The Jade Coil [paid link] rear shock from DVO is a high-performance suspension component designed for mountain bikes, delivering excellent control and comfort on rough terrain. Over time, the oil inside the shock can degrade, leading to reduced performance. Performing an oil change is essential to maintain optimal function and extend the lifespan of your Jade Coil [paid link] rear shock. This guide provides a step-by-step breakdown of how to properly change the oil in your Jade Coil rear shock.

Tools Required

• 8mm Allen wrench [paid link]
• 5mm Allen wrench [paid link]
• 10mm socket wrench
• Shock pump
• Clean rag
• 15mm open-end wrench
• Torque wrench [paid link]
• DVO Jade Coil oil change kit (or recommended shock oil)
• Small containers for draining oil
• Shock oil syringe
• Silicone grease
• Gloves

Preparing for the Oil Change

Before starting the oil change process, it’s important to ensure that you have a clean workspace and all the necessary tools. Wear gloves to avoid contamination from oils and dirt. Additionally, ensure that the shock is removed from the bike for easy access to all parts.

1. Remove the Rear Shock from the Bike
   • Use an 8mm Allen wrench to remove the shock from the frame. Support the shock as you unscrew the bolts to avoid damage. Be sure to keep the mounting hardware in a safe place.
2. Secure the Shock in a Stable Position
   • Place the shock on a clean surface where you can easily access all parts. Use a rag to wipe off any dirt or debris around the shock’s body and eyelets.

Disassembling the Shock

Now that the shock is removed and cleaned, it’s time to begin the disassembly process.

1. Remove the Shock Reservoir Cap
   • Use the 10mm socket wrench to remove the reservoir cap from the shock. This step will expose the internal components where the oil is contained. Be careful to avoid damaging the threads.
2. Take Out the Shock Spring
   • Use the 15mm open-end wrench to unscrew the spring preload collar. Once loose, you can remove the shock spring from the shock body. Be sure to keep the spring components in order for reassembly later.
3. Disengage the Internal Components
   • After removing the spring, use the 5mm Allen wrench to unscrew the screws securing the shock’s internal components. Carefully pull the damper and piston assembly out from the shock body. At this point, the oil will begin to drain from the shock.

Draining the Old Oil

Draining the old oil is essential for ensuring that no contaminants are left inside the shock that could impact its performance.

1. Drain the Oil
   • Allow the oil to drain completely into a clean container. You may need to move the damper back and forth to ensure all the oil is drained. If necessary, use a rag to wipe out any remaining oil inside the shock body.
2. Clean the Internal Parts
   • While the shock is draining, take the time to clean the damper, piston, and shock body with a clean rag. Remove any dirt or old grease from the internal parts, making sure not to damage the seals.

Reassembling the Shock

Once the old oil is fully drained and the components are cleaned, it’s time to reassemble the shock with fresh oil.

1. Apply New Oil to the Shock
   • Fill the shock with the recommended amount of fresh shock oil. You can use a syringe for precise control when adding the oil. Make sure to use the oil recommended by DVO to ensure proper performance. Fill the shock body to the appropriate level, as specified in the user manual.
2. Lubricate the Internal Parts
   • Before reassembling, apply a thin layer of silicone grease to the seals and any moving parts to ensure smooth operation. This will help maintain the shock’s performance and prevent premature wear.
3. Reassemble the Shock Components
   • Carefully insert the damper and piston assembly back into the shock body. Ensure that everything aligns properly before securing the internal components with the screws. Tighten them to the specified torque using a torque wrench [paid link] to avoid over-tightening.
4. Reinstall the Shock Spring
   • Place the shock spring back into position and secure it by tightening the preload collar with the 15mm open-end wrench. Make sure the spring is properly seated to prevent any rattling or unwanted movement.

Testing the Shock

After reassembling the shock, it’s important to test it to ensure that everything is working properly.

1. Check for Leaks
   • Use the shock pump to pressurize the shock and check for any signs of leaking oil. If you notice any leaks, disassemble the shock again and ensure all seals are properly installed and lubricated.
2. Adjust Air Pressure
   • Set the recommended air pressure using the shock pump. Refer to the DVO Jade Coil user manual for the correct settings based on your weight and riding style.
3. Test the Suspension
   • With the shock reinstalled on the bike, perform a quick test by pressing down on the saddle and cycling through the suspension range. Check the rebound and compression settings to ensure the shock is responding correctly.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If you encounter issues during the oil change process, the following troubleshooting tips may help resolve them:

• Oil Leaks: If oil is leaking from the shock reservoir, ensure that the reservoir cap is tightly secured and that the O-rings are intact. Replace any damaged seals.
• Sticky Suspension: If the suspension feels sticky or doesn’t compress smoothly, the oil might not be at the correct level. Double-check the oil amount and ensure all internal components are properly lubricated.
• Lack of Rebound or Compression: If the rebound or compression settings are unresponsive, check that the damper components are properly reinstalled and that no oil has leaked from the shock.

Customization and Optimization

To get the best performance out of your Jade Coil rear shock, consider the following customizations:

1. Adjusting Rebound and Compression Dials
   • Fine-tune the rebound and compression settings based on your riding style and terrain. Increasing compression will firm up the shock for aggressive riding, while reducing rebound can help with faster descents.
2. Changing the Oil Type
   • Experiment with different shock oils to adjust the shock’s responsiveness. A thicker oil will result in a firmer ride, while a thinner oil will offer a more plush feel.
3. Spring Tuning
   • If you feel that the shock is too stiff or too soft, consider changing the spring rate. DVO offers a variety of spring options to help fine-tune the ride.

Conclusion

Performing an oil change on your DVO Jade Coil rear shock is a straightforward process that can significantly improve your bike’s performance. By following this guide, you ensure that your shock is well-maintained and ready for optimal performance on the trail. Regular oil changes, combined with proper care and adjustments, will keep your suspension system performing like new for years to come.