How to use our pellet retainer tools.

Pellet Retainer Tool for Needle-Style Air Fill Systems

⚠️ Important Warning:
These shocks are highly pressurized systems and can be dangerous. Use extreme caution when inserting or removing the needle. Never remove the needle without fully securing the pellet. Some FOX shocks (DPS, Float SL) may be up to 500 psi. That pressure can eject fluid or parts forcefully. Always wear eye protection. If unsure, stop and consult a professional.

A specialized tool for re-sealing shocks that use needle-style IFP or bladder air pressurization technique. This tool features a 4 mm Allen drive with a center hole, allowing you to insert a needle through it while tightening the pellet that seals the system.

What It Does

Used in some MTB shocks (e.g. Bomber CR, DPX2, Cane Creek) that don’t use standard Schrader-style ports. Instead, they use a rubber pellet or puck pierced by a needle to fill the reservoir, which yields precise pressures after needle removal.

This tool allows you to:

  • Insert a needle through the center
  • Tighten the 4 mm Allen bolt while pressure is applied
  • Seal the rubber pellet against high pressures (100–500 psi)
  • Ensure leak-free pressurization after needle removal

Versions Available

  • Plastic Version : works for Cane Creek and other soft-pellet shocks. Includes two tools in case one breaks. Lower cost.
  • Metal/Composite Version : needed only for certain FOX and Marzocchi shocks or anything over 150 psi. Designed for high torque and durability.

DIY Pellet Retainer Option

If you prefer to make your own, follow our step-by-step guide: How to Make My Own Pellet Retainer Tool. It takes minutes with a Dremel and a 4 mm Allen key. Everything is well explained, so you’ll get exactly what you need for your shock.

Why You Might Need It

  • Required for FOX shocks (DPS, DPX2, Float X, Float SL, etc.) due to very high IFP pressures (up to 500 psi)
  • Not needed for EXT, Γ–hlins, or PUSH shocks because those useΒ low-pressure in their damper and use high quality pellets.
  • Plastic version is not suitable for FOX or Marzocchi shocks over 150 psi; use the metal/composite version instead or Make your own.

How to Use It

  1. Loosen the 4 mm Allen screw on the pressurization port with a 4 mm Allen key.
  2. Insert the pellet retainer tool into the 4 mm Allen hole.
  3. Insert the needle through the center hole of the pellet retainer tool.
  4. Tighten the pellet retainer tool until you feel some resistance.
  5. Test for leaks by pumping a little air with your shock pump:
    • If it's leaking, tighten a bit more.
    • Do not over-torque.
  6. Fill your shock to the desired pressure with a shock pump
  7. Tighten the pellet until it's firm and the needle is hard to pull out:
    • If you cannot pull it out, it’s too tight.
  8. Pull on the needle and simultaneously prepare to tighten a little more.
  9. You may hear a hiss, that's air coming through the hose, not from the shock, don't worry :).
  10. Compress the shock to check for smooth return.
  11. If it returns smoothly, well done!
  12. If it returns very slowly, retry pressurizing.
    • Make sure you didn't just forget to open the rebound adjuster fully... I hope you didn't bleed the shock without opening the adjusters fully.

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Disclaimer

⚠️ This tool is for experienced home mechanics working with a needle to pressurize the damper. Always ensure you’re using the correct version for your shock. Failure to seal the pellet properly may cause air loss and damage the damper. By purchasing or using this tool, you agree to our terms of service.