Ok, so this was pretty dumb of me but I forgot my GS manual before getting to where i have to work on the bike. I have the lower allen bolt out and the top caps off.

What stops the forks from separating now? I can't find anything holding them together but the lowers won't slip off the upper tube. Trying to change seals tonight.

Thanks!!!!!!

Did you take out the retainer clips? They are located right above the seal. Once you take it out, just slide the fork in and back out fast and it will pop apart.

dond, you rock! Years of gunk was hiding those retainers. Now what's the best make shift seal driver? I tried a paint tube but it is a little too small (ie it hits the seal lip and not the body).

Thanks!!

It's been a while since I did the seals on my 89' but I *think* I remember using the appropriate size socket (probably something large in the 1/2" drive variety)

Doesn't the inner tube need to be in the outer sleeve before the oil seal can be replaced?

Technically speaking no, it doesn't. On an inverted fork it most certainly does however.

Its generally easier to slide all the parts onto the inner before inserting it into the outer tube just to make sure every thing is in order.

Seal driver...Well the upper needs to be in the lower for sure if you dont want to damage the seals. And I use a 2 foot length of PVC pipe to knock the seal in. The right size socket is to drive wheel bearings in....
Cool.
Srinath.

yes.  to srinath you listen.  pvc works great.