I would like to install a pair of fork protectors (see item #23 on this diagram).  They cost about the same as oil seals, but they just might prevent me from ever needing oil seals again.  However, I don't know if they will fit on my '99.

The diagram makes it look like they sit on top of the dust seals, but I think I saw a photo somewhere that shows them clamped around the actual lower fork tube.

QUESTION:  Does anyone know where I can find a good close-up photo of this area on a 2001+ bike?  Barring that, could someone describe how they attach?

Let's just get together and take a ride- you can scope out my bike, take some pictures....

That wont protect the seals... That will just keep some flying rocks off the forks... Seals dry up, or dry rot or just plain waer out from the fork tubes sliding on them.
Cool.
Srinath.

I put fork boots(those accordion things) on a Husqvanra dirt bike that had leaky seal syndrome. That cured it. They might look too retro on a GS, but with boots, a new set of seals should last the life of the bike.

Kerry, i just sent you 2 photos of my 2001 fork seals.  I ran out to the parking lot like you so often do   Hope they help.

Quote from: Ed_in_AzI put fork boots(those accordion things) on a Husqvanra dirt bike that had leaky seal syndrome. That cured it. They might look too retro on a GS, but with boots, a new set of seals should last the life of the bike.

They make neoprene ones that fit it tight like a wet suit... might help, however I dont see it actually doing anything for seal life, unless your fork tubes get pits from rock impacts and that makes it leak. Dry and wear on seals wont be affected at all... Oh it leaking oil... you wont see...  :lol:  That's how it will work.
Cool.
Srinath.

Quote from: Stephen072774Kerry, i just sent you 2 photos of my 2001 fork seals.  I ran out to the parking lot like you so often do   Hope they help.

Cool!  Mind if I host 'em & post 'em?





I'm a little concerned about the wide, shallow grooves on the outsides on the lower fork tubes.  Are the fork protectors shaped to clip in there somehow?  As you can see, the pre-2001 forks don't have that:



PS - Stephen, you wouldn't be 29 would you?  Turning 30 in a couple of weeks?  

Quote from: Kerry

Quote from: Stephen072774Kerry, i just sent you 2 photos of my 2001 fork seals.  I ran out to the parking lot like you so often do   Hope they help.

Cool!  Mind if I host 'em & post 'em? (not at all )

I'm a little concerned about the wide, shallow grooves on the outsides on the lower fork tubes.  Are the fork protectors shaped to clip in there somehow?  As you can see, the pre-2001 forks don't have that:


Yes, the protectors are shaped to fit in the slots on the outside of the tubes.  It appears to keep them from rotating around the tube.  I tried to slide it off (up), but I couldn't.  I suspect there is another groove that is around the tube keeping it from coming off, but I don't know.  If you filed off the tab on the protector you could probably glue them with something. :dunno:   Let me know if you want me to try anything else.

Interesting....

Well, I may have to forego the OEM protectors then.  I could (possibly) fab something (ugly) from scratch as easily as filing down the Suzuki units.

Unfortunately, I'm not very inclined to do either.... :dunno:

Thanks for the pics and info, Stephen!  

Couldn't you slit them in the back and apply them with double-stick trim tape?  Or, cutting them out of a piece of mudflap material, and using a fancy hose clamp is another possibility.

It seems like I've seen a set of stainless ones somewhere, but I can't recall exactly where.

Fork boots are a good solution, provided you find a set that fits properly.  Daystar manufactures them out of urethane, and I think they double as off-road vehicle shock shaft covers.  Cosmetically, they're not street bike caliber.  I tried a couple of different sets from them for a CM250 and was disappointed.