Maintaining your rear shock is essential for ensuring the longevity and performance of your Manitou McLeod [paid link] shock. Over time, the oil inside the shock can break down or become contaminated, leading to decreased damping performance. Performing an oil change will help restore the shock’s performance, providing smoother and more responsive handling.

This guide will walk you through the steps

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needed to perform a rear shock oil change on the McLeod [paid link] model. The procedure will be broken down into simple, easy-to-follow instructions to help you complete the task with precision.

Tools Required

• Shock pump
• 5mm and 6mm Allen wrenches [paid link]
• T10, T20, and T25 Torx drivers
• Oil pan
• Clean cloths or rags
• Manitou’s proprietary shock oil (recommended)
• Fork oil syringe or shock oil extractor tool
• Sealant grease (for reassembly)
• Small flathead screwdriver (for seal removal)
• Soft brush (optional)

Step 1: Preparation

Before you begin the oil change, ensure the shock is fully removed from the bike. Secure the bike in a work stand for stability. Make sure the shock is clean and dry to avoid contaminating the oil with dirt or debris.

• Remove the rear shock from the frame using a 5mm Allen wrench [paid link] for the mounting bolts.
• Place the shock on a clean surface, and be ready to work in a well-lit, clutter-free area.

Step 2: Disassembling the Shock

The McLeod rear shock features a top cap that must be removed to access the oil. Carefully loosen the cap and proceed with disassembly.

• Use a 6mm Allen wrench [paid link] to remove the top cap, ensuring you do not damage any of the components underneath.
• Once the top cap is removed, use a T10 Torx driver to remove the compression knob and any other attached parts on the shock.
• Gently take off the air sleeve from the shock body to expose the internals. Be cautious not to damage the seals during this step.

Step 3: Draining the Old Oil

Now that you have access to the shock’s internals, it’s time to drain the old oil.

• Place the shock over an oil pan, ensuring it is positioned to catch all the oil as it drains out.
• Using a syringe or oil extractor tool, carefully remove the old oil from the shock reservoir. You may need to gently tap the shock to help the oil flow out completely.
• Once most of the oil has been drained, wipe down the internal parts of the shock with a clean cloth to remove any excess oil.

Step 4: Cleaning the Shock

After draining the old oil, thoroughly clean the shock to prevent any dirt or debris from contaminating the new oil.

• Using a clean, lint-free cloth, wipe down the shock body and piston shaft.
• If necessary, use a soft brush to remove any dirt from the shock’s exterior and internal components, especially around the seals and threads.

Step 5: Inspecting and Replacing Seals

Inspect the seals carefully for any signs of damage or wear. The seals play a crucial role in keeping the shock oil inside and contaminants outside. If you notice any signs of cracking or deterioration, it’s essential to replace them.

• Use a small flathead screwdriver to carefully remove the old seals from the shock body.
• Replace the seals with new ones, ensuring they are correctly seated to avoid any leaks during the shock’s operation.

Step 6: Reassembling the Shock

Once the seals are in place and the shock is clean, it’s time to reassemble the shock.

• Apply a thin layer of sealant grease to the areas where the seals make contact with the shock body. This will help prevent future damage and improve the shock’s performance.
• Reinstall the air sleeve, ensuring it slides on smoothly without causing any damage to the seals.
• Secure the top cap back into place, tightening it with a 6mm Allen wrench. Be cautious not to overtighten, as this could cause damage to the threads.

Step 7: Adding Fresh Oil

Now it’s time to add the new oil to your McLeod rear shock.

• Using the recommended shock oil (Manitou’s proprietary oil is highly suggested), fill the shock reservoir with the appropriate amount of oil.
• Gently compress the shock to allow the oil to settle into the internals. Keep adding oil until the correct level is reached, typically indicated in the shock’s service manual.
• Once the oil is added, carefully reassemble any parts you may have removed, such as the compression knob, ensuring everything is tightened to manufacturer specifications.

Step 8: Reinstalling the Shock

With the oil change complete, it’s time to reinstall the shock onto your bike.

• Position the shock back onto the bike frame, aligning the mounting holes.
• Use a 5mm Allen wrench to securely tighten the mounting bolts.
• Check that the shock is aligned correctly and moves freely without any binding.

Step 9: Testing and Adjustments

After reinstalling the shock, it’s important to test its performance.

• Use a shock pump to ensure the air pressure is correct for your weight and riding style.
• Once the air pressure is set, test the shock by compressing it to check the damping performance.
• If the shock feels too soft or too firm, adjust the air pressure accordingly.

Additionally, test the rebound and compression settings to ensure they are functioning correctly. Adjust them to your desired ride feel.

Troubleshooting Common Set-Up Issues

If you experience any issues with the shock after performing the oil change, consider the following troubleshooting steps:

• Oil Leaks: If you notice oil leaking from the shock, check the seals and top cap for proper installation and tightness.
• No Damping or Poor Rebound: If the damping feels ineffective or the rebound is too slow, check the oil level and the condition of the seals. Insufficient oil or damaged seals could cause these issues.
• Shock Sag: If the shock feels too soft or too firm even after adjusting air pressure, the internal components may require a more thorough inspection or replacement.

Customization and Optimization for Better Performance

To optimize the McLeod rear shock for your specific riding style, consider these adjustments:

• Air Pressure: Experiment with different air pressures to find the sweet spot for your weight and riding terrain.
• Compression and Rebound: Adjust the compression and rebound settings for better control over rough terrain. If you ride on aggressive trails, consider stiffer settings for more control.
• Service Frequency: Perform regular oil changes, particularly after long rides or harsh conditions, to maintain optimal performance.

Conclusion

Performing a rear shock oil change on the McLeod is a straightforward process that requires careful attention to detail. By following this guide, you can ensure that your shock remains in peak [paid link] condition, offering you the best performance on your rides. Regular maintenance, including oil changes, will help you get the most out of your Manitou McLeod rear shock, keeping you comfortable and in control on the trails.