Thank you Tom. I looked everywhere for a video addressing how to service standard damper forks, especially showing which way the seal goes. There's not much on the Internet and this is the only one with clear instructions.
Thank you for the time you took to make a video that is extremely well thought out. Very concise and easy to understand. I didn't understand the procedure to remove the socket head cap screw out of the bottom of the fork until I stumbled onto your video. Again thank you!!!
Hi! Your video is so informative, detailed and helpful that you deserve all my respect. Thanks so much. I know how to change the fork seals but your video is going beyond. By the way ¡What a great bike you have at your back! Again: Thanks.
Tom, THANK YOU. !! . After severe M.V.A. in '99 that confined me to my wheelchair for 3 + years forced me into learning to walk/think/function again..I never lost hope to ride on 2 wheels again. Im buying my '85- v45 magna tomorrow or next couple days. Your "front fork seal" replacement video has been extremely helpful for getting $200.00 ( off $2000.00 asking, due to forks work) off purchase price. Not to mention the much needed knowledge of correct procedures for this project. Thanks Tom.!!
This helped explain the fork assembly/seal removal a little more for me as I'm doing my Honda cm450 fork seals with no previous experience. THANK you for making a clean cut video and explaining what you have!
Fine video. I had to watch with no sound but found the presenter to be dynamic, interesting, and informative. Good camera work and editing. Real nice. Was a good refresher for rebuilding my ZG1000 forks.
You mentioned using the freezer for the ease of dust seal seating. My dust seal won't seal far enough for the ring. The fork seal driver tool is damaging the fork seal. Any suggestions and the Stockton seal driver busted and bent. What size is your pcv pipe?
This Video is really helpful, That fork leg is exactly like a #1986YamahaTT225 I'm glad you showed those Two Teflon bushings and that Washer. Great Great explanation
Hi Tom! Your video was the best I could find so far. Thank you so much. Now my 2000 VFR has everything new in the forks. It seems that my bike just got a new life. Sadly the season back here in Finland is only 7 months. All the best to you!
I have this job to do shortly and your video has been very informative and very useful for a jo I have never done before. well done that man Cheers ALAN
Excellent video just watched this as I'm attempting the seals on my Cb500s by far the most informative to give me the confidence to takle doing my seals...
Great video, it's very well structured and I know I learned something. I seem to have a cracked/corroded dust cap on my 85' Suzuki GS550L, it's my first bike, and she rides fine; including the suspension, I think. How much of a priority would it be to get that replaced, being I have other work to have done, like the carburetor.
Tom, good video, From experience , sometimes it is very difficult to undo the lower allen key bolts, I like to try and crack the loose while still under tension before removing forks from the bike. Also a mention that be very careful to not cross thread the upper screw caps as they have a very fine thread.
Great video. One question, what should I check when the fork locks up when bottom cap screw is fitted. The damper assembly doesn't seem to want to come through the bottom of the upper fork (stanchion). I have not changed any of these components. Bike is an XJ600n.
I have a drive way full of bikes I bought each family member through the last 50 years; and ended up with each of them back when they could get them running again; a new guy moved in across the street and cannot get that steel spacer tube pressed back inside; after installing the spring and washer. I do not remember ever having the same issue when changing out different length front fork tubes to adjust handling / cornering; but it has been 1 1/2 to over 2 decades since I have done this task. Any Idea why he is having this problem; I gave him four different shop service manuals for various bikes; but figured the shop service manuals I had for my track bike; a 2009 Buell 1125R to get a general idea. His steel tubes like the one you put in during this video; is a good 8 - 10" long, and no matter how hard or how big of a guy tries; it still sticks out a good 4 - 6", and there is no chance of putting the top cap nut on it; something isn't right; however, I have never owned a 2001 Yamaha V-Star 650cc bike before. Addendum: It has been since 1986 when I replaced my front tube's with 4" over forks on my 1st new HD 1100cc Sportster Custom while stationed in Germany; and 15 years since I put 2" over front fork tube on my second new 1999 HD Softail Night Train, ( Which I still ride today ), when not toting around ole girl on a 2011 HD Road Glide Ultra. Any insights would be appreciated; the good new story is; I told him; it is only difficult the first time .. lol, like most every thing.
Damn, I absolutely love your video ! Nice and calm, and everything seems professional. That is also very helpful for me since my one of my forks is just spilling oil all over the fairings when I ride :/ Thank you :D
You are my new go-to guy. You have a very calming manner in your videos which make them quite soothing to watch. Have you any videos where you lose your shit?
Hahaha, I just saw this comment - you really made me laugh. No, so far I haven't lost it on any of my videos, but I have while doing some of my own work. I'll try to pick a subject that will force me to flip out and throw tools around the shop. Have a good one and thanks for making me laugh.
Great video. My problem is that the inside of the fork is turning while i turn the allen head bolt at the bottom with my ratchet. i m hoping that a friends electric impact wrench will undo it.
My motorcycle has an oil leak on left side. Do I just buy the fork seal to replace it or do I have to buy whole such as dust seal, oil seal stopper, oil seal and oil seal retainer?
Much obliged. I changed the seals in a set of forks in a '78 KZ650 many years ago, still have the bike, and need to do it again. In fact, I have two sets one on the original bike I'm putting back on the road and another from a parts bike. The seals are cheap enough and will give me some practice. I didn't remember it being all that difficult and the shop wants $150 just for the labor.
been told and makes sense to just crack the bolt before fork removal makes life easier I'll be doing my fork springs and oil as soon as I get the kit can't wait
You have convinced me to do it myself on my Suzuki 1200 Bandit (GSF). The right ordre at the end is (it's a question) : - you tight the bottom bolt - you add the fork oil by the top - you pump several times for the oil to get down - you close the fork by tightening the top big bolt (where you manage the smooth/hard of your fork) ? Am I right ?
I'm not familiar with your Bandit, but you pretty much have it right. I don't have to do any pumping after I add the oil since it isn't like a brake system with air trapped. Also, some forks have an adjustment that's part of the top nut, but not all of them. The ones with dampening or rebound control do. Best of luck!
Nice video thanks . Couple ask ? . Can you tell me is this video usefull for old bike such as shadow vt500c and where is manual number 21 for oil fork filling ?.
Other videos on UA-cam show them loosening the allen bolt (not removing, just loosening) BEFORE removing the Fork Tube Cap. This seems like an easier method. Is there any reason not to do it this way? Thanks for the very informative video!
That's a personal preference and either way is fine. Oftentimes that Allen bolt is too tight and the fork tube will just spin when you try to loosen it up. Using the air impact gun just zips it off and prevents anguish and frustration.
The inner seal, or oil seal, must be replaced. This is the ring the I drove into place with the PVC. This seal is what eventually fails and allows fork oil to get by. The outer seal is just to keep dust and water out.
Sliding the seals on with shiny forks is a perfect world. What if your forks have nicks from 30 years of road travel??? What do you recommend?? I installed new seals on my Gpz 750 yesterday and had to take them back out as they were leaking and this was when the bike was on the centerstand as it is not yet on the road.. I did not separate the forks but used a seal puller to remove the old seals. I used some ATHENA seals and one got nicked pretty good and was leaking like a sieve, the other not too bad but was weeping. I was thinking about using a piece of pop bottle and making a sleeve that fits the fork and sliding the seal down the tube on the sleeve, then popping into place when I get to the lower "un-nicked" part of my tubes thus avoiding any damage to the seal. The old seals never leaked but after 13 years i wanted to swap them out for new ones, to be sure.
So it sounds like your fork tubes are pitted. I would take some good chrome polish and spread it all the way around the tube, all the way up. Then really work it in good with a piece of aluminum foil. Yes - you heard me right, use aluminum foil. Rub hard so that it takes down the little edges caused by the pitting. Then buff it out carefully and see how it feels after you're done. If you do this a couple of times, it should smooth out those rough areas to the point where they won't nick your new seals again.As far as seals go, I'm not that keen on aftermarket ones. I only use OEM and have had great luck.Hope you have better luck the second time around.Tom
Wow ! Your videos are truly the best ! Just curious ,I'm doing the forks on a 1982 cb900f. Do you have and tricks on getting the forks to slide through those rubber turn signal mounts? Keep up the great work, We really appreciate your detail videos !
Yes wipe a little WD-40 or even some windex on the rubber before sliding the tube through and you should have no trouble. Glad you like the videos - thanks!
There are various sets for sale on Amazon that are worth checking out. Some are junk and will break during the first use. Find a good quality set that include a larger one needed for the snap ring in these forks. The ones with a 90 degree bend on them are better than what I used in the video, as long as they're solid and well made. The tips can break off of the cheap ones if the snap ring is stuck from rust.
Great video, actually about to replace the seals on my 82 V45 sabre. I'm positive the forks are the same so wondering if you had a link to the seal kit you used? Particularly the circlips, none of the kits I've found include them Thanks!
I have an 86 VFR750F. Same basic rebuild procedure. When you slide the forks back into the triples, the air holes near the tops of the tubes will align with the channels in the air joints. It won't take much air to get them to pressure and use a hand pump to do it. Don't use compressed air or you could blow out the seals.
I always use an air impact gun with a socketed allen wrench. Works every time. I'm sure you could do the same with an electric impact gun as well. It spins so fast that the bolt can break free. Doing it by hand will ust make it spin as you described.
Sean - maybe there are some air bubbles trapped in there. If you take off the fork cap and carefully pump up and down (just not too far or fork oil will come out there and top) that might solve your problem. This is something I should have mentioned in the video.
@@tomscyclerecycling8242 Hi Tom I have my forks apart and checked components for replacement. You mentioned cleaning with dish washing detergent and then use a good solvent. Is brake cleaner okay? also is this all parts of the fork or should I avoid some areas?
@@adamdowning9444 Hi Adam. Brakleen is fine, but just inside the fork leg. It will attack the paint on the outside, so just use hot water and Dawn (or something similar) on the outside and you'll be good to go.
Me again Tom! 😂 Sorry to bother you again, just curious if I have a problem or not. When removing the fork pipe I had one of the oil lock pieces remain in the bottom case and one that came out (o-ring was damaged so replacing). Was wondering if just dropping the lock piece that came out back in when I rebuild it will be okay….?
@@adamdowning9444 Hi Adam. It's not uncommon for an oil lock piece to stay stuck in the bottom of a fork leg. If you slide a wooden dowel down and into the piece, you can probably loosen it up. Otherwise, just clean out the leg the best you can and reassemble. It will be fine.
I'm trying to replace the dust seal and the seal from my sabre v65 but the little holes from the circlips are gone from all the rust any idea how to take em out some people in the v4 forum say to drill the forks but I don't know
That's a tough one. You need to soak the circlips with penetrating oil for a few days and then carefully try to loosen them from their grooves by using a small punch and hammer by tapping them from the top in several areas all the way around. Once you know they've been broken free, you need to somehow get behind the clips to pry them out. The only way I've been successful is to use a Dremel with a special metal cutting bit. You cut into the metal(on the inside of the fork lower just above the circlip groove) up above the clip just enough to expose the backside so that you can get in there with a pick to pry it out. Be very careful not to score the fork tubes - wrap them in duct tape to be on the safe side. If you get the clips out, you'll be in good shape. The new circlips will work just fine.
Hi Hans. It's very similar, although the 1100F has the anti-dive units to deal with. But the same basic components needed for fork seal replacement are the same. I've done many 1100F forks, so if you run into a problem, just contact me through my web site, www.tomscyclerecycling.com.
@@tomscyclerecycling8242 thanks for reply...does the installation direction for backup is same for all forks...coz i saw dave moss tuning video..that was a usd fork and he kept the flat side up
Got my VF750F in boxes and trying to rebuild. I discoveres that both fork legs are of a different length? Do you know on which side they go? Can't figure it out... :-/
The left side fork has an anti-dive unit on it and there should be a TRAC sticker down near the bottom as well. The right fork leg is plain and looks like a normal one. The differences will be obvious when you look closely. Good luck!
Thanks! Should made my problem more clearly. The outside is not a problem, is meant the inner forkleg, the part that is clamped in the yoke and the handles are mounted on.
Ah, the fork tubes. It's been a while since I had mine apart so I can't remember. I highly recommend joining the VFR discussion group here: www.vfrdiscussion.com/forum/index.php/forum/5-earlier-vfrs/Lots of great people here who can help with your restoration and I bet you'll have your answer in no time.
Yes. Especially if you don't heat the Allen bolt before removing it next time, and if you try to get the bolt out without first heating it, you'll just tear it up.
Perhaps not the best idea. the "W" in motor oil multi-viscosity labels (e.g. "10W-30) refers to "Winter," meaning that 10W-whatever will roughly approximate a 10-weight oil in low temperatures (the oils are tested at either 32 deg. F/0 deg. C or 0 deg. F/-17 deg. C, don't recall which). This is for enhanced lubricity during really cold starts, which is torturous on crank and camshaft bearings. So, multi-viscosity motor oils are not likely to behave predictably in a fork. Shop around on ebay/amazon, should be able to find a decent brand(can't go wrong with factory!) fork oil for little to no more dollars than a comparable, high-quality synthetic oil (and I don't mean crazy shit like Royal Purple). Food for thought... ride safe! Idiots everywhere yo!
I know, I know...I'm very late putting out the next couple of videos. Getting my video guy to come and shoot these has been a challenge lately. He's my son-in-law and is very busy. But I promise that more are coming.Thanks Patrick!Tom
I know, I know. I have at least new ones all worked out in my head, but I need a new video man to shoot and edit them. It's hard to find out who will do something like these at a low cost. I promise that there will be more!
I am changing my fork oil with new oil. My manual says 10w20 but I can't seem to find that anywhere? This is the last thing I need before I put my forks all back on my bike. Anyone have any suggestions?
Teague Jelinek I just did a oil swap on my Grom the other but instead of the 5w I put in 10w but it is actual fork oil though. So I suggest going to some sort of local dealer and see what w oil they have in stock, if it’s a big bike I would suggest a 10w or 15w oil. I did a 10 because she was bottoming out from doing wheelies sometimes did the thicker oil and ride quality is so much better now. Hope this helps you out!!!
@@corndogg_4209 thanks man, I went to a Kawasaki dealer and found some. Now I'm back on the road 👍 I was just kinda freakin out cause Ive never changed my fork oil before and didn't know where to find some (I was checking AutoZone and stores like that haha..)
Well presented. I have only 1 issue here. You never ever put locktite on that bottom screw. Why you may ask? Because it's like breaking it off in mama's back door. The next guy that comes to do this is gonna curse you to no end. You do not need it or any other form of adhesion assistance. No Teflon tape or ANY foreign substance should ever be used inside the oil compartment. AND it forces you to delay putting it back together, who wants THAT problem? Not me. Just replace the copper washer, torque to spec and you are 100% good to go.
You may be right, but all of the Honda factory service manuals that I have (at least 5) specify using loctite on that bolt. Personally, I don't think it's needed either, if torqued to spec.
@@tomscyclerecycling8242 Point taken. A locking type washer behind the head would do nicely to keep it in place. Think I will try that just in case. I am doing this project tomorrow. I have purple lock tite and may just use it. It is lighter than Blue and I can wait overnight to put it back in. No hurry here. Bike's been sitting for nearly 2 years. Carbs are done and she idles and runs up nicely. But that front end is calling my name, especially after the death wobble hit me at 75 mph. Sure got my attention fast, only had 1 hand on the bars.
Thank you Tom. I looked everywhere for a video addressing how to service standard damper forks, especially showing which way the seal goes. There's not much on the Internet and this is the only one with clear instructions.
Thank you for the time you took to make a video that is extremely well thought out. Very concise and easy to understand. I didn't understand the procedure to remove the socket head cap screw out of the bottom of the fork until I stumbled onto your video. Again thank you!!!
You're very welcome! It's always great to receive such nice feedback and I'm glad that my video was helpful.Tom
Hi! Your video is so informative, detailed and helpful that you deserve all my respect. Thanks so much. I know how to change the fork seals but your video is going beyond. By the way ¡What a great bike you have at your back! Again: Thanks.
Tom, THANK YOU. !! .
After severe M.V.A. in '99 that confined me to my wheelchair for 3 + years forced me into learning to walk/think/function again..I never lost hope to ride on 2 wheels again.
Im buying my '85- v45 magna tomorrow or next couple days.
Your "front fork seal" replacement video has been extremely helpful for getting $200.00 ( off $2000.00 asking, due to forks work) off purchase price. Not to mention the much needed knowledge of correct procedures for this project.
Thanks Tom.!!
My pleasure, and glad you'll be back on 2 wheels soon. Bet of luck with you new ride, and enjoy!
Great video. I appreciated your teaching method; straight-forward, knowledgeable, clear and concise. Cheers.
Thanks very much - your kind words mean a lot.
Thanks a lot for the upload! I almost gave up and then saw this pvc pipe method and it worked perfectly.
Awesome - glad to hear it!
This helped explain the fork assembly/seal removal a little more for me as I'm doing my Honda cm450 fork seals with no previous experience. THANK you for making a clean cut video and explaining what you have!
I'm glad it helped - it's my pleasure!
Thanks for showing us all of the hands on tasks in detail. That is exactly what I needed.
This video is bloody brilliant. I had no problem changing my fork seals and oil on my 2014 Yamaha Bolt following this video. Keep up the good work.
I just completed my first fork rebuild. Your video was very helpful. Thank you for taking the time to help us out.
Awesome! Glad you found it helpful. I'm doing another set of forks as we speak!
I followed your video last year. It is such a perfect video, thanks!
Thanks, Chris - you just made my day! Glad that you found it helpful.
Fine video. I had to watch with no sound but found the presenter to be dynamic, interesting, and informative. Good camera work and editing. Real nice. Was a good refresher for rebuilding my ZG1000 forks.
You mentioned using the freezer for the ease of dust seal seating. My dust seal won't seal far enough for the ring. The fork seal driver tool is damaging the fork seal. Any suggestions and the Stockton seal driver busted and bent. What size is your pcv pipe?
I am getting ready to do this on my Magna VF750. It will be my first time, and thanks to you I know I will have no problem doing it. Thanks.
Excellent video. I needed the specific step-by-step process and you did it very well. Thank you
Looks simple. I like it. Nothing like a good instructor
You made that upper bush seem so easy. I'm doing it on my vstar and it's a stubborn mule. The seal itself is way easier to install
This Video is really helpful, That fork leg is exactly like a #1986YamahaTT225 I'm glad you showed those Two Teflon bushings and that Washer. Great Great explanation
Now this is how you make a tutorial video!! Great job, thank you so much!
Thanks Mike - I'm glad you found it helpful.
Hi Tom! Your video was the best I could find so far. Thank you so much. Now my 2000 VFR has everything new in the forks. It seems that my bike just got a new life. Sadly the season back here in Finland is only 7 months. All the best to you!
Just about to start my first fork rebuild. Thanks for sharing all the knowledge!
Thanks for taking the time to make a great video.
Thank you, By far the best how to video for fork seals i have found
Great video, very clear and helpful! Would love to see more, and show off some of those bikes!
A very easy listen of how to do seals. Excellent
Thanks!
Thank you so much for explaining this procedure like you did. Sure helped me out. The best video out there I found so far.
Thanks! The seal in the freezer trick worked great! There was a very noticeable difference between leg 1 and leg 2!
Jason Ewert seal in the freezer trick? what does that do?
It shrinks the seal so it will slide into the fork leg more easily (with less force/ less potential for damage)
I have this job to do shortly and your video has been very informative and very useful for a jo I have never done before. well done that man Cheers ALAN
Excellent Tutorial Mr. Tom. I already subscribed to your channel and I hope to continue watching important videos like this. Thank you.
You're very welcome Wilmer - thanks!
The best and most helpfull video, that I found concderning this work. Thank you very much.
Systematic.... Nicely presented Step wise with stages!! Appreciate dude.
Great video. Helped me figure out how things work inside there. Thanks for posting
Great video, I'll be rebuilding my 2015 vstrom 650 forks this next week. Least I have an understanding of what to do after watching this
Excellent video just watched this as I'm attempting the seals on my Cb500s by far the most informative to give me the confidence to takle doing my seals...
I did my CB500 a while back, quite straight forward. I also did my Virago a week or so ago and did a vid.
Great video, it's very well structured and I know I learned something.
I seem to have a cracked/corroded dust cap on my 85' Suzuki GS550L, it's my first bike, and she rides fine; including the suspension, I think. How much of a priority would it be to get that replaced, being I have other work to have done, like the carburetor.
Tom, good video, From experience , sometimes it is very difficult to undo the lower allen key bolts, I like to try and crack the loose while still under tension before removing forks from the bike. Also a mention that be very careful to not cross thread the upper screw caps as they have a very fine thread.
Wow. This video is just what I needed. Thanks for your time and effort.
Hi Tom, do you have a video for 1975 kawasaki z1 900 fork seal replacement? Thank you
Thanks..very easy to follow and detailed information...much appreciated!!
Great video.
One question, what should I check when the fork locks up when bottom cap screw is fitted. The damper assembly doesn't seem to want to come through the bottom of the upper fork (stanchion). I have not changed any of these components.
Bike is an XJ600n.
the quality of this video is amaizing!
Excellent video, thank you for sharing your knowledge!
I have a drive way full of bikes I bought each family member through the last 50 years; and ended up with each of them back when they could get them running again; a new guy moved in across the street and cannot get that steel spacer tube pressed back inside; after installing the spring and washer. I do not remember ever having the same issue when changing out different length front fork tubes to adjust handling / cornering; but it has been 1 1/2 to over 2 decades since I have done this task.
Any Idea why he is having this problem; I gave him four different shop service manuals for various bikes; but figured the shop service manuals I had for my track bike; a 2009 Buell 1125R to get a general idea. His steel tubes like the one you put in during this video; is a good 8 - 10" long, and no matter how hard or how big of a guy tries; it still sticks out a good 4 - 6", and there is no chance of putting the top cap nut on it; something isn't right; however, I have never owned a 2001 Yamaha V-Star 650cc bike before.
Addendum: It has been since 1986 when I replaced my front tube's with 4" over forks on my 1st new HD 1100cc Sportster Custom while stationed in Germany; and 15 years since I put 2" over front fork tube on my second new 1999 HD Softail Night Train, ( Which I still ride today ), when not toting around ole girl on a 2011 HD Road Glide Ultra.
Any insights would be appreciated; the good new story is; I told him; it is only difficult the first time .. lol, like most every thing.
Excellent video! I had a 1986 VF500F. I am currently riding a 1993 CBR600F2
Damn, I absolutely love your video ! Nice and calm, and everything seems professional. That is also very helpful for me since my one of my forks is just spilling oil all over the fairings when I ride :/ Thank you :D
Glad to help!
You are my new go-to guy. You have a very calming manner in your videos which make them quite soothing to watch. Have you any videos where you lose your shit?
Hahaha, I just saw this comment - you really made me laugh. No, so far I haven't lost it on any of my videos, but I have while doing some of my own work. I'll try to pick a subject that will force me to flip out and throw tools around the shop. Have a good one and thanks for making me laugh.
Great video. My problem is that the inside of the fork is turning while i turn the allen head bolt at the bottom with my ratchet. i m hoping that a friends electric impact wrench will undo it.
My motorcycle has an oil leak on left side. Do I just buy the fork seal to replace it or do I have to buy whole such as dust seal, oil seal stopper, oil seal and oil seal retainer?
Much obliged. I changed the seals in a set of forks in a '78 KZ650 many years ago, still have the bike, and need to do it again. In fact, I have two sets one on the original bike I'm putting back on the road and another from a parts bike. The seals are cheap enough and will give me some practice. I didn't remember it being all that difficult and the shop wants $150 just for the labor.
been told and makes sense to just crack the bolt before fork removal makes life easier I'll be doing my fork springs and oil as soon as I get the kit can't wait
This is exactly the video I need to change out the seals in my 84 Nighthawk S. Thanks!
Thanks Tom, my 2000 FX650 is the same, this video is really good and helpful.
You have convinced me to do it myself on my Suzuki 1200 Bandit (GSF).
The right ordre at the end is (it's a question) :
- you tight the bottom bolt
- you add the fork oil by the top
- you pump several times for the oil to get down
- you close the fork by tightening the top big bolt (where you manage the smooth/hard of your fork) ?
Am I right ?
I'm not familiar with your Bandit, but you pretty much have it right. I don't have to do any pumping after I add the oil since it isn't like a brake system with air trapped. Also, some forks have an adjustment that's part of the top nut, but not all of them. The ones with dampening or rebound control do. Best of luck!
Nice video thanks . Couple ask ? . Can you tell me is this video usefull for old bike such as shadow vt500c and where is manual number 21 for oil fork filling ?.
Got to do my 1000F so this video was very useful - Thanks!
Did you get to the 70's fork seal video? I have a '75 Suzuki GT550 Triple with a leaky seal.
Other videos on UA-cam show them loosening the allen bolt (not removing, just loosening) BEFORE removing the Fork Tube Cap. This seems like an easier method. Is there any reason not to do it this way? Thanks for the very informative video!
That's a personal preference and either way is fine. Oftentimes that Allen bolt is too tight and the fork tube will just spin when you try to loosen it up. Using the air impact gun just zips it off and prevents anguish and frustration.
this was perfectly helpful, thanks so so much, best video out there
how did you pop the seal out of the outer gold tube my ducati forks am the same but they won't come out!?
Hello, please, how much oil do I pour into the front shock absorbers? honda xl600r (pd03) 1983 Thank you very much
Excellent Video Tom, Thank you for Sharing...
Very helpful!
Thank you for this intelligent well done video 👍
Thanks very much for your kind words!
Excellent video! Very concise information and presentation. Will be very useful on my leaky forks. '03 ex250f Ninja.
Is there such a thing as only replacing the outer seals? or does the whole system need to be refreshed mandatory?
The inner seal, or oil seal, must be replaced. This is the ring the I drove into place with the PVC. This seal is what eventually fails and allows fork oil to get by. The outer seal is just to keep dust and water out.
Sliding the seals on with shiny forks is a perfect world. What if your forks have nicks from 30 years of road travel??? What do you recommend?? I installed new seals on my Gpz 750 yesterday and had to take them back out as they were leaking and this was when the bike was on the centerstand as it is not yet on the road.. I did not separate the forks but used a seal puller to remove the old seals. I used some ATHENA seals and one got nicked pretty good and was leaking like a sieve, the other not too bad but was weeping. I was thinking about using a piece of pop bottle and making a sleeve that fits the fork and sliding the seal down the tube on the sleeve, then popping into place when I get to the lower "un-nicked" part of my tubes thus avoiding any damage to the seal. The old seals never leaked but after 13 years i wanted to swap them out for new ones, to be sure.
So it sounds like your fork tubes are pitted. I would take some good chrome polish and spread it all the way around the tube, all the way up. Then really work it in good with a piece of aluminum foil. Yes - you heard me right, use aluminum foil. Rub hard so that it takes down the little edges caused by the pitting. Then buff it out carefully and see how it feels after you're done. If you do this a couple of times, it should smooth out those rough areas to the point where they won't nick your new seals again.As far as seals go, I'm not that keen on aftermarket ones. I only use OEM and have had great luck.Hope you have better luck the second time around.Tom
+Tom's Cycle Recycling Thanx Tom, I'll definitely try it out.
+GPz84 you could also replace the stanchions if they are too far gone.
Alátét nem maradt ki a szimeringnél?
Wow ! Your videos are truly the best ! Just curious ,I'm doing the forks on a 1982 cb900f. Do you have and tricks on getting the forks to slide through those rubber turn signal mounts? Keep up the great work, We really appreciate your detail videos !
Yes wipe a little WD-40 or even some windex on the rubber before sliding the tube through and you should have no trouble. Glad you like the videos - thanks!
Any recommendation on where to get snap ring pliers? I'm working on an 04 Road Star.
There are various sets for sale on Amazon that are worth checking out. Some are junk and will break during the first use. Find a good quality set that include a larger one needed for the snap ring in these forks. The ones with a 90 degree bend on them are better than what I used in the video, as long as they're solid and well made. The tips can break off of the cheap ones if the snap ring is stuck from rust.
@@tomscyclerecycling8242 Thank you! I'll see if I can find a good set! Thank you for the quick reply!
Great job! Straight to the point. Thank you, Sir.
Great video, actually about to replace the seals on my 82 V45 sabre. I'm positive the forks are the same so wondering if you had a link to the seal kit you used? Particularly the circlips, none of the kits I've found include them
Thanks!
Excelente trabajo y muy profesional gracias por todas las indicaciones, me sirvió bastante
Will it be ok to just replace the seal without draining the oil? Or draining the oil is a must? 2016 fz 07 have some oil leaking on the left fork
You'll need to remove the fork and disassemble in order to replace the seal. So yes, you have to drain the oil.
Nice, but not sure I understand why you removed the fork tube cap and inner spring? The seal and dust seal are all you needed to change...
i had no bottom bushes on my xps 125 ct and the seal is still in lower tube. how do i remove the seal.
Is this replacement similar to do for Suzuki Intruder VL125 ?
What year is the bike? I'll look up the parts diagram.
mine have air also. anything special. have you done one 86 vfr 700
I have an 86 VFR750F. Same basic rebuild procedure. When you slide the forks back into the triples, the air holes near the tops of the tubes will align with the channels in the air joints. It won't take much air to get them to pressure and use a hand pump to do it. Don't use compressed air or you could blow out the seals.
Allen bolts in the bottom of forks just keep spinning. Any ideas would be more than appreciated
I always use an air impact gun with a socketed allen wrench. Works every time. I'm sure you could do the same with an electric impact gun as well. It spins so fast that the bolt can break free. Doing it by hand will ust make it spin as you described.
Tom's Cycle Recycling Thanks, I just got done replacing the oil seals on my 1988 Honda VTR250 Interceptor. Quite the job
I have a issue resealed 2004 V star fork and with new seals and correct fliud level one came out great 2 nd ended up spongy no difference in assembly?
Sean - maybe there are some air bubbles trapped in there. If you take off the fork cap and carefully pump up and down (just not too far or fork oil will come out there and top) that might solve your problem. This is something I should have mentioned in the video.
How similar are these forks to the CB900F2? I’m going to have a go soon…..
The 900F forks are very similar in design to the one I rebuilt in this video, so the rebuild procedure will be virtually identical.
@@tomscyclerecycling8242
Hi Tom I have my forks apart and checked components for replacement. You mentioned cleaning with dish washing detergent and then use a good solvent. Is brake cleaner okay? also is this all parts of the fork or should I avoid some areas?
@@adamdowning9444 Hi Adam. Brakleen is fine, but just inside the fork leg. It will attack the paint on the outside, so just use hot water and Dawn (or something similar) on the outside and you'll be good to go.
Me again Tom! 😂
Sorry to bother you again, just curious if I have a problem or not. When removing the fork pipe I had one of the oil lock pieces remain in the bottom case and one that came out (o-ring was damaged so replacing). Was wondering if just dropping the lock piece that came out back in when I rebuild it will be okay….?
@@adamdowning9444 Hi Adam. It's not uncommon for an oil lock piece to stay stuck in the bottom of a fork leg. If you slide a wooden dowel down and into the piece, you can probably loosen it up. Otherwise, just clean out the leg the best you can and reassemble. It will be fine.
And the oil???
I'm trying to replace the dust seal and the seal from my sabre v65 but the little holes from the circlips are gone from all the rust any idea how to take em out some people in the v4 forum say to drill the forks but I don't know
That's a tough one. You need to soak the circlips with penetrating oil for a few days and then carefully try to loosen them from their grooves by using a small punch and hammer by tapping them from the top in several areas all the way around. Once you know they've been broken free, you need to somehow get behind the clips to pry them out. The only way I've been successful is to use a Dremel with a special metal cutting bit. You cut into the metal(on the inside of the fork lower just above the circlip groove) up above the clip just enough to expose the backside so that you can get in there with a pick to pry it out. Be very careful not to score the fork tubes - wrap them in duct tape to be on the safe side. If you get the clips out, you'll be in good shape. The new circlips will work just fine.
Hi Tom, Hope all is well... Is this fork rebuild the same for a 1983 CB1100F?
Hi Hans. It's very similar, although the 1100F has the anti-dive units to deal with. But the same basic components needed for fork seal replacement are the same. I've done many 1100F forks, so if you run into a problem, just contact me through my web site, www.tomscyclerecycling.com.
how much fork oil goes in forks on 93 harley fatboy
Sir..what if i forgot to fit the backup ring..will it cause any damage??.its an usd fork btw
I would go back in and reinstall that. It serves a purpose in the design and your new seal may get damaged. Leaking is also a possibility.
@@tomscyclerecycling8242 thanks for reply...does the installation direction for backup is same for all forks...coz i saw dave moss tuning video..that was a usd fork and he kept the flat side up
Think you for helping. The Harley shop where I live said 350 to 400 to do what you have shown me so I am doing and now I can thinkyou
Got my VF750F in boxes and trying to rebuild. I discoveres that both fork legs are of a different length? Do you know on which side they go? Can't figure it out... :-/
The left side fork has an anti-dive unit on it and there should be a TRAC sticker down near the bottom as well. The right fork leg is plain and looks like a normal one. The differences will be obvious when you look closely. Good luck!
Thanks! Should made my problem more clearly. The outside is not a problem, is meant the inner forkleg, the part that is clamped in the yoke and the handles are mounted on.
Ah, the fork tubes. It's been a while since I had mine apart so I can't remember. I highly recommend joining the VFR discussion group here: www.vfrdiscussion.com/forum/index.php/forum/5-earlier-vfrs/Lots of great people here who can help with your restoration and I bet you'll have your answer in no time.
Sir can you Tell me what is the fork seal's size of Suzuki 250 volty tu plzzz i am waiting.
Yes. Especially if you don't heat the Allen bolt before removing it next time, and if you try to get the bolt out without first heating it, you'll just tear it up.
Can I use motor oil such as 10w... instead of the expensive 10w fork oil?
Perhaps not the best idea. the "W" in motor oil multi-viscosity labels (e.g. "10W-30) refers to "Winter," meaning that 10W-whatever will roughly approximate a 10-weight oil in low temperatures (the oils are tested at either 32 deg. F/0 deg. C or 0 deg. F/-17 deg. C, don't recall which). This is for enhanced lubricity during really cold starts, which is torturous on crank and camshaft bearings. So, multi-viscosity motor oils are not likely to behave predictably in a fork. Shop around on ebay/amazon, should be able to find a decent brand(can't go wrong with factory!) fork oil for little to no more dollars than a comparable, high-quality synthetic oil (and I don't mean crazy shit like Royal Purple). Food for thought... ride safe! Idiots everywhere yo!
Thank you for that explanation. Much appreciated.
dude your videos are awesome, but your last one is a year old. I'd love to see more!!
I know, I know...I'm very late putting out the next couple of videos. Getting my video guy to come and shoot these has been a challenge lately. He's my son-in-law and is very busy. But I promise that more are coming.Thanks Patrick!Tom
Great to hear, keep it up!!
I know, I know. I have at least new ones all worked out in my head, but I need a new video man to shoot and edit them. It's hard to find out who will do something like these at a low cost. I promise that there will be more!
Thanks for the Vid.... I will be working on my 84 Nighthawk 700 soon and this looks almost exactly like mine.
This video was so helpful! Thank you!
You're very welcome! Glad you liked it.
Perfectly done. Thank you
Thanks Tom, very inciteful
Good job, Tom! It's about time someone put tape around the fork tube!
Nice job Tom!
Thanks
Very helpful, thanks a lot!
You're very welcome and I'm glad it helped!
Thank you great video
What about fork oil inside how much
It depends on the size of your forks. Every model is different, so the best place to look is the genuine service manual for your bike.
I am changing my fork oil with new oil. My manual says 10w20 but I can't seem to find that anywhere? This is the last thing I need before I put my forks all back on my bike. Anyone have any suggestions?
Teague Jelinek I just did a oil swap on my Grom the other but instead of the 5w I put in 10w but it is actual fork oil though. So I suggest going to some sort of local dealer and see what w oil they have in stock, if it’s a big bike I would suggest a 10w or 15w oil. I did a 10 because she was bottoming out from doing wheelies sometimes did the thicker oil and ride quality is so much better now. Hope this helps you out!!!
@@corndogg_4209 thanks man, I went to a Kawasaki dealer and found some. Now I'm back on the road 👍 I was just kinda freakin out cause Ive never changed my fork oil before and didn't know where to find some (I was checking AutoZone and stores like that haha..)
Well presented. I have only 1 issue here. You never ever put locktite on that bottom screw. Why you may ask? Because it's like breaking it off in mama's back door. The next guy that comes to do this is gonna curse you to no end. You do not need it or any other form of adhesion assistance. No Teflon tape or ANY foreign substance should ever be used inside the oil compartment. AND it forces you to delay putting it back together, who wants THAT problem? Not me. Just replace the copper washer, torque to spec and you are 100% good to go.
You may be right, but all of the Honda factory service manuals that I have (at least 5) specify using loctite on that bolt. Personally, I don't think it's needed either, if torqued to spec.
@@tomscyclerecycling8242 Point taken. A locking type washer behind the head would do nicely to keep it in place. Think I will try that just in case. I am doing this project tomorrow. I have purple lock tite and may just use it. It is lighter than Blue and I can wait overnight to put it back in. No hurry here. Bike's been sitting for nearly 2 years. Carbs are done and she idles and runs up nicely. But that front end is calling my name, especially after the death wobble hit me at 75 mph. Sure got my attention fast, only had 1 hand on the bars.