Keep your Fox Shocks in top condition with regular maintenance for optimal off-road performance.
Fox Shocks are designed to withstand some of the toughest conditions, but like any suspension component, they require regular maintenance to keep performing at their best. Whether you’re an off-road enthusiast or simply want to keep your vehicle’s suspension system in top shape, maintaining your Fox Shocks is crucial for ensuring long-lasting performance.
Here’s how you can properly maintain your Fox Shocks to extend their lifespan and ensure they continue to provide excellent performance.
1. Regularly Inspect for Leaks and Damage
Why It Matters:
Leaks and damage can cause your Fox Shocks to lose performance, leading to poor ride quality, reduced stability, and overall suspension failure. Inspecting your shocks regularly helps you catch any issues before they become major problems.
What to Do:
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Check for oil leaks: Look for any oil residue around the shock body or mounting points. If you notice oil leakage, it’s a sign that the seals are damaged or worn.
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Inspect the shock body and reservoir: Check for any physical damage, such as dents, cracks, or signs of wear. Damage to the shock body or reservoir can lead to performance issues and may require a replacement.
Pro Tip: Inspect your shocks every 1,000 to 2,000 miles, especially after rough off-roading or towing, to ensure everything is in good working order.
2. Clean Your Shocks After Off-Roading
Why It Matters:
Dirt, mud, and debris can get trapped in the seals and internal components of your Fox Shocks, causing them to wear out faster and lose their effectiveness. Cleaning your shocks after each off-road adventure is essential for keeping them functioning properly.
What to Do:
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Wash the shocks: Use a hose and mild detergent to wash away dirt, mud, and debris. Avoid using harsh chemicals that can damage the shock's finish.
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Dry the shocks: After cleaning, dry the shocks thoroughly to prevent water from seeping into the internal components and causing rust or corrosion.
Pro Tip: Regular cleaning after each off-road trip helps maintain the longevity of your shocks and ensures they perform at their peak for longer.
3. Check the Mounting Hardware and Bolts
Why It Matters:
Loose or damaged mounting hardware can cause the shocks to perform poorly or even become detached while driving. Regularly checking the mounting hardware ensures that your shocks stay securely attached and function as intended.
What to Do:
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Tighten bolts: Ensure that the bolts securing your Fox Shocks to the vehicle frame and suspension are properly torqued to the manufacturer’s specifications.
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Inspect mounts: Check the shock mounts for any signs of damage or wear, as these components can wear out over time.
Pro Tip: It’s a good idea to check your shock mounts every 3,000 to 5,000 miles or after any rough off-road trips to ensure they are secure.
4. Rebuild Your Fox Shocks When Necessary
Why It Matters:
Over time, the internal components of your Fox Shocks will experience wear, especially after extended use in harsh off-road conditions. Rebuilding your shocks periodically will ensure they continue to deliver the performance you expect.
What to Do:
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Rebuild kits: Fox offers rebuild kits for many of their shock models. These kits include all the necessary seals, oils, and components to rebuild your shocks.
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Professional service: If you're not comfortable rebuilding the shocks yourself, Fox offers professional servicing at authorized service centers. Rebuilding your shocks ensures they continue to work at peak performance.
Pro Tip: Rebuilding your shocks every 20,000 to 30,000 miles is recommended, depending on the conditions you drive in.
5. Lubricate the Bushings and Mounting Points
Why It Matters:
Lubricating the bushings and mounting points on your Fox Shocks reduces friction, helping them move smoothly and preventing premature wear. Proper lubrication ensures your shocks function efficiently and last longer.
What to Do:
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Use the right lubricant: Apply a light coat of shock-specific grease or lubricant to the bushings and mounting points. Avoid using too much grease, as excess lubricant can attract dirt and debris.
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Lubricate regularly: Lubricate the bushings every 5,000 miles or after each off-road session to prevent friction and wear.
Pro Tip: Keeping the bushings and mounting points lubricated helps to reduce noise and improve the smoothness of your suspension system.
Final Thoughts
Proper maintenance of your Fox Shocks is essential for ensuring they perform at their best for years to come. By regularly inspecting for leaks and damage, cleaning after off-roading, checking mounting hardware, rebuilding when necessary, and lubricating the bushings, you can keep your shocks in top condition. With routine care, Fox Shocks will continue to provide superior off-road performance, improving your vehicle’s stability, control, and ride quality for many adventures to come.