Fork disassembly questions

R100 · Post by **R100** » Tue Mar 10, 2015 3:56 pm

I am assuming I start with the chrome fork housings (with the 4 dimples/holes).
I can't make a steel ring like G-Man did for his, but I sacrificed a 3" c-clamp.
How deep do I go into those holes with the tool? The chrome housing appears to be thin.
Do I bottom the pins in the holes?

G-Man · Post by **G-Man** » Tue Mar 10, 2015 4:06 pm

R100

Nice improvised tool!

Just go for as much engagement as you can without putting any pressure on the seal holder. If you can, get some penetrating oil and heat working for you.

Put the axle end in the vise and get some steady turning force on there.

If you have trouble pulling the tube(s) out then you may have suffered the "too long fender bolt problem". Mild cases can be overcome by working the tube like a slide hammer.

G

R100 · Post by **R100** » Tue Mar 10, 2015 4:15 pm

G-Man wrote:R100

Nice improvised tool!

Just go for as much engagement as you can without putting any pressure on the seal holder. If you can, get some penetrating oil and heat working for you.

Put the axle end in the vise and get some steady turning force on there.

If you have trouble pulling the tube(s) out then you may have suffered the "too long fender bolt problem". Mild cases can be overcome by working the tube like a slide hammer.

G

Thanks G. Some pen. oil overnight.
Will a propane torch discolour the chrome? I also have a hot air gun.

G-Man · Post by **G-Man** » Tue Mar 10, 2015 4:21 pm

R100

Just a bit of gentle heat and penetrating oil depending on how much rust is in there, The heat is just to create a bit of capiliary action to pull in the oil.

You could give it a try without but there will be less damage to the seal holder if you can loosen it up a little. If you can file down the end of your bolt on the left to get a snug fit in the seal holder, it all helps. My tool has two leavers so that you can get a nice even torque on there.

You could hook an adjustable wrench on the side without the screw.

G

R100 · Post by **R100** » Tue Mar 10, 2015 4:25 pm

OK. Hot air gun with pen.oil. And a bullet nosed bolt.
And a big ring spanner.

G-Man · Post by **G-Man** » Tue Mar 10, 2015 4:30 pm

Good luck! The better the fit you get in those holes, the happier you will be...... :-)

I had a business meeting in Burlington a while back, after a nice ride out of Toronto on Go Transit.

My wife has family near Welland.....

Let us know how you get on.

G

R100 · Post by **R100** » Tue Mar 10, 2015 4:33 pm

Will do.
Contemplating making another clamp - use 2.