MAINTENANCE

Maintenance

Custom Axis Racing Shocks are built using the best materials available, and have a reputation for great durability. However, like any mechanical device which is subjected to the extreme conditions of racing, periodic maintenance is required to keep them operating at their best. Please use the guidelines below to maintain your shocks performance.

Thoroughly clean your shocks after each race using a mild soap and soft brush. Concentrate on areas such as below the bottom out bumper, threads under the preload ring, and around the adjustment knobs, as these are areas that dirt and debris can build up over time if not cleaned properly. Avoid or use extreme caution when using a pressure washer, compressed air, or a harsh detergent as they could damage seals or force dirt and water past the seals and into the shock. Dry thoroughly to avoid corrosion.

Inspect the shocks for any damage or abnormal wear before and after each use.

Check reservoirs for secure mounting.
Inspect hoses for abrasion, chafing, or kinking.
Make sure adjuster knobs turn freely and lube if necessary.
Examine reservoir bodies for dents or roost damage — severe dents can prevent proper oil flow inside the reservoir.
Check for play at the shock bushings — if there is noticeable up/down movement at the mounting points, replace the worn parts as soon as possible.
Visually inspect the shafts for nicks or gouges — this can damage the seals and cause oil leakage.

* A thin film of oil on the shafts is normal and is designed to keep shafts lubricated — any leakage or dripping of oil though indicates that the shock needs to be serviced.

Check the suspension components for free movement throughout travel — if your suspension is binding due to damage or corrosion, the ride quality and handling will suffer noticeably.

Have your shock serviced at least once a year, under normal riding conditions. How often service is needed depends on several factors including riding conditions, riding frequency, and how aggressively you ride. Shocks smooth out your ride by forcing special oil through ports and orifices inside the shock. Like engine oil, this shock oil is eventually broken down and loses some of its damping and lubricating qualities. Replacing this oil is a fairly inexpensive job, and will make a big difference in performance. If you feel that your shocks are not performing as well as they did when new, a service is most likely your solution. We are fully equipped to handle all service and repair work on Custom Axis Racing Shocks, and we can work with you to make any changes to help fine tune them to your requirements. Click here for instructions on how to have your shocks serviced.

Click here for Axis Shock Diagram in PDF format...