fork seals

[doghouse]

1980 xs 1100 looking for any info and parts needed to rebuld leaking front forks. Just purchased bike last week. The licenes plate says 97. I went though the carbs. fri night, just went for a easy spin. Seems like a soild bike. just not ready to open it up just yet. This site has a lot of info. But i could not find much on any tricks or parts needed on fork seals. Thanks Joe

[TopCatGr58]

Hey DogHouse,

Welcome, glad you've taken the time to peruse the info, like you said, there's lots here! As for the Fork Seals, although there are aftermarket ones, most folks agree that the OEM's from Yamaha are of better quality and fit, and so won't leak many years down the road.

The Links section I believe has info on the Official Yamaha web site where you can look up the parts in the microfiche, and have that info handy when you go to the dealer, that way you'll know if the young punk behind the counter looked up the right part!!

Also, recommended to get a repair manual!
T.C.

PS, you'll want to edit your profile or signature to list what Model of 80XS11 you have, Standard or Special, makes a difference sometimes with parts as well!

[doghouse]

hey top cat, What I have is a 80XS1100SG After I posted the thread I found many other theads on the topic seal. Looks like if I can get the lower section or bolt out before I loose the spring psi. The next issue will be to remove the seal, is the oil seal the only part I should need. If I can I like to have all parts on hand when I disasemble. Thanks Joe

[TopCatGr58]

Hey Joe,

You'll need the new seals, Fork Oil, and locktite for the allen bolt at the end of the fork. May also need to fabricate that special fork tool to be able to hold the damper in place while you both loosen and then retighten it! Make sure it's clean and dry before putting that bolt into the damper!

An Xsive recently posted about needing some spacers, but there should already be some in there, and you should be able to reuse them. The seals are the only parts that make contact with the upper tubes! Check the condition of your dust caps, might need to replace them if they are cracking and such!?
T.C.

PS, depending on how the front end feels, you may also want to splurge for some new Progressive Springs, especially if you're running full touring rig, fairing and plan on riding 2 up!