Changing Fork Oil

[skids]

I hate to be Captain Bring-down, but my Venturer has the worst suspension in the front end when comparing with my 2 different 78E's. Yes, I changed oil to Silkolene 15W. I don't use air in the forks and maybe that is a big part if the problem. I did notice that the H's springs seems to be progressively wound; however, that seems to mean that it is too soft for the initial compression. I bottom-out the front forks on bumps and I have no problem with that at all with my 78E's.

[MPittma100]

Forl Oil

The forks that I have had apart for seal replacement/cleaning were really dirty inside. I do believe that all of them had never been apart before.

I was surprised as to how dirty they were after only 30+ years.

Mike

[MaximPhil]

Thanks for all the feed back. The forks were completely rebuilt when Addie was resurrected by BDF and TinMan905 back in 2010.
Yes progressive wound springs were in spec then. New seals.
I do not experience bottoming out just very soft, Manual says to replace fork oil at 6000 miles. I have 25 -30,000 miles since then. Old oil was dirty.
My short ride felt about the same as before so no worse off.
Phil

[bikerphil]

If you add a little extra oil it will firm things up a bit, that, and/or add a couple of spacers next time you have them apart. Maybe your fork brace is defective.

[MaximPhil]

If you add a little extra oil it will firm things up a bit, that, and/or add a couple of spacers next time you have them apart. Maybe your fork brace is defective.

Hi Phil,
Spacer idea sounds worth a try. Fork brace is doing just fine thank you still has the same old nuts and bolts which I will "upgrade" some day
(Inside joke; I purchased my fork brace from Phil)
Phil

[mrhammer2u]

Seems complicated to change fork oil and replace seals. Called my local dealer and they're asking $270 labor (3 hours) plus materials! Think I'll do a bit more research and make this a winter project

[bikerphil]

Usually only the first time it is difficult.

[cajun31]

they are not difficult

take your time and pay attention to what you are doing and all will go well. Cleaning them, replacing seals and fluids makes a big difference in the front end handling of the bike. Not miracles mind you but a noticeable difference.

[MarkD]

MrH2-- Did mine last winter, was fairly straightforward. There's a thread on here somewhere about it. Mine came out and went in easy-peasy, got seals from ebay. I used ATF for the fluid, as it's recommended by old school mechanics, and I've used it in MX bikes, as well.