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fork replacement (oem or other)

Discussion in 'XJ Modifications' started by portablejohn, Sep 4, 2009.

  1. portablejohn

    portablejohn New Member

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    Hi All,
    I'm a new member, and I'm going to put my '82 xj650rj back on the road. When I put it away, it had a strange clunk in the front end. I had it all the way apart (down to disassembling the forks), and couldn't really find anything. The only thing that looked worn was the inner fork tubes, and possibly the inside of the outer tubes. It seems to ride ok. The clunk is most noticeable when riding at a very low speed, over a square edged bump, like between the street and the end of the driveway. Sounds almost exactly like my headlight is loose, which it isn't. I did have it totally apart, and adjusted and checked everything as I reassembled it. My only guess it is something inside the fork.
    Which brings me to my question: Do I replace it with oem parts, or is there a better (and cheaper) fix? Changing fork legs seems like it would involve new brakes, wheel and fender. Any input would be appreciated!


    John
     
    portablejohn, Sep 4, 2009
    #1
  2. switch263

    switch263 Member

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    You could always try to find a complete front end to replace yours with, but finding a good, straight one is sometimes a problem. I'm about to be putting a 93 katana front end on my 81 xj750rh.
     
    switch263, Sep 5, 2009
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  3. assassinx1

    assassinx1 Member

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    i have two forks for an 82 xj 650 with new seals its is a single caliper set up on the left side. if i can work for you pm i will give you a deal
     
    assassinx1, Sep 10, 2009
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  4. switch263

    switch263 Member

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    I've got a whole front end from my 81 750 if it would fit, wheel, brakes and all
     
    switch263, Sep 28, 2009
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  5. lostboy

    lostboy Well-Known Member

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    Check the head set bearings for free play. Put the bike on the center stand and have someone push down on the back of the bike to get the frount wheel of the ground. Then try to move the forks back and forth and feel for any movement. Adjust the lock nuts at the top of the fork clamps.
     
    lostboy, Sep 28, 2009
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  6. Robert

    Robert Active Member

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    I'll also suggest you check your head bearings...
    Pull the stem apart and inspect the bearing races, they tend to have grooves worn in them, necessitating replacement.

    OEM is a very good investment but aftermarket has some very good stuff too, usually at half the price. Contact our resident parts guru Chacal for benefits and hang-ups between OEM balls and roller bearings.
     
    Robert, Sep 29, 2009
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