The Mara Inline Trunnion [paid link] rear shock by Manitou is known for its performance and durability, but like any other piece of mountain bike equipment, it requires regular maintenance to keep it functioning optimally. While taking your bike to a mechanic is always an option, servicing the Mara Inline Trunnion [paid link] rear shock yourself can save you time and money. This guide will walk you through the entire process, from installation to troubleshooting, helping you get the most out of your suspension system.
Tools Required
Before starting the service process, make sure you have the following tools at hand:
- 8mm Allen wrench [paid link]
- 5mm Allen wrench [paid link]
- Shock pump
- Clean rags
- 10mm socket wrench
- Torque wrench [paid link]
- Suspension fluid (Manitou recommended)
- Seal grease
- Piston tool (for internal components)
- T15 and T30 Torx wrenches
Preparing the Shock for Service
Before diving into the disassembly and maintenance process, it is crucial to ensure that your bike is ready. Follow these steps to prepare:
- Remove the Shock from the Bike: Use your 8mm Allen wrench to remove the shock from the frame. Make sure you mark the orientation of the shock in relation to the frame to avoid reinstallation errors.
- Place the Shock on a Clean Surface: Ensure that your work area is clean and free of debris. Lay down a clean rag or towel to protect the shock from scratches during the service process.
Disassembling the Mara Inline Trunnion Rear Shock
Disassembling your Mara Inline [paid link] Trunnion rear shock allows you to perform maintenance on the internal components and inspect for wear and damage.
- Remove the Air Valve Cap: Using your T15 Torx wrench [paid link], remove the air valve cap. This step ensures you can release any remaining pressure inside the shock.
- Release Air Pressure: Connect the shock pump to the valve and slowly release any residual air pressure. This is essential for safe disassembly and to avoid damage to internal components.
- Remove the Trunnion Mounting Bolts: Use your 5mm Allen wrench to remove the mounting bolts at both ends of the shock. Keep these bolts in a safe place as they will be reinstalled after servicing.
- Unscrew the End Cap: Use the 10mm socket wrench to remove the end cap. This is a crucial step in accessing the internal components of the shock. Make sure to hold the shock securely as you perform this step to prevent damage.
- Extract the Internal Components: Once the end cap is removed, use your piston tool to carefully remove the internal damper and air spring assembly from the shock body. Take note of the order of components for easier reassembly later.
Cleaning and Inspection
After disassembling the Mara Inline [paid link] Trunnion rear shock, the next step is to clean and inspect the internal components for any signs of damage or wear.
- Clean All Parts: Using a clean rag, wipe down all parts, including the damper, piston, and shock body. Use suspension-specific fluid to clean any stubborn dirt or grease buildup. Be gentle when cleaning to avoid damaging any sensitive components.
- Inspect for Wear or Damage: Thoroughly check the seals, o-rings, and other internal parts for any visible damage. If you notice significant wear or damage, it may be time to replace these components. Manitou recommends replacing seals every 100 hours of riding.
- Lubricate Seals: Apply a small amount of seal grease to the seals to ensure smooth movement when the shock is reassembled. Avoid over-lubricating, as excess grease can attract dirt and grime.
Reassembling the Mara Inline Trunnion Rear Shock
Once everything is cleaned and inspected, it’s time to reassemble the shock.
- Reinstall the Internal Components: Carefully slide the damper and air spring assembly back into the shock body. Ensure that the components are aligned correctly and sit flush inside the shock casing.
- Reattach the End Cap: Use your 10mm socket wrench to reattach the end cap, securing it tightly. Be careful not to over-tighten, as this could cause damage to the shock body.
- Reinstall the Trunnion Mounting Bolts: Position the shock back into its original orientation and secure it with the trunnion mounting bolts using a 5mm Allen wrench. Tighten them to the manufacturer’s recommended torque specifications.
- Reinstall the Air Valve Cap: Finally, reattach the air valve cap and ensure it is tightened securely.
Setting the Air Pressure and Testing
After reassembling the Mara Inline Trunnion rear shock, you’ll need to adjust the air pressure and test the shock to ensure everything is functioning properly.
- Set the Air Pressure: Use your shock pump to set the air pressure according to your rider weight and riding style. Manitou recommends starting with around 25% of your total sag for aggressive riders and adjusting as necessary.
- Test the Shock: Push down on the rear of the bike to compress the shock. Check for smooth travel and responsiveness. If you notice any binding or unusual resistance, disassemble the shock again and double-check the internal components for proper reassembly.
- Check for Leaks: After the shock is fully reassembled and the air pressure is set, inspect the shock for any air leaks around the seals and air valve. If you notice any leaks, it may indicate a worn seal that needs replacing.
Troubleshooting Common Set-Up Issues
While servicing your Mara Inline Trunnion rear shock, it’s essential to be aware of common issues and how to address them.
- Uneven Sag or Feel: If the shock feels too soft or too firm, you may need to adjust the air pressure. Experiment with different air pressure settings to find the optimal feel for your riding style.
- Reduced Travel or Stiffness: This could indicate that the damper or air spring assembly is not functioning correctly. Check for damaged or worn parts and replace them if necessary.
- Leakage: If you notice air leaking from the shock, inspect the seals for wear. Replacing the seals can often resolve this issue.
Customizing Your Mara Inline Trunnion Rear Shock for Better Performance
To optimize the performance of your Mara Inline Trunnion rear shock, consider customizing certain aspects based on your specific needs:
- Adjusting the Compression and Rebound Settings: The Mara Inline Trunnion rear shock features adjustable compression and rebound settings. Fine-tune these adjustments to suit your riding style and terrain. Experiment with different settings to find the right balance between comfort and control.
- Upgrading Internal Components: If you’re looking for a smoother ride or more responsive damping, consider upgrading the internal components of your Mara Inline Trunnion rear shock. Manitou offers several aftermarket parts that can enhance the performance of your shock.
Comparing the Mara Inline Trunnion with Similar Models
The Mara Inline Trunnion rear shock is a solid choice for riders looking for a reliable and customizable suspension system. However, it’s worth considering how it stacks up against other similar models.
- Mara Inline vs. Manitou Mattoc: While the Mara Inline is focused on performance and adjustability, the Mattoc offers more advanced features, such as higher air volume for more plush travel. However, the Mara Inline is often considered more cost-effective while still providing high performance.
- Mara Inline vs. Fox Float DPX2: Both the Mara Inline and Fox Float DPX2 offer adjustable compression and rebound settings. However, the Fox Float DPX2 is generally seen as more premium, with higher overall performance, while the Mara Inline offers a more budget-friendly option without sacrificing too much in terms of performance.
Conclusion
Servicing your Manitou Mara Inline Trunnion rear shock doesn’t have to be a daunting task. With the right tools, patience, and attention to detail, you can perform a thorough service yourself, ensuring that your shock continues to perform at its best. Regular maintenance is key to extending the life of your shock, and by following these detailed steps, you can avoid unnecessary trips to the mechanic while saving both time and money.