How to Service Your Float X Performance Elite Rear Shock Without a Mechanic

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Maintaining your Float X Performance Elite rear shock is essential to ensure the optimal performance and longevity of your mountain bike. Regular servicing can prevent damage, enhance ride quality, and keep your suspension system working smoothly. This guide will take you through the process of servicing your Float X Performance Elite rear shock without the need for a mechanic.

Tools Required

  • Float X Performance Elite rear shock
  • Fox Shock pump
  • 8mm, 5mm, and 3mm Allen wrenches [paid link]
  • 10mm and 12mm spanners
  • T25 Torx driver
  • Torque wrench [paid link]
  • Shock oil (Fox recommended)
  • Rags for cleaning
  • Safety gloves
  • Suspension grease
  • Needle and syringe for oil filling

Step 1: Remove the Shock from the Bike

The first step in servicing your Float X Performance Elite rear shock is removing it from the bike. This will allow you to work on the shock safely and without interference.

  • Use the appropriate tools (usually 5mm or 8mm Allen wrenches [paid link]) to remove the bolts securing the shock to the frame.
  • Carefully slide the shock out of its mounting position, being cautious not to damage any other bike components.

Step 2: Disassemble the Shock

Once the shock is off the bike, you can begin disassembling it. This will allow you to inspect its internal components and clean them thoroughly.

  • First, remove the air valve cap using a 5mm Allen wrench [paid link] to expose the valve core.
  • Next, carefully remove the air can from the shock body. This step can vary depending on whether your shock has a positive or negative air chamber.
  • Use a 3mm Allen wrench [paid link] to remove any components such as the rebound adjuster, lockout adjuster, or volume spacers.
  • Keep track of all the small parts and seals as they may need replacement during reassembly.

Step 3: Inspect and Clean the Shock

Before refilling or servicing the internal components, take time to inspect and clean the shock.

  • Inspect the shock shaft for any signs of damage, such as deep scratches or nicks. This could affect the shock’s performance and should be addressed.
  • Clean the shock components using a clean rag and suspension-specific cleaner. Avoid using harsh chemicals that could damage the seals.
  • Check the seals for wear. If you notice any cracks, tears, or excessive wear, replace the seals. Fox recommends replacing seals every 50 hours of use.

Step 4: Refill with Oil

Next, you’ll need to refill the shock with the correct oil to restore its damping function. This is a critical step in maintaining the shock’s performance.

  • Using a syringe or needle, carefully fill the shock with the recommended Fox shock oil, ensuring you use the right grade for the specific model.
  • Pay close attention to the oil levels indicated by the shock’s specifications. Overfilling or underfilling can affect its performance, leading to poor rebound control or harsh ride quality.
  • Make sure the air can is seated properly on the shock body before tightening any fasteners.

Step 5: Reassemble the Shock

After filling the shock with oil, it’s time to reassemble the shock and prepare it for reinstallation.

  • Carefully replace all components, starting with the volume spacers and rebound adjusters.
  • Ensure each piece is tightened to the manufacturer’s recommended torque specifications. This step is critical to prevent any damage or performance issues.
  • Reinstall the air valve and check that it’s securely in place.

Step 6: Reinstall the Shock on the Bike

With the shock now fully serviced and reassembled, it’s time to reinstall it back onto your bike.

  • Slide the shock back into the bike’s shock mount.
  • Reattach the mounting bolts using your 5mm or 8mm Allen wrenches. Ensure that the bolts are properly torqued to the manufacturer’s specifications.
  • Double-check that all fasteners are tight and that the shock is securely mounted before proceeding.

Step 7: Adjust the Air Pressure

Before you go for a ride, adjust the air pressure to your desired setting. This is crucial for ensuring the proper shock performance and suspension feel.

  • Use a Fox shock pump to add air to the positive and negative air chambers.
  • For the Float X Performance Elite, check your rider weight and recommended air pressures to find the correct setting. Typically, the positive chamber will need a higher pressure than the negative chamber.
  • Set the air pressure according to your riding style and preference, whether you’re aiming for a plush feel or a firmer setup for aggressive riding.

Step 8: Perform a Final Check

After installation and adjustments, perform a final check to ensure everything is functioning correctly.

  • Check the rebound and compression settings by adjusting the respective dials on the shock. Ensure the settings correspond to your riding style, whether you prefer a more responsive or more controlled shock.
  • Cycle the suspension a few times by compressing and releasing the shock to ensure the damping is working smoothly.
  • Inspect the shock for any leaks, noises, or unusual movement during the test.

Troubleshooting Common Set-up Issues

While servicing your Float X Performance Elite rear shock, you might encounter a few common set-up issues. Here’s how to address them:

  • Low Rebound or Compression Performance: If the shock feels slow or sluggish during rebound or compression, check the oil levels. Low oil levels may cause inadequate damping. Ensure you refill with the correct Fox oil.
  • Excessive Sag or Bottom-Out: If the shock sags too much or bottoms out on hard hits, consider adjusting the air pressure. Increasing the air pressure or adding volume spacers can prevent excessive sag.
  • Noise or Leaks: If you hear unusual noises or experience air leaks, check the seals and air valve. Leaking air can result from worn or damaged seals, and you may need to replace them during your service.

Customization and Optimization for Better Performance

To get the most out of your Float X Performance Elite rear shock, you can customize and optimize its performance by adjusting settings based on your riding preferences.

  • Volume Spacers: Adjust the volume spacers to change the shock’s progression. Adding spacers will make the shock feel more progressive, ideal for aggressive riders, while removing spacers will create a more linear feel for smoother trails.
  • Compression Settings: Fine-tune the compression settings to achieve a balance between comfort and control. Lower compression will give a softer feel, while increasing compression adds more control and stability on rough terrain.
  • Rebound Adjustment: Fine-tune the rebound to ensure the shock returns smoothly after compression. A slower rebound is ideal for rough terrain, while a quicker rebound works better for smoother conditions.

Compatibility with Other Drivetrain Components

The Float X Performance Elite rear shock is compatible with most modern mountain bike frames, but it’s essential to consider the shock’s dimensions and mounting type when choosing compatible components.

  • Mounting Hardware: Ensure that the shock’s mounting hardware matches the frame’s requirements. Different frame designs may require different shock eyelet sizes, so always double-check your frame specifications.
  • Suspension Linkage Compatibility: Verify that your bike’s suspension linkage is compatible with the Float X Performance Elite’s travel and damping characteristics. Some bikes may require an alternative shock model for the best suspension performance.