Step-by-Step Rear Shock Oil Change for TTX2Air

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The Öhlins TTX2Air rear shock is a high-performance component designed for mountain biking, offering superior damping and fine-tuned adjustability. However, over time, the internal oil within the shock will degrade, leading to diminished performance. Regular oil changes are crucial to maintaining the shock’s responsiveness and longevity. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the entire process of changing the oil in your TTX2Air rear shock.

Tools Required

  • 10mm wrench
  • 8mm Allen key
  • Shock pump
  • Torque wrench [paid link]
  • T25 Torx driver
  • 3mm Allen key
  • Clean towels or rags
  • Öhlins TTX2Air oil (specific oil recommended by Öhlins)
  • Drain pan or container for used oil
  • Needle nose pliers (if necessary)
  • Clean gloves
  • Clean workbench or bike stand [paid link]
  • Ø1.5mm o-ring pick (optional)

Preparing the TTX2Air Rear Shock

Before diving into the oil change procedure, it is important to safely remove and prepare the TTX2Air rear shock.

1. Remove the Shock from the Bike

  • Use a 10mm wrench and an 8mm Allen key to detach the rear shock from the frame of the bike. Ensure the bike is properly supported during this process to avoid damaging the shock or frame.
  • Carefully remove the shock, making sure to keep any bolts or washers in a safe place for reassembly.

2. Clean the Shock Exterior

  • Wipe the exterior of the shock with a clean rag to remove any dirt or debris. This will prevent contaminants from entering the shock when disassembling it.
  • Pay particular attention to the seals and the piston rod, which can collect dirt and grime.

Disassembling the TTX2Air Rear Shock

The next step involves carefully opening the shock to access the internal components. This is where you will drain the old oil and prepare for the replacement.

1. Remove the Shock End Caps

  • Use the 3mm Allen key to remove the screws securing the shock’s end caps.
  • If the shock has a T25 Torx screw, use the T25 driver to remove it.
  • Carefully remove the end caps, noting how they are positioned to ensure proper reassembly.

2. Release the Air from the Shock

  • Use a shock pump to release any remaining air pressure from the shock. It’s crucial to perform this step before opening the shock, as releasing the air will prevent oil from splattering when the shock is disassembled.

3. Remove the Damper Cartridge

  • Using a 10mm wrench, carefully loosen the damper cartridge from the shock body. This step will allow you to remove the cartridge and begin the oil drainage process.

Draining the Old Oil

Once the shock is disassembled, the next step is to drain the used oil. Over time, shock oil degrades, which can impact the shock’s performance and damping capabilities.

1. Drain the Oil from the Damper Cartridge

  • Tilt the damper cartridge into a clean drain pan or container to drain the oil. Make sure to allow the oil to drain completely.
  • Depending on the condition of the shock and its last oil change, you may notice discolored or thickened oil.

2. Clean the Internal Components

  • After draining the oil, use a clean rag to wipe down the internal components of the shock. Remove any remaining oil and check for signs of wear or damage.
  • Pay special attention to the seals and o-rings, as worn seals may need to be replaced to ensure a tight seal during reassembly.

Reassembling the Shock

Once the shock is fully drained and cleaned, you can begin reassembling the TTX2Air rear shock with fresh oil.

1. Apply Fresh Oil to the Damper Cartridge

  • Refill the damper cartridge with the specified Öhlins TTX2Air oil. Use the recommended amount and type of oil as specified in the Öhlins manual.
  • Ensure the oil is evenly distributed throughout the cartridge by gently shaking it or tilting it back and forth.

2. Reinstall the Damper Cartridge

  • Once the damper cartridge is filled, carefully reinstall it into the shock body.
  • Tighten the damper cartridge with a 10mm wrench to the manufacturer’s recommended torque specification.

3. Install New Seals and O-Rings

  • If you’re replacing seals or o-rings, ensure they are correctly positioned and properly lubricated with a small amount of shock oil.
  • Use the o-ring pick (if available) to remove any old or damaged seals before installing new ones.

4. Reassemble the End Caps

  • Reattach the end caps to the shock. Tighten the screws using a T25 Torx driver or 3mm Allen key, following the proper torque specifications.
  • Double-check the orientation of the end caps to ensure they fit properly.

Final Adjustment and Testing

After reassembling the shock, you need to perform some final checks and adjustments to ensure the shock is functioning correctly.

1. Reinstall the Shock onto the Bike

  • Attach the shock back to the frame, using the appropriate torque specifications for the mounting bolts. Ensure the shock is securely fastened.
  • Use a torque wrench [paid link] to tighten the bolts to the manufacturer’s recommended torque values.

2. Pump the Shock to the Correct Pressure

  • Use a shock pump to inflate the shock to the desired pressure based on your weight and riding style. This is crucial for achieving proper suspension performance.

3. Test the Shock

  • Before riding, compress and extend the shock a few times to ensure the damping is functioning properly.
  • Take the bike for a short ride to confirm the shock is performing optimally. Listen for any unusual sounds, which could indicate an issue with the assembly or oil levels.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

During or after an oil change, you might encounter a few common issues. Here’s how to troubleshoot them:

1. Shock Is Still Not Responsive

  • Ensure that the damper cartridge is correctly installed and filled with the proper amount of oil.
  • Check for any air bubbles trapped in the oil. Bleed the shock if necessary to remove any air pockets.

2. Leaking Oil

  • Check that all seals and o-rings are properly installed. Leaking oil could be a sign of worn seals or improper assembly.
  • Replace any damaged seals and reassemble the shock carefully.

3. Unusual Sounds

  • If you hear clicking or popping noises, it could indicate that the shock’s air spring is not properly pressurized.
  • Recheck the shock pressure and ensure it is correctly adjusted before further testing.

Customization and Optimization

For riders looking to further optimize their Öhlins TTX2Air shock, consider the following adjustments:

  • Rebound Adjustment: Adjust the rebound to control how quickly the shock returns after compression. A slower rebound can improve stability on rough terrain, while a faster rebound enhances comfort on smoother trails.
  • Compression Settings: Adjust the high and low-speed compression settings to match your riding style and trail conditions. Softer settings are better for technical, rocky terrain, while firmer settings are suitable for faster descents.

Compatibility with Other Drivetrain Components

The Öhlins TTX2Air rear shock is designed to work seamlessly with a variety of mountain bike drivetrains. However, it’s important to verify compatibility with the specific frame geometry and other suspension components. Ensure that the shock is properly sized for your bike’s frame and that the shock mounting hardware is compatible with your frame’s shock mount configuration. Additionally, the shock’s performance can be fine-tuned to work with different fork and wheel sizes.

By keeping these factors in mind, you can achieve the best performance and longevity from your Öhlins TTX2Air rear shock. Regular maintenance and correct oil changes are essential for optimal suspension function and a smooth riding experience.