After a year of contemplation and research, I finally decided to rebuild my beloved Manitou R7 using the Enduro Fork Seal Kit and Instructions available from RWC (Real World Cycling).
I found the entire process very easy for anyone who considers themselves to be mechanically inclined, and was very happy to find that the instructions were not only well-written, but the accompanying pictures at each step were very detailed and allowed me to complete the rebuild without confusion.
One note, that my R7 came equipped with the Remote Lock-out and was note described in anywhere in the instructions. Though, thanks to the pictures at the stage involving that side of the fork, I was able to easily figure out what to do.
I would highly recommend this kit and instruction pack to anyone who is confident in doing the work themselves. I found it to be a very cost-effective way to ensure I can continue to enjoy the best fork I have ever ridden for a very long time.
My only complaint, that the fluid and oils required are not available in the very small capacities required, and because they are mostly specialty and fully synthetic, can be quite expensive. Total Cost for Seal Kit and Fluids was approximately $80 CDN.
If you have any questions, please don't hesitate to reach out. I would happily do this same rebuild for anyone interested.
Thanks for reading!
Sources:
RWC - Seals Kit
http://www.enduroforkseals.com/id43.htmlRWC - Instructions
http://www.enduroforkseals.com/sitebuildercontent/sitebuilderfiles/r7_platinum1c.pdf
