How to adjust front suspension preload?

[Yianna]

Simple question. Is there a special tool that I don't have? How do I apply torque to these pins with the markings on them? Pipe wrench? Or do I have to turn the nuts these pins stick through?

[Iarn]

The GS suspension is crude. There is no way to adjust the preload of the forks without partially disassembling them unlike with more advanced models. To adjust the preload you have to take the fork cap off and alter the length of the spacer inside the fork (stock spacer is metal, if the springs have been changed it's likely a PVC spacer, which is acceptable) to alter the preload. Longer spacer is more preload, shorter spacer is less preload. If you're looking for specifics beyond that I'm sure we can work that out as well.

[sledge]

The GS suspension is crude. There is no way to adjust the preload of the forks

Not quite........

http://gstwins.com/gsboard/index.php?topic=40097.0


If its what I think it is, its just a case a of getting a spanner on the flats and winding it clockwise to increase the loading and anticlockwise to decrease it.

No 21 on this drawing....

https://www.motorcyclespareparts.eu/suzuki-parts/motorcycles/gs500eu-1992/front-damper-618535/5135101d60-bolt-fork.aspx

[Iarn]

The GS suspension is crude. There is no way to adjust the preload of the forks

Not quite........

http://gstwins.com/gsboard/index.php?topic=40097.0


If its what I think it is, its just a case a of getting a spanner on the flats and winding it clockwise to increase the loading and anticlockwise to decrease it.

No 21 on this drawing....

https://www.motorcyclespareparts.eu/suzuki-parts/motorcycles/gs500eu-1992/front-damper-618535/5135101d60-bolt-fork.aspx

Ahh, today I learned. I suppose I misunderstood since the OP seemed pretty vague to me. Well, there you have it.

[fetor56]

Without Terry all is lost. 

[Yianna]

Alright thanks for the info.