Step-by-Step Rear Shock Oil Change for Deluxe Select

Posted on
in Uncategorized

Maintaining your RockShox Deluxe Select [paid link] rear shock is essential for preserving its performance, longevity, and smooth operation. One of the key maintenance tasks for this shock is performing an oil change. Over time, the oil inside the shock can degrade, affecting damping performance and overall ride quality. In this step-by-step guide, we’ll walk you through the process of changing the oil in your Deluxe Select [paid link] rear shock, covering everything from tools required to troubleshooting and optimization tips.

Tools Required

  • 5mm Allen wrench [paid link]
  • 8mm Allen wrench [paid link]
  • Torque wrench [paid link] (with appropriate settings)
  • Shock pump
  • Clean rag or paper towels
  • RockShox 15wt or 30wt oil (check for compatibility)
  • Latex gloves (optional)
  • A work stand (optional but recommended)
  • Oil syringe or pump
  • Small container for draining old oil

Preparation

Before starting the oil change process, it’s important to prepare your workspace and gather all necessary tools. Make sure your rear shock is off the bike and clean to avoid any contamination during the oil change. You’ll also want to perform the task in a well-lit, clean environment to ensure no debris or dirt enters the shock during the maintenance.

Removing the Shock from the Bike

  1. Begin by placing the bike securely on a work stand. If you don’t have a stand, you can lean it against a stable surface.
  2. Use a 5mm Allen wrench to remove the mounting bolts securing the shock to the frame. Make sure to keep track of the washers and bolts, as they will need to be reinstalled.
  3. Once the shock is free, carefully remove it from the bike.

Draining the Old Oil

  1. With the shock removed, position it over a clean container to catch any oil that drains out.
  2. Locate the air valve and remove the Schrader valve cap.
  3. Using a shock pump, depress the valve to release all the air pressure from the shock. This is important to avoid any pressure build-up when disassembling the shock.
  4. Once the air is released, locate the oil fill screw and use an 8mm Allen wrench to remove it. Allow the oil to drain completely. Be patient, as it may take a few minutes for all the oil to fully drain out of the shock.

Disassembling the Shock

  1. After draining the oil, you need to remove the damper assembly. To do this, use a 5mm Allen wrench to unscrew the mounting bolts securing the damper to the shock body.
  2. Carefully slide the damper out of the shock body. Be mindful not to damage the seals during this step.
  3. With the damper removed, you can inspect it for wear or damage. If there are signs of excessive wear, it may be time to replace certain internal components.

Cleaning the Shock Components

  1. Use a clean rag or paper towels to wipe down the internal and external parts of the shock. Pay close attention to the seal area, as dirt or debris here can cause future performance issues.
  2. Inspect the shock body and damper for any oil residue or debris that may have collected inside.
  3. After cleaning, set the parts aside on a clean surface and prepare for reassembly.

Adding New Oil

  1. Using the appropriate oil (usually 15wt or 30wt depending on your specific model and preference), fill the damper and shock body with the new oil. Make sure to follow the oil capacity specified in the user manual.
  2. You can use an oil syringe or pump to accurately fill the shock with the required amount of oil.
  3. Once the oil has been added, reassemble the damper back into the shock body, ensuring it’s seated correctly. Tighten the bolts to the recommended torque values using a torque wrench [paid link].

Reassembling the Shock

  1. Carefully slide the damper back into the shock body. Make sure that the seals are aligned properly to avoid any leakage of oil.
  2. Reinstall the oil fill screw and tighten it securely with an 8mm Allen wrench.
  3. Before reinstalling the shock on the bike, check the oil level. If necessary, add more oil to achieve the correct fill level.

Reinstalling the Shock on the Bike

  1. Once the shock is fully reassembled, carefully reinstall it back onto the bike.
  2. Reattach the mounting bolts using a 5mm Allen wrench, ensuring that they are tightened to the manufacturer’s recommended torque specifications.
  3. Check that the shock is properly aligned and secure before moving on to the next step.

Recharging the Shock with Air

  1. Using a shock pump, inflate the shock to the recommended air pressure. This will depend on your weight and riding style, so refer to the manufacturer’s guidelines for the correct pressure setting.
  2. Double-check that the shock feels firm and responsive. If the air pressure is too low or too high, adjust accordingly.

Final Checks and Testing

  1. After the shock has been reinstalled and the air pressure adjusted, perform a quick test by pressing down on the bike to simulate riding conditions. The shock should compress and rebound smoothly without any stuttering or unusual noises.
  2. If the shock feels too soft or too firm, adjust the air pressure again and check the oil level.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Issue 1: No Rebound or Poor Rebound

  • Cause: This could be caused by low oil levels, damaged seals, or internal damper issues.
  • Solution: Check the oil level and seals. If everything appears normal but the issue persists, it may be necessary to replace the damper or other internal components.

Issue 2: Shock Doesn’t Hold Air

  • Cause: Air leakage could be due to worn seals or improperly installed components.
  • Solution: Inspect the shock’s seals, including the Schrader valve. If necessary, replace the seals and reassemble the shock.

Issue 3: Shock Feels Too Soft

  • Cause: Incorrect air pressure or insufficient oil.
  • Solution: Double-check the oil level and air pressure. If these are set correctly and the problem persists, it may be necessary to replace the internal damper components.

Customization and Optimization

To achieve the best performance from your Deluxe Select rear shock, you can experiment with different oil viscosities and air pressures. For aggressive riders or those who frequently ride on rough trails, opting for a higher viscosity oil (e.g., 30wt) may provide more damping control. Conversely, a lower viscosity oil (e.g., 15wt) can offer a more responsive and smoother ride for lighter riders or those riding smoother trails.

Adjusting the air pressure based on your riding style and weight is also key to optimizing performance. Lighter riders should start with lower air pressure, while heavier riders may require higher pressures for optimal support and control.

Comparison with Similar Models

The RockShox Deluxe Select shares similar maintenance procedures with other shocks in the RockShox line, such as the Monarch or the Super Deluxe models. However, each model may have different oil capacities, oil viscosities, and internal configurations, which means that it’s important to refer to the specific user manual for your model to ensure proper maintenance.

Compared to other brands, RockShox rear shocks are known for their easy-to-service design and consistent performance. The Deluxe Select offers a balance of performance and ease of maintenance, making it a popular choice among riders who value reliable shock performance on a wide range of trails.