How to Change the Rear Shock on a Santa Cruz Heckler
Even if it is not damaged, it is a great idea to replace the rear shock of a mountain bike to improve the bike’s handling. A new rear shock surely helps the rider properly handle the bike, while climbing and descending.
Fortunately, it is not a tough thing to do. Especially with Santa Cruz Heckler, changing the rear shock is a problem-free activity. It increases your bike’s handling to a great deal, but changing the rear shock is not a cheap activity.
The Santa Cruz Heckler shocks are pretty expensive these days, ranging anywhere between $300 to $600. So, it might not be a good idea to change the shock, when it is not actually required.
Things required:
– Allen wrench
– New shock
– Shock pump
Instructions
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1
First of all, you need to identify the purpose of shock changing. When selecting a new shock, you need to keep a few things in mind. Find out a clear-cut purpose of this activity, plus determine what you like and dislike about your old shock. There are plenty of options to choose from. But make sure the new shock does not have the same handling issues.
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2
Find out the actual size of your rear shock. According to the official website, the Santa Cruz manufacturers use an 8.5-inch-by-2.5-inch rear shock. Furthermore, the mounting hardware is 22 millimetres wide with an 8-millimeter through-hole.
Write down this information on a piece of paper before buying the new stuff. You can also get the new shock online. Otherwise, the local bike shops are there to visit. -
3
After buying the new rear shock, remove the old one very gently. For this, use the Allen wrench and loosen the bolts that hold the shock. After removing the top cross-bar mount bolt, get rid of the one that attaches the shock to the swing arm mount.
If the shock is still fixed, wiggle it a bit until it falls loose. There is no need to use a hammer or any other tool, because you may damage the frame. -
4
After removing the old shock, clean your frame if there is any dust. You may use an old piece of cloth for this.
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5
Having cleaned all the dust, fix the new shock. Make sure it fits the frame just like the old one. The same bolts are required to be tightened.
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6
If you want to adjust your new shock according to your weight, take it to a bike mechanic. In case you want to do yourself, don’t forget to read the manufacturer’s guide book. You can also see direction on the website.
