Maintaining your SRAM Force eTap AXS (12-speed) rear derailleur is crucial for ensuring smooth shifting and optimal performance. One of the most important yet often overlooked maintenance tasks is lubricating the rear derailleur pulleys. These pulleys play a critical role in guiding the chain smoothly, and proper lubrication helps reduce friction, prevent wear, and improve the longevity of the component.

Tools Required

• 5mm Allen wrench
• Lubricant (specific to bike components, such as wet or dry chain lube)
• Cleaning solution (degreaser or bike-specific cleaner)
• Clean rags or paper towels
• Small brush (optional, for cleaning debris)
• Toothpick or small applicator (for precision lubrication)

Preparing for Maintenance

Before you begin lubricating the pulleys on your SRAM Force eTap AXS rear derailleur, it’s important to prepare the bike and work area properly.

1. Shift to the Smallest Gear: Shift the chain to the smallest chainring and smallest cog in the cassette to relieve tension on the derailleur.
2. Lift the Rear Wheel: Use a bike stand to elevate the rear wheel, or flip the bike upside down, so the derailleur is easily accessible.
3. Clean the Derailleur: Before applying any lubrication, make sure the derailleur and pulleys are free of dirt, grime, or old lubricant. Use a degreaser or bike cleaner and a rag or brush to clean the pulleys and surrounding components.

Disassembling the Rear Derailleur Pulleys

To properly lubricate the pulleys, you’ll need to access and remove them.

1. Remove the Rear Derailleur: Using a 5mm Allen wrench, remove the rear derailleur from the hanger. This will allow you to get a better angle for servicing the pulleys.
2. Take Out the Pulleys: The Force eTap AXS derailleur uses two pulleys: the upper (guide) pulley and the lower (idler) pulley. Each is attached with a bolt. Use the appropriate tool to remove the pulleys carefully. Make sure you remember the orientation for reassembly.

Cleaning the Pulleys

Once removed, thoroughly clean the pulleys to ensure proper lubrication and smooth operation.

1. Degrease the Pulleys: Use a degreaser or a bike-specific cleaner to remove any built-up grime, chain oil, or dirt from the pulleys. Wipe them down with a clean rag.
2. Check for Wear: Inspect the pulleys for any signs of wear, such as cracks or chipped teeth. If you notice any damage, it’s time to replace the pulleys.

Lubricating the Pulleys

Proper lubrication ensures smooth operation and reduces wear on the derailleur mechanism. Be careful not to over-lubricate, as excess lube can attract dirt and cause debris buildup.

1. Apply Lubricant: Using a small applicator or toothpick, apply a small amount of lubricant to the bearing and pivot points of the pulleys. Be sure to target the areas where the pulley moves and the axle that holds the pulley in place. Do not over-saturate the pulleys.
2. Spin the Pulleys: After applying lubricant, spin each pulley by hand to ensure that the lubricant evenly distributes throughout the moving parts. This will help ensure that the bearings are adequately greased without any excess residue.
3. Wipe Off Excess: Use a clean rag to wipe off any excess lubricant. Excess oil can attract dust and grime, which will compromise the performance of the derailleur over time.

Reassembling the Derailleur

Once the pulleys are lubricated, it’s time to reassemble the derailleur.

1. Install the Pulleys Back into the Derailleur: Carefully place the lubricated pulleys back into their respective positions on the derailleur.
2. Tighten the Bolts: Secure the pulleys back in place with the bolts, ensuring they are tightly fastened but not over-tightened. Over-tightening can cause damage to the pulley or derailleur body.
3. Reinstall the Rear Derailleur: Reattach the derailleur to the bike’s derailleur hanger, tightening the bolt with the 5mm Allen wrench.

Final Checks

After reassembling the derailleur, it’s essential to test the function of the lubricated pulleys.

1. Test Shifting: With the bike still on the stand or flipped over, manually rotate the pedals and shift through the gears to check for smooth operation. The derailleur should move freely, and the pulleys should guide the chain smoothly without any hesitation.
2. Check for Chain Noise: Pay attention to any unusual noises coming from the derailleur or pulleys. Squealing or grinding sounds may indicate that additional lubrication or cleaning is necessary.
3. Inspect for Proper Alignment: Ensure that the derailleur is aligned correctly and the pulleys are tracking the chain properly.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If you encounter issues after lubricating the pulleys, here are some potential solutions:

1. Excessive Noise: If you hear grinding or rubbing noises, it could indicate that too much lubricant was applied. Wipe down the pulleys again and check for any dirt or debris that may have stuck to the excess lube.
2. Poor Shifting Performance: If the shifting is still rough or sluggish after lubrication, ensure that the derailleur hanger is properly aligned and that the derailleur is not bent.
3. Slipping Chain: A slipping chain can be a result of worn pulleys or incorrect chain tension. Inspect the chain and pulleys for wear and replace them if necessary.

Regular Maintenance Schedule

To keep your Force eTap AXS rear derailleur performing at its best, it’s important to incorporate pulley lubrication into your regular maintenance routine.

• Every 500-1000 miles: Lubricate the pulleys as part of your regular drivetrain maintenance. This interval may vary depending on the conditions you ride in (e.g., wet, muddy, or dusty environments).
• Post-ride cleaning: After rides in harsh conditions, such as rain or mud, clean and lubricate the pulleys as needed to prevent the buildup of contaminants.

By keeping your SRAM Force eTap AXS (12-speed) rear derailleur pulleys well-maintained, you’ll ensure smoother shifting and extend the lifespan of your drivetrain components. Regular lubrication is a simple yet effective way to maintain your bike’s performance over time.