DIY Maintenance: Lubricating Force XPLR eTap AXS Rear Derailleur Pulleys

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Proper maintenance of your SRAM Force XPLR eTap AXS [paid link] rear derailleur ensures smooth shifting performance and extends the lifespan of your components. One essential aspect of derailleur maintenance is keeping the pulleys properly lubricated. The rear derailleur pulleys play a vital role in guiding the chain across the cassette, ensuring consistent shifting, and reducing wear on the drivetrain. This guide will walk you through the steps to lubricate your SRAM Force XPLR eTap AXS rear derailleur pulleys, troubleshoot common issues, and optimize their performance.

Tools Required

  • 3mm or 4mm Allen wrench
  • Chain lubricant (wet or dry)
  • Clean rag or towel
  • Degreaser (optional)
  • Small brush (optional)
  • Torque wrench (optional)

Preparing for Maintenance

Before beginning any maintenance on your Force XPLR eTap AXS rear derailleur, make sure to position the bike securely in a workstand. You will need to access the derailleur and pulleys easily, so a stable setup is essential. It is also recommended to shift the bike into the smallest cog before starting the maintenance process.

Disassembling the Rear Derailleur

To lubricate the pulleys effectively, you need to first remove the derailleur from the bike. Follow these steps for proper disassembly:

  1. Remove the derailleur from the bike:
    • Use your 3mm or 4mm Allen wrench to remove the rear derailleur hanger bolt and disconnect the derailleur from the bike frame. Keep the bolt in a safe place for reinstallation.
  2. Remove the chain from the derailleur:
    • If the chain is connected to the derailleur, either remove the quick link (if applicable) or use a chain tool to disconnect it. Be sure to keep the chain well-supported during this process.
  3. Remove the pulleys:
    • The pulleys are usually secured with a small bolt. Use the appropriate size Allen wrench to unscrew the bolts holding the pulleys in place. Carefully remove each pulley, taking note of their orientation and any washers or spacers.

Cleaning the Pulleys

Before lubricating the pulleys, ensure that they are clean and free from any dirt, grime, or chain oil build-up. A clean pulley will work more efficiently and prolong the life of the drivetrain.

  1. Use degreaser:
    • Apply a degreaser to both pulleys and scrub them gently with a small brush to remove any built-up oil and grime. This step is especially important if you notice any thick, sticky build-up on the pulleys.
  2. Wipe with a clean rag:
    • After cleaning, wipe down the pulleys with a clean rag or towel to ensure they are free from any residue.
  3. Inspect the pulleys for wear:
    • Take this opportunity to inspect the pulleys for any visible damage, cracks, or worn teeth. If the pulleys appear worn or damaged, it’s time to replace them to maintain optimal shifting performance.

Lubricating the Pulleys

Once the pulleys are clean and dry, it’s time to lubricate them. Proper lubrication ensures smooth rotation and reduces friction, helping to improve shifting and drivetrain efficiency.

  1. Apply lubricant to the pulley axle:
    • Place a small amount of chain lubricant (wet or dry) on the pulley axle. You only need a small drop to ensure smooth movement. Avoid over-lubricating, as excess lubricant can attract dirt.
  2. Lubricate the pulley bearings:
    • Gently rotate the pulleys while applying a light amount of lubricant to the bearings. This will ensure that the lubrication reaches the internal parts of the pulley system.
  3. Wipe off excess lubricant:
    • After applying the lubricant, use a rag to wipe off any excess. Excess lubricant can attract dirt and cause more wear in the long run.

Reassembling the Rear Derailleur

After lubricating the pulleys, it’s time to reassemble the derailleur and reinstall it on your bike.

  1. Reattach the pulleys:
    • Place the pulleys back into their original positions and reattach them using the same bolts you removed earlier. Be sure to tighten the bolts to the manufacturer’s recommended torque settings, which are typically around 6–8 Nm.
  2. Reconnect the derailleur to the bike:
    • Reinstall the derailleur onto the rear derailleur hanger and secure it with the hanger bolt. Tighten the bolt to the appropriate torque specification to avoid any potential loosening during rides.
  3. Reconnect the chain:
    • Reconnect the chain to the derailleur, ensuring that it is properly threaded through the jockey wheels and the rear derailleur cage.

Testing and Adjusting Shifting Performance

Once the derailleur is reassembled, it’s essential to test and fine-tune your shifting to ensure everything is working correctly.

  1. Test shifting:
    • With the bike securely mounted on a workstand or leaning against a wall, test the shifting by manually rotating the pedals. Shift through all the gears, paying attention to smoothness and consistency.
  2. Adjust derailleur limit screws:
    • If you notice that shifting is not as smooth as it should be, you may need to adjust the derailleur limit screws. The screws control how far the derailleur can move in both the high and low gear positions, ensuring the chain doesn’t overshoot the cassette.
  3. Fine-tune the derailleur position:
    • If needed, adjust the position of the derailleur using the barrel adjuster on the derailleur or shifter. This allows for small changes in the indexing, ensuring precise shifting.

Troubleshooting Common Set-Up Issues

Even with proper lubrication and reassembly, issues may still arise. Here are some common problems and their solutions:

  • Skipping gears:
    • This could be due to worn-out pulleys, chain, or cassette. If lubrication is not solving the issue, inspect these components for wear and replace them if necessary.
  • Noisy derailleur:
    • A noisy derailleur could indicate insufficient lubrication or a misalignment in the derailleur hanger. Ensure that the pulley axle is properly lubricated and that the derailleur is aligned with the cassette.
  • Stiff or sluggish pulley movement:
    • If the pulleys are not spinning freely after lubrication, they may be damaged, or the axle may be too tight. Ensure the axle is clean and lubricated, and check the pulleys for wear.

Optimizing Performance

To keep your SRAM Force XPLR eTap AXS rear derailleur pulleys functioning at their best, regular maintenance is key. Lubricate the pulleys every few months or after riding in wet or muddy conditions. This will ensure that the pulleys remain clean, free of debris, and continue to perform efficiently.

Compatibility with Other Drivetrain Components

The SRAM Force XPLR eTap AXS system is designed for use with SRAM’s AXS wireless shifting system and is compatible with a range of other SRAM components, such as the Force eTap AXS crankset, chain, and cassette. However, it’s important to check compatibility with your specific setup, especially when mixing and matching components from different brands or models. For optimal performance, always ensure that the rear derailleur and pulleys are compatible with your chainring size, cassette, and chain.

By maintaining the proper lubrication of your rear derailleur pulleys and keeping your drivetrain clean, you can enjoy smoother, quieter rides and improve the longevity of your SRAM Force XPLR eTap AXS system.