While searching around, I came across a link to this EXCELLENT fork how-to: http://www.geocities.com/inline_four/team_smelly/diy/fork_seals/
Can someone explain to me the "fork seal driver" in step 16? What length and diameter PVC pipe should one get? Would a rubber mallet be better than a sledge hammer?
I installed my springs the easy way, but once I get some new dust seals and some means to do step 6, I want to change out my seals and oil. I'm quite happy with the new springs! I did the 3/4" spacers, and while the ride is definitely a lot stiffer, that is a small price to pay for it not bottoming out anymore!! I love it! I don't have to nearly stop for speed bumps and steep driveways!
Beyond the not bottoming out part and the bumpier ride, I didn't notice a whole lot of difference. It didn't feel unstable in turns before, nor does it now. I think it was worth the $60 just to get it to stop bottoming out! My bike also feels slightly taller, but it still feels comfortable for 5'7" me, and I can still flatfoot on uneven surfaces so I'm happy.
I'm loving this bike... Weekend wrenching is my new hobby :icon_mrgreen:
I don't remember the diameter of the PVC pipe I used to seat seals. Just go to the hardware store when you will have the forks off and try out all they have to find the best matching diameter.
As far as step #6, do youself a favor and avoid extra hassle by making this tool
http://gstwins.com/gsboard/index.php?topic=7084.msg59516#msg59516
the one I made is slightly different from described above, but basically the same idea and also uses 5/8 bolts. Then you wouldn't needs an impact screwdriver and will be sure that it is tight when assembling forks.
Jenya
Do you mean the straps and screwdrivers for compressing the fork, the bolts for holding holding that end piece in place, or both? I'm still not entirely clear on how to do that whole process... I hope it turns out as easy as the carbs did... That's some great info, though, thanks for the link!
I just replaced my seals this weekend - I used about a 2.5 foot length of 1.5 inch diameter schedule 40 PVC pipe as a seal driver. Good luck.
forget straps and screwdrivers. That is masochism. Just make the the bolt tool. It will be very easy then.
Quote from: Jenya on June 19, 2006, 06:36:57 PM
forget straps and screwdrivers. That is masochism. Just make the the bolt tool. It will be very easy then.
With that bolt tool you dont need the straps? So... What does compressing the fork do?
You'll understand it clearely when you will start taking forks apart. Compressing forks is a poor man's way to remove an Allen bolt on the bottom of the fork. It is screwed through the body of a slider and into the the dampener rod inside of the fork. The rod will rotate together with the bolt as you try to unscrew it, and prevent you from removing the bolt. Compressing springs supposed to create enough friction to keep the rod in place while loosening the bolt. To loosen it that way requires an impact wrench.
A bolt tool , on the other hand, is a nice and clean way of doing it. It engages into the head of the dampener rod and doesn't allow it to roate, assuming you will hold the other side of the bolt with a wrench. You will be albe to remove the Allen bolt easily and, also, install it back securelly.
All this still probably doesn't make much sense to you, but, like I said, all will become clear as soon as you will start taking forks apart.
Jenya
Here is the "bolt tool" in use. Since I was working by myself this time, I clamped the Allen wrench into the jaws of a vise. (No comments from the peanut gallery about the "root beer belly"! :icon_rolleyes:)
(http://www.bbburma.net/MiscFotos/CX7530_0272_LooseningForkDamperBolt.jpg)
And here is the section of (1.5-inch, Schedule 40) PVC pipe that I use as a fork seal driver. It doubles as a "garage" for the bolt tool:
(http://www.bbburma.net/MiscFotos/100_1464_PVC_ForkSealDriver.jpg)
I get it.. Handy! Thanks, Y'all! :thumb:
Well for the 'bolt tool', i wasn't prepared to pay out even more money other than the plastic waste piping to seat the seals. I used a broom handle as a bolt tool which worked well. Used on one fork and then found it no good on the other fork i was taking to bits. Found a golf club, iron no.7, in the house and gave it a go as the rubber grip looked the part. Worked a treat, first time, used it to torque up, no problems.