The Fox 32 Float Factory Step-Cast fork is a lightweight, performance-driven suspension fork designed primarily for cross-country racing and aggressive trail riding. With its Step-Cast chassis and Kashima-coated stanchions, it offers a blend of stiffness, weight savings, and advanced damping control. This guide provides a comprehensive approach to servicing, tuning, and optimizing your 32 Float Factory Step-Cast fork, ensuring peak performance and longevity.
Tools Required
- 26mm socket (for top cap removal)
- 10mm socket (for air shaft assembly)
- Torque wrench [paid link] (in Nm range)
- Fox Float fluid (5wt Teflon infused)
- Fox 20wt Gold oil
- Suspension grease (silicone-based)
- Clean workspace and lint-free cloths
- Oil syringe or graduated cylinder
- Allen key set
- Pick or dental tool (for seal removal)
- Lower leg removal tool (optional, but helpful)
Installation Guidelines
Installing the 32 Float Factory Step-Cast requires precision and care to avoid damaging the internals. Begin by ensuring the steerer tube is correctly cut and deburred. Mount the fork onto the bike’s head tube, aligning with the headset spacers and stem. Use a torque wrench [paid link] to secure the top cap and stem bolts to manufacturer-specified settings.
Attach the front brake caliper to the post-mount using the correct hardware, ensuring the rotor is centered between the caliper pads. If needed, use caliper adapters suited for the rotor size. Insert the front wheel and engage the thru-axle, tightening it to spec.
Check axle alignment and preload adjustment. Install the remote lockout lever if included, routing the cable cleanly along the handlebar and fork crown.
Air Spring Setup and Adjustment
The 32 Float Factory Step-Cast uses the FLOAT EVOL air spring, which is highly tunable. Begin by setting the rider’s weight in PSI (typically matching 1 PSI per lb of rider weight as a starting point). Use a suspension pump to inflate the air chamber.
Cycle the fork through 30% of its travel to equalize the positive and negative chambers. Adjust the rebound knob (red dial at the bottom of the right fork leg) to suit rider preference—faster rebound for aggressive terrain, slower for smooth trail control.
For further tuning, volume spacers can be added or removed inside the air chamber. Adding spacers increases bottom-out resistance, while removing them makes the fork feel more linear. Always consult the Fox tuning guide to avoid exceeding the spacer limits.
Damper Tuning and Compression Settings
This model features the FIT4 damper, offering Open, Medium, and Firm modes. The blue lever atop the right leg allows quick compression adjustment.
- Open Mode: Ideal for descending or rough trails.
- Medium Mode: Balances efficiency with bump compliance.
- Firm Mode: Best for smooth climbs or sprinting.
The Open mode includes a low-speed compression adjustment dial, allowing finer control over fork responsiveness. Turn clockwise to increase firmness. Use this to reduce brake dive or improve stability.
Ensure all compression settings are dialed in while off the bike and use trail testing to finalize tuning.
Routine Maintenance Schedule
Maintaining the 32 Float Factory Step-Cast is critical for optimal performance. Fox recommends the following service intervals:
- Every 30 hours: Lower leg service—includes replacing bath oil and cleaning foam rings and seals.
- Every 100 hours or annually: Full damper and air spring overhaul—requires complete teardown and rebuild.
Wipe down stanchions after every ride to prevent dirt ingress. Inspect seals for weeping or dirt buildup regularly.
Lower Leg Service Procedure
Perform this service in a clean environment:
- Release air pressure completely from the fork.
- Remove rebound adjuster knob and bottom nuts.
- Tap the shaft ends gently with a soft mallet to disengage them from the lower legs.
- Slide off the lower legs slowly, draining old bath oil into a container.
- Clean internals with isopropyl alcohol.
- Replace foam rings, dust wipers, and reapply fresh Fox 20wt Gold oil (40cc per leg).
- Reinstall lowers and torque bottom nuts to spec.
- Reattach rebound knob and reinflate to desired PSI.
Troubleshooting Common Set-Up Issues
Excessive fork dive: Increase air pressure or add volume spacers. Also, check low-speed compression settings.
Harsh initial stroke: Check for dry or dirty seals. Perform a lower leg service and apply suspension grease liberally under wipers.
Inconsistent rebound behavior: Damper fluid may be contaminated or low. Full damper service is recommended.
Unresponsive lockout: Inspect remote or lever cable routing for kinks. If using FIT4 remote, bleed the lockout system if needed.
Customizing for Performance
To tailor the fork’s performance:
- Use the Fox volume spacer chart to match air spring progression to rider preference and terrain.
- Adjust damper oil viscosity (within Fox specifications) for finer rebound control.
- Pair with high-end bearings in the headset to minimize torsional resistance.
- Use Kashima cleaner to maintain coating integrity on stanchions.
Experimenting within Fox’s tuning limits enables competitive-level performance.
Compatibility Considerations
The 32 Float Factory Step-Cast is designed for 100mm or 120mm travel applications and fits standard 29″ wheels. Its Step-Cast design narrows the width for lightweight racing setups.
Ensure compatibility with:
- Boost hub spacing (110mm)
- Post-mount brake calipers (up to 180mm rotors without adapters)
- Tapered head tubes (1 1/8″ to 1.5″)
- Fox remote lockout systems (if equipped)
Do not attempt to mix components from different fork models, especially damper or air spring parts, unless explicitly listed by Fox as interchangeable.
Comparison with Similar Forks
Compared to the Fox 34 or 36, the 32 Step-Cast is notably lighter and more efficient for XC racing. It sacrifices some stiffness and travel capacity but excels in speed and agility.
When compared to RockShox SID Ultimate, the 32 Step-Cast offers:
- Smoother Kashima coating vs. RockShox’s Fast Black.
- FIT4’s distinct 3-position compression vs. SID’s Charger Race Day damper.
- Slightly stiffer chassis under aggressive braking.
Choose the 32 Step-Cast if your priority is weight savings and elite-level XC race performance.
FAQs
How often should I service my Fox 32 Step-Cast fork?
Service every 30 hours for lower legs, and every 100 hours or annually for full internal servicing.
What air pressure should I run in the 32 Step-Cast?
Start with 1 PSI per lb of body weight. Fine-tune based on sag measurement and ride feel.
Can I change travel on this fork?
Yes, travel can be adjusted by replacing the air shaft assembly, but this requires internal modification and proper tools.
Why does my fork feel sticky at the top of the travel?
Sticky initial movement is often due to dry seals or dirty foam rings. A lower leg service typically resolves this.
Can I use this fork with a 27.5” wheel?
It is designed for 29″ wheels, though some frames may accept it with a 27.5″+ tire setup. Always confirm clearance.
Is the FIT4 damper serviceable at home?
Yes, but it requires specific tools and suspension knowledge. Fox recommends having it serviced by an authorized technician.
Conclusion
Proper setup, consistent maintenance, and thoughtful customization are key to maximizing the performance of your Fox 32 Float Factory Step-Cast fork. Whether you’re preparing for race day or chasing trail efficiency, understanding your fork’s mechanics empowers you to ride faster, smoother, and more confidently.