So I'm replacing the fork seals, took the cap off and this came out (along with like 1/4 cup of oil, there was like none):

Is this normal? I've heard of spacers, but this seems ridiculous. It's the same for both forks.

-Wright

The stock spacer is actually about an inch shorter than the spring, so the PO added some preload to stiffen up the ridiculous front suspension. Did you a favor 

Awesome, thanks for the reply.

Down to replacing the seals, and after wiping everything down really good I'm noticing some build up where the seals sit.


I've tried scrubbing it with a cloth, but it's really not doing much.

Is there anything safe to use to clean that up?

And when putting on the new seals, should I be lubing them with anything? Only grease I have on hand is some "high-temp disc break wheel bearing grease" lol.

Thanks,
Wright

That doesn't look like it's pitted at all so you should be okay.  To be safe, you'll want to just use some fork oil when sliding the seal and other bushings/rings on. Some people say to put a plastic bag over the top of the fork and slide the seal over that so you don't scrape the tube at all (since the seal is metal), however, I didn't, and I was okay. So it's up to you on that one.

Adding a little pre-load to the stock spring is a potential stop gap measure against bottoming out. It does not change the spring rate, and it does not firm up the spring. It can certainly make your suspension harsh due to the decreased rebound travel from rest.

For best performance, pre-load should be set for sag. If you want bottoming resistance, raise your oil level. Do not go higher than 90mm on the stock springs (or adding a measured ~10cc), or higher than 100MM with aftermarket springs.

For best performance, buy new aftermarket springs.