The Fox Float DPS Factory [paid link] rear shock is a high-performance component that requires regular maintenance to ensure optimal performance and longevity. One of the most important maintenance tasks for the Float DPS Factory [paid link] shock is an oil change. Over time, shock oil can degrade and lose its effectiveness, affecting shock performance. This guide provides detailed instructions on how to perform an oil change on the Float DPS Factory rear shock, ensuring your bike handles smoothly and performs at its best.

Tools Required

• 5mm and 8mm hex wrenches
• Torque wrench [paid link] (with proper torque settings)
• Oil drain pan
• Fox Float fluid (specific to your shock model)
• Clean rags or towels
• Soft brush for cleaning
• Teflon tape or thread sealant (optional)
• Shock pump (for recharging the air chamber)
• 10mm socket wrench
• Needle nose pliers (optional)
• Float DPS tool kit (if available)

Preparing the Rear Shock for Oil Change

Before starting the oil change process, it’s crucial to properly remove the shock from the bike and prepare the workspace to ensure a smooth process.

1. Remove the Shock from the Bike
   Begin by removing the rear shock from the frame. To do this, use a 5mm hex wrench to remove the bolts securing the shock to the frame. Keep these bolts and washers in a safe place for reinstallation.
2. Place the Shock in a Clean, Stable Workspace
   Set up a clean, stable work surface to handle the shock. This prevents any dirt or contaminants from entering the shock during the oil change process. It is advisable to place the shock in a soft towel to protect the surface from scratches.

Disassembling the Fox Float DPS Factory Shock

Once the shock is removed and prepared, proceed with disassembling it to access the internals and drain the old oil.

1. Remove the Air Can
   Using the 8mm hex wrench, remove the air can from the main shock body. Be cautious during this step as the air pressure may still be in the shock. Ensure that any residual air pressure has been released before fully removing the air can.
2. Drain the Old Oil
   Hold the shock over a drain pan, ensuring it’s positioned in a way that allows the oil to flow freely. Carefully remove the oil reservoir cap with the 10mm socket wrench. Let the oil drain out completely. Depending on how often the shock has been serviced, you may notice significant dirt or debris in the oil, which further emphasizes the need for regular maintenance.
3. Clean the Shock Internals
   Once the oil has drained, use a soft brush to gently clean the exposed internals of the shock. Remove any visible dirt or debris, being careful not to damage any delicate parts. Cleaning these parts thoroughly ensures that no contaminants will affect the new oil.

Changing the Oil in the Fox Float DPS Factory Shock

Now that the shock has been disassembled and cleaned, you can begin adding the new oil and reassembling the shock.

1. Add New Oil to the Reservoir
   Using Fox Float fluid that matches your shock model, carefully pour the appropriate amount of fluid into the reservoir. Follow the manufacturer’s specifications to ensure that you add the correct amount. Too little or too much oil can affect the shock’s performance.
2. Reassemble the Shock
   After the new oil has been added, reattach the oil reservoir cap and tighten it using the torque wrench [paid link], making sure to follow the recommended torque settings. It is crucial to ensure that the cap is tightened correctly to avoid any leaks during operation.
3. Reinstall the Air Can
   Before installing the air can, inspect the o-ring and replace it if it appears worn or damaged. After replacing the o-ring, carefully reinstall the air can and tighten it securely using the 8mm hex wrench.

Recharging the Shock

Once the oil has been replaced and the shock is reassembled, it’s time to recharge the shock’s air chamber to the appropriate pressure.

1. Use a Shock Pump to Recharge the Air Chamber
   Using a shock pump, inflate the shock to the recommended air pressure, as specified by Fox for your rider weight and riding style. This is an essential step, as the proper air pressure affects the shock’s performance and responsiveness.
2. Check for Leaks
   Once the shock is recharged, inspect it for any signs of oil or air leakage. If there are any leaks, recheck the oil reservoir cap, air can, and any seals that were disturbed during the process. Address any issues before proceeding to the next step.

Reinstalling the Shock on the Bike

After successfully changing the oil and recharging the air chamber, reinstall the shock onto the bike.

1. Attach the Shock to the Frame
   Place the shock back onto the bike’s rear suspension mounting points. Use the 5mm hex wrench to tighten the bolts securely, ensuring that the shock is properly aligned. Be careful not to overtighten the bolts, as this can cause damage to the frame or shock.
2. Double-Check the Tightness
   After securing the shock to the frame, double-check the tightness of all bolts. Use a torque wrench to ensure that the bolts are tightened to the proper torque specifications.

Troubleshooting Common Setup Issues

While changing the oil and reassembling the Float DPS Factory shock, there are a few common issues that might arise. Below are some tips to address these problems:

1. Shock Not Holding Air Pressure
   If the shock is not holding air pressure after servicing, check for any damaged seals, o-rings, or damaged components. Replace any worn parts, and reassemble the shock carefully.
2. Leakage from the Reservoir
   If you notice oil leaking from the reservoir, ensure that the cap is securely tightened and that the seal is intact. If the leakage continues, inspect the cap threads for damage and replace the cap if necessary.
3. Suspension Feel Not as Expected
   After reinstallation, if the suspension does not feel as responsive as expected, double-check the oil level and air pressure. Adjust these settings based on the rider’s preference and the terrain.

Customization and Optimization

Optimizing your Fox Float DPS Factory shock after an oil change can enhance your riding experience. Customization can include adjusting the rebound and compression settings based on your specific riding style.

1. Adjust Rebound and Compression Settings
   The rebound and compression settings allow you to fine-tune the shock for different riding conditions. Experiment with these settings to find the ideal setup for your preferred terrain. Make small adjustments, then test ride the bike to feel the differences.
2. Consider Air Pressure for Different Conditions
   Adjusting the air pressure for different types of riding can improve performance. Lower pressures may provide more plushness on rough terrain, while higher pressures can make the bike more responsive on smoother trails.

Conclusion

Regular oil changes for your Fox Float DPS Factory rear shock are essential to maintaining its performance and extending its lifespan. By following this step-by-step guide, you can ensure your shock operates at peak [paid link] efficiency, providing a smoother and more controlled ride. Make sure to follow all steps carefully and perform maintenance at the recommended intervals to keep your shock performing like new.