Maintaining the Öhlins TTX22M Coil [paid link] rear shock ensures optimal performance, longevity, and a smoother ride. One of the key maintenance tasks for this shock is an oil change, which should be done regularly to keep the internals working efficiently. This guide will walk you through the installation, adjustment, maintenance, and troubleshooting of the TTX22M Coil [paid link] rear shock, with a focus on performing an oil change.

Tools Required

• Öhlins TTX22M Coil oil change kit (or equivalent)
• 8mm and 10mm wrenches
• Torque wrench [paid link]
• Oil syringe
• 30mm shock socket (for removing the shock from the bike)
• 4mm, 5mm, and 6mm Allen wrenches [paid link]
• Cleaning rags or paper towels
• Compressed air (optional, for cleaning)
• 10w or 20w shock oil (depending on rider preference and conditions)

Preparation Before Oil Change

Before beginning the oil change, it is crucial to prepare the workspace and gather all necessary tools. You should also be familiar with the Öhlins TTX22M Coil’s design, as this will make the process smoother.

1. Remove the Rear Shock: Start by carefully removing the rear shock from your bike. Use a 30mm shock socket to disconnect the shock from the bike frame. You may need to remove the linkage components depending on your bike’s design.
2. Set Up a Clean Workspace: It’s essential to work in a clean environment to avoid contaminating the shock. Lay down a clean cloth or towel to catch any oil that spills during the process.

Disassembly of the TTX22M Coil Shock

The TTX22M Coil shock has a relatively straightforward disassembly process, though care must be taken to prevent any damage to the internal components.

1. Remove the Spring: The TTX22M Coil rear shock is equipped with a coil spring. Begin by loosening the preload adjuster on the spring. This allows the spring to be removed without stress. Once the preload adjuster is loosened, slide the spring off the shock body.
2. Unscrew the End Caps: Using your 8mm and 10mm wrenches, carefully unscrew both the top and bottom end caps. The top cap houses the rebound adjuster, while the bottom cap houses the compression adjuster. Keep track of the parts as they are removed.
3. Drain the Old Oil: With the end caps removed, carefully hold the shock over a container to drain the old oil. Gently tap the shock to encourage the oil to exit the body. Use a syringe to extract any remaining oil from the reservoir.

Cleaning and Inspection

Now that the shock is disassembled and the old oil has been drained, it’s time to clean the components and inspect the shock for any potential issues.

1. Clean the Shock Internals: Use a clean rag or paper towels to wipe down the shock body and other components. Pay close attention to the internals of the shock, making sure that no dirt or debris is present. If necessary, use compressed air to blow out any stubborn particles.
2. Inspect the O-Rings and Seals: While cleaning, inspect all seals and O-rings for wear. If any of these parts appear damaged or worn, they should be replaced to prevent oil leaks and ensure optimal performance.
3. Check for Damage: Examine the shock body for any signs of damage, such as dents or cracks. If the shock is damaged, it may need to be serviced by an Öhlins technician before proceeding with the oil change.

Reassembly and Oil Refill

Once all parts are cleaned and inspected, it’s time to reassemble the shock and refill it with fresh oil.

1. Install New Oil Seals: If you’re replacing seals, now is the time to install them. Ensure that the new seals are correctly placed to prevent oil leakage.
2. Add New Oil: Using the oil syringe, carefully add the recommended shock oil into the shock body. Typically, the TTX22M Coil uses either 10w or 20w oil depending on the rider’s weight, riding style, and the environmental conditions. Be sure to follow the manufacturer’s oil volume specifications.
3. Reinstall the End Caps: Once the oil is added, reinstall the top and bottom end caps. Use your 8mm and 10mm wrenches to tighten the end caps securely. Remember to check the torque specifications for these components to avoid over-tightening.
4. Reinstall the Spring: Slide the coil spring back onto the shock body, making sure it fits securely. Adjust the preload to your desired setting. Be cautious not to overtighten the preload adjuster.

Reinstallation of the Shock

After the oil change is complete, it’s time to reinstall the shock onto the bike.

1. Install the Shock Back into the Bike: Reattach the shock to the frame using the shock mount bolts. Make sure to torque them to the recommended specifications to ensure proper attachment and safety.
2. Check for Leaks: Before taking the bike for a test ride, visually inspect the shock for any signs of oil leakage around the end caps or seals.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

When performing a rear shock oil change on the TTX22M Coil, you may encounter certain issues that require troubleshooting. Here are some common problems and how to address them:

• Oil Leaks: If you notice oil leaking from the shock after reinstallation, double-check the seals and end caps for proper installation. Make sure that the O-rings are intact and that the end caps are tightened correctly.
• Excessive Rebound or Compression Resistance: If the shock feels too stiff or doesn’t compress smoothly after an oil change, it may be due to air trapped in the shock or insufficient oil volume. Bleed the shock by pressing the shock shaft in and out to release any air bubbles.
• Spring Noise: If the coil spring makes noise when riding, check the spring preload and ensure that the spring is seated properly. Lubricating the spring with a small amount of silicone grease can also reduce noise.

Customization and Optimization

To further optimize the TTX22M Coil for your riding style, consider adjusting the rebound and compression settings. These adjustments control how quickly the shock returns to its neutral position after compression and how the shock reacts to impacts.

1. Rebound Adjustment: The rebound adjuster on the top cap controls how quickly the shock returns to its fully extended position after being compressed. A faster rebound helps the shock react more quickly to consecutive bumps, while a slower rebound is useful for smoother terrain or heavier riders.
2. Compression Adjustment: The bottom cap houses the compression adjuster, which controls how much resistance the shock offers when compressing. Adjusting this can help with fine-tuning the shock’s performance based on riding conditions. Softer compression is ideal for smoother trails, while stiffer compression is beneficial for rougher terrain.

Compatibility with Other Drivetrain Components

The Öhlins TTX22M Coil is highly compatible with most modern mountain bike drivetrains. However, it is important to ensure that the shock’s travel and dimensions match the frame requirements. Check the bike frame’s specifications before installation to make sure the shock will fit properly.

Additionally, if you are using a high-end drivetrain, it is recommended to pair the TTX22M Coil with other high-performance components to maintain a balanced bike setup.

By regularly performing an oil change and making proper adjustments, you can keep your TTX22M Coil rear shock in top condition, ensuring excellent performance on any trail.