Front fork Disassembly

[Greg57]

I am removing the front fork of my 86 Venture My problem is that I can't seem to get the air joints off so I can take of both sides of the fork individually. Any Suggestions? I have removed the C clip under the joint but it isn't budging.

[MiCarl]

The o-rings in the joints develop a tight relationship to the fork tube. Lube the fork tube above the joint (I prefer fork oil, but some use WD-40 or other lubricants). Hold the joint in one hand and twist the upper tube with the other to brake the o-rings free.

 

There are a couple rubber spacers between the joint and upper tree. They like to fall behind the radiator - best to pull them off before you lose them.

[86er]

 

I am trying to remove the forks from my "old 86" and move them to my "new 88". I've got every thing loose but am having the same problem with the air connection. I didn't see the C clip. Where is it and what is the best way to get it off?

 

I'm starting with the 86 so I can still ride until I'm ready for the swap.

(Also so that I will have an "Alabama Blueprint") [sorry Eck!]

 

[dingy]

Wire retainer is on lower side of air joint. More of a formed wire than a c-clip, but does same function. Snaps in a groove in the upper fork tube. It will be right next to air joint. Will look like a bump in tube. You need to find end of wire, then with a very small screwdriver, pop one end out of groove and it can be worked out of groove easily. It is easier to lower forks in tripple trees, then tap air joint upwards. This will allow access to remove the retainer.

 

Gary

[MiCarl]

You shouldn't even need a screwdriver, I just spread them a bit with my thumbnails.

 

They don't hold the joint on, just hold it tight against the upper tree. You won't be able to get to them until the joint is raised or pulled off. I leave the clip on until I'm ready to pull the fork from the lower tree - handy way to make sure the fork doesn't fall off.

 

Above the air joint is a rubber ring. You need to pull it off and put it somewhere safe for the reinstall. If they pop off when you slide the joint off they go behind the radiator - every time.

[86er]

 

Thanks guys, I'm gonna be on that this morning. I'll keep my laptop handy in case I run into more problems!