air pressure: Using a shock pump, check and adjust the air pressure to match your rider weight and riding style. Typically, Fox recommends starting with a pressure equal to 30% of your body weight in PSI, but this can vary based on personal preference and riding conditions.
  2. Fine-tune the pressure: After setting the initial air pressure, check the shock’s sag by sitting on the bike and observing how much the shock compresses. Adjust the air pressure as needed to achieve the desired sag.

Step 7: Adjust the Rebound and Compression

  1. Set rebound damping: The Float DPS Factory features a rebound adjustment dial. Set the rebound to your preference by turning the dial. For a smoother, faster rebound, set the dial to a higher setting. For slower, more controlled rebound, set it to a lower setting.
  2. Set compression damping: Adjust the compression settings on the three-position lever: Open, Medium, and Firm. Start by setting the lever to the Open position for maximum suspension travel and adjust it as needed for your riding style.

Step 8: Perform a Final Check and Test Ride

  1. Double-check all bolts: Before heading out on a ride, ensure all bolts are tightened to the correct torque specifications. Loose bolts can lead to poor performance or even damage to the shock.
  2. Test the shock: Take your bike for a test ride to ensure everything is functioning properly. Pay attention to the shock’s performance in different settings (Open, Medium, and Firm) and make any further adjustments as needed.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Air Leaks

If your shock loses air pressure over time, the issue could be due to damaged seals or improperly tightened components. Inspect the seals for any visible damage and replace them if necessary. Also, ensure the air sleeve is securely tightened during reassembly.

Poor Damping Performance

If the shock feels too harsh or too soft, check the air pressure and rebound settings. Incorrect air pressure or rebound adjustments can significantly affect the performance of the shock. If the issue persists, the damper oil may need to be replaced, or the shock could require a full rebuild.

Excessive Rebound

If your shock rebounds too quickly or bounces uncontrollably, adjust the rebound damping to a slower setting. If this does not solve the problem, the damper may need to be serviced or replaced.

Customization and Optimization

The Float DPS Factory rear shock offers a great deal of adjustability, allowing riders to fine-tune their suspension setup based on riding conditions and personal preference. Experiment with different compression and rebound settings to find the optimal balance between comfort and performance. Additionally, adjusting the air pressure to achieve the ideal sag can enhance ride quality and ensure the shock performs as intended.

Compatibility with Other Drivetrain Components

The Float DPS Factory shock is compatible with most modern road bike frames designed to accommodate rear shocks. However, always check the specifications of your frame to ensure proper fitment. The shock’s adjustability makes it suitable for various riding styles, from cross-country to trail, but its compatibility with other drivetrain components is mostly dependent on your bike’s suspension design.

By following these detailed steps, you can service your Fox Float DPS Factory rear shock at home and keep it performing at its best. Regular maintenance will not only extend the life of your shock but also improve your overall riding experience.