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fork questions

Discussion in 'XJ Technical Chat' started by midnightmaxim13, Jul 31, 2009.

  1. midnightmaxim13

    midnightmaxim13 Member

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    this is all new to me as this is my first bike, i was wondering how do you go about testing your fork seals and replace them if necessary. when i roll my bike forward slightly and hit the front brake it dips down a good 4 inches, is that normal? also as this bike is near 30 years old and i have no idea how long its been since they've been replaced it seems like a good idea, right?
     
    midnightmaxim13, Jul 31, 2009
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  2. BlackMax

    BlackMax Member

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    If they don't leak they should be ok but the oil should be changed as it does become contaminated over time affecting performance.
     
    BlackMax, Jul 31, 2009
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  3. bigfitz52

    bigfitz52 Well-Known Member Premium Member

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    5 bucks says there is probably nothing resembling oil in those forks. Mud maybe, not oil.

    Change the fork oil. Then see if they suddenly begin leaking; if they do, rebuild them. It's not difficult, just a PIA.

    Also, you don't say how many miles are on the bike; we know how old it is. The SPRINGS tend to "sack" over time and use, taking a set shorter than their original length. Progressive Suspension makes aftermarket replacement fork springs that are better than the originals, and generally cost less than $100. They will make a marked improvement in your front end, believe me. (chacal carries them.)
     
    bigfitz52, Jul 31, 2009
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  4. railtrolley

    railtrolley Member

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    If you are wanting to test your fork seals, you will be looking for leaks. Try compressing the forks and see if a thin round black ring of oil is left on the fork sliders. If so, your seals are leaking and need replacement.

    From how far your forks sag when you hit the brakes, looks like a rebuild is due. Your old springs need replacing, maybe the bushings too, if there is any play in the fork tubes and sliders. Our vendor, Chacal, has all the parts. I just rebuilt my forks, and the difference is profound.

    You will need a service manual, as there can be quite a few parts inside, and you want them to go back in the correct order.
     
    railtrolley, Jul 31, 2009
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  5. midnightmaxim13

    midnightmaxim13 Member

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    yea my bikes got 22,xxx miles on it and i have no idea when they were last changed so bigfitz is probably right about there nothin in there even resembling oil lol is there like a fork rebuild kit i can get that just has all that stuff in it instead of having to buy all of it part by part
     
    midnightmaxim13, Jul 31, 2009
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