A question about fork seals

[jimboreeno]

OK..I have read as many threads on replacing fork seals as I could find and I still have a question.
I replaced mine and had a little leakage the first time I took her out. It seems to have diminshed and perhaps stopped completely. (The air pressure is remaining constant but I am getting a faint ring on the tube) Is this normal? Do the seals perhaps have to "seat"?

Also, the entire front seems to have more travel. What air pressure do you guys run in the front ?

[lsippell]

The XJ owners manual specifies 5.7 psi as the standard air preasure with that also being its minimun pressure. A maximum is 17 psi.
I run 10 to 12 in mine with the X1 fairing on it.

louis

[jimboreeno]

I tave quite a bit of travel @ 17psi. I wonder if there is someting I could have screwed up in the reassembly?

I figured since I didn't have any parts left over I MUST have done it right!!

[JWSanders]

I run mine at around 15psi, too. Still get a lot of fork dive.

Been meaning to dump out the old oil and change it to see if it helps.

[prometheus578]

Is it spring, yet?"

You've got 25 year old springs in that machine, there's part o' the problem. And yes, fork oil breaks down over time and with use, so there's the other part. Also... you could stand to lose a few pounds, as well.
Did the seals on my XS850 yesterday. Had left the manual at home, but in the suspension section tells how to measure the fork springs and see if they're still springy enough or should be replaced. Progressive makes good replacements. (I didn't have the manual, I'm giving the bike to my brother, I really didn't care)
Ok, I do... But I bought new tires, all new wheel bearings, new exhaust, rebuilt the engine, painted it nicely...
"YOU'LL take it and LIKE it... if you know what's good fer ya"

[prometheus578]

"The oily bird catches the worm"

You might also consider playing with the oil. Go up from 10w to 15 w. Or mix it 50/50 to give 12.5w. (Have seen it done)

[jimboreeno]

Yeah, I wondered about the spring measurement ...but it is exactly what the manual says it should be. But I am still wondering if they have the spring they need. I put in 10w oil and it was certainly lighter than the sludge that came out! I got a great ride in today and it seemed that the seals are sealed indeed. No more rings onthe tubes.
Well you were right about the "few pounds" I have a 1/2 marathon in March and an 8 hour adventure race the first part of April....no wonder those springs are screaming with my fat a$$ on em!

[GNEPIG]

.. i have the progressive springs in the front on my special, i use 10w oil at the specified capacity in the book and i run 0 psi air pressure.. the bike handles pretty sweet with these settings, i am 5' 11" and weigh 210 lbs
.. pressures, oil weights and how much oil to put in are all a matter of preference. the squishier the shocks, the more comfortable the ride. the harder the shocks feel (to a point) the better the handling in the corners
.. progressive springs cost about $65 bucks plus the two peices of 31/2" long pvc pipe