February 09, 2012, 10:24:44 AM

Author Topic: oiling seals on shocks and forks  (Read 456 times)

Offline steveeldr

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oiling seals on shocks and forks
« on: April 01, 2009, 11:14:24 PM »
So I've had my bike for some time now (6-7 years) and I just read the manuals for them. I have a Rock Shox Duke fork and a rock shox SID w/lockout rear shock.

Both manuals suggest cleaning with warm water and mild soap, drying and adding 2-3 drops of oil (preferably w/teflon) after each ride.

I was thinking of using triflow, anyone have any other suggestions?

Thanks,
Steve
Life is not a journey to the grave with the intention of arriving safely in a pretty well preserved body but rather to skid broadside totally worn out proclaiming “”WOW What a RIDE!”

Offline The Llama

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Re: oiling seals on shocks and forks
« Reply #1 on: April 01, 2009, 11:18:05 PM »
http://www.sram.com/en/service/.. down the left side are videos.. probably not your exact model but get ideas .. I wouldn't use triflow for that.. little light.. probably use Finishline's Dri lube.. wont attract dirt as much
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Offline Coreman

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Re: oiling seals on shocks and forks
« Reply #2 on: April 02, 2009, 07:58:42 AM »
I have a few shocks,..different types, front, rear, etc.
Over the years it's become clear to me that oiling up stantions is a bad idea.
Keeping them clean is imperative.
If you do lube the stantions make sure you wipe them as dry as possible before riding again.
It's more about "CLEAN" than about "LUBED".
Also, make sure there are NO nicks, scratches, etc. The slightest imperfection in the surface of a stantion can be the worst thing for seals (other than oily dirt).
So I've had my bike for some time now (6-7 years) and I just read the manuals for them.
6-7 years is a long time , especially if you ride alot.
If your shocks are older than a couple of seasons, it's best to have them totally overhauled by an expert. Hopefully your LBS can satisfy that criteria. Otherwise, there are some independent companies out there that really know how to service shocks.
JM2C
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Offline steveeldr

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Re: oiling seals on shocks and forks
« Reply #3 on: April 02, 2009, 10:31:40 PM »
Thanks guys,

I do keep the forks clean (most the time), not too obsessive about cleaning the bikes except the moving parts. I have thought about having the forks/shock rebuilt at some time but they just keep working so I leave em alone.

Just last ride my rear shock started acting funny when I tried to climb a two foot step up for my son's amusement (got it on the second try). I haven't had a chance to check it out since then, seemed to be sticking a little.

When I do have them rebuilt I am going to check out Push, I hear they do a great job.

Steve
Life is not a journey to the grave with the intention of arriving safely in a pretty well preserved body but rather to skid broadside totally worn out proclaiming “”WOW What a RIDE!”