Steering Damper Disassembly

Vince Lupo · Post by **Vince Lupo** » Tue Jul 28, 2009 3:08 pm

Rare to have me ask a question in the 'Scrambler' section, but I just acquired an hydraulic steering damper that I'm going to (hopefully) install on my SuperHawk. Any idea how you disassemble the unit? I want to take it apart to refurbish it, and I want to be careful with the rubber boot to make sure it doesn't tear. Any advice?

Many thanks.....

davomoto · Post by **davomoto** » Tue Jul 28, 2009 3:49 pm

Vince, put it in the sun, or heat with heat gun to soften rubber. If you want to disassemble the unit, it'll be tough. I have a tool that was in my bicycle drawer, that actually fit thenut on top.

davomoto

Vince Lupo · Post by **Vince Lupo** » Tue Jul 28, 2009 4:04 pm

Hmmm....maybe might not be such a good idea.

I managed to pick it up and the proper motor mount at Mid-Ohio. I just need to get the bushings and make the bolt that mounts onto the lower triple tree.

What was the original finish on this unit? Is it aluminum or is it some kind of cast metal? I was thinking of chroming it, but that may be a foolish idea (of course you expected that!).

davomoto · Post by **davomoto** » Tue Jul 28, 2009 8:43 pm

Origional finish was zinc plated. I had mine done in clear cad. You could paint it siver, and it would look OK.

davomoto

Vince Lupo · Post by **Vince Lupo** » Wed Jul 29, 2009 8:52 am

Look what a bit of time on the buffing wheel can do. I did the whole thing, then some Wizards polishing wool, some Mothers Back to Black on the boot, and it looks beautiful!

davomoto · Post by **davomoto** » Wed Jul 29, 2009 11:27 am

Vince, looks good, but it'll rust as it's now bare metal. You may want to try a clear coat to protect.

davomoto

Vince Lupo · Post by **Vince Lupo** » Wed Jul 29, 2009 12:41 pm

Yes, I was warned about that likelihood. I think, however, if I keep it waxed, it should reduce that possibility. And, as you can well imagine, I'm the cleaning, waxing and polishing maniac, so the rust wouldn't be around for long! However, if I find that I'm losing the battle, I'll probably clear coat it. Thanks for your advice!