Since '02 xBhp is different things to different people. From a close knit national community of bikers to India's only motorcycling lifestyle magazine and a place to make like-minded biker friends. Join us

Castrol Power 1

Accelerate quick but brake easy.

Our Partner

Announcement

Collapse
No announcement yet.

How to Replace Motorcycle Fork Oil [Fork Reconditioning]

Collapse
X
 
  • Filter
  • Time
  • Show
Clear All
new posts

  • How to Replace Motorcycle Fork Oil [Fork Reconditioning]

    Changing motorcycle fork oil is a part of regular maintenance on a bike and can easily be done in-home shop or garage. Make sure everything is kept clean and pay attention to what your owner's manual recommends for oil versus air height. Change the oil in your motorcycle forks every year to insure long life and proper function of the bike.

    REMOVING

    Remove front wheel, mudguard, and temporarily install fork in a pinch bolt to loosen the top cap. Just loose it.

    Click image for larger version

Name:	01-FORKCAPLOSSEN_zps8045a9bf.jpg
Views:	1
Size:	60.5 KB
ID:	1999693


    Then remove the fork cap.

    Click image for larger version

Name:	02-FORKCAPREMOVE_zps5739a895.jpg
Views:	1
Size:	29.6 KB
ID:	1999694


    Push the pipe down and remove spring collar.

    Click image for larger version

Name:	03-COLLAR_zpse40d981e.jpg
Views:	1
Size:	28.0 KB
ID:	1999695


    Remove joint spring washer.

    Click image for larger version

Name:	04-WASHER_zps0dfe4895.jpg
Views:	1
Size:	37.8 KB
ID:	1999696


    Remove fork spring.

    Click image for larger version

Name:	05-SPRING_zps5c0db750.jpg
Views:	1
Size:	38.0 KB
ID:	1999697


    Drain the oil by pumping the pipe several times.

    Click image for larger version

Name:	06-DRAIN_zps0481b292.jpg
Views:	1
Size:	58.5 KB
ID:	1999698


    To separate pipe from base, loosen this hex bolt this way using adjustable spanner, it will be easier to loose. And use any pipe or just any ring spanner to apply the torque easily.

    Click image for larger version

Name:	07-HEXBOLT_zps1c5e4a12.jpg
Views:	1
Size:	43.5 KB
ID:	1999699

    Click image for larger version

Name:	08-HEXBOLTLOOSING_zpsaad881e2.jpg
Views:	2
Size:	54.8 KB
ID:	1999700


    When you have loosen the bolt, the piston inside will rotate freely. Then insert piston removal tool to hold the piston inside. Remove the bolt and pull the pipe out.

    Click image for larger version

Name:	09-PISTONREMOVERTOOL_zpsa8248b2f.jpg
Views:	2
Size:	48.0 KB
ID:	1999701


    Click image for larger version

Name:	10-PIPEOUT_zpsbb1035df.jpg
Views:	2
Size:	50.0 KB
ID:	1999702


    Remove the piston out and remove the rebound spring.

    Click image for larger version

Name:	11-REBOUNDSPRING_zps2ea8442a.jpg
Views:	1
Size:	62.6 KB
ID:	1999703


    Remove oil seal lock.

    Click image for larger version

Name:	12-OILSEALLOCK_zpsae7892ea.jpg
Views:	1
Size:	53.5 KB
ID:	1999704


    And remove oil-seal this way using cloth, that will prevent the base from being damage. Also don't damage the oil-seal seat while removing oil seal.

    Click image for larger version

Name:	13-OILSEALREMOVE_zps438ce985.jpg
Views:	1
Size:	52.1 KB
ID:	1999705


    INSPECTION

    Inspect piston, pipes, base for any score marks, scratches or abnormal wear. Check piston ring for any fatigue or damage. Replace any components that are worn or damage.

    Place the pipe in a V blocks, or flat surface (I prefer glass) and check if it is bent or straight. If found bent then get it straight on a lathe or simply buy a new one.
    It should not be more than 0.20 MM run out.

    Before assembly, wash all parts with a high flash/non-flammable solvent (kerosene) and wipe them dry.


    INSTALLATION

    Apply new fork oil around oil seal lips and install it in a base with its marking facing up or two rings facing downwards. Use old oil seal to drive it inside or simply use oil seal driver tool if you have after installing pipe. Then install oil lock.

    Click image for larger version

Name:	14-OIL-SEALINSTALL_zps391d0a6d.jpg
Views:	1
Size:	52.9 KB
ID:	1999706

    Click image for larger version

Name:	15-FORKDRIVERTOOL_zpsb3e01872.jpg
Views:	1
Size:	52.8 KB
ID:	1999707


    Insert piston inside fork pipe and insert oil lock piece. And drive it inside the base. Before inserting apply fork oil to the oil seal to prevent dry sliding.

    Click image for larger version

Name:	16-PISTONINTALL_zps0550939d.jpg
Views:	1
Size:	38.3 KB
ID:	1999708


    Replace both O-ring and washer before installation. You can also apply gasket sealant to the copper washer to ensure better sealing.

    Click image for larger version

Name:	17-O-RINGWASHER_zpsef21169e.jpg
Views:	1
Size:	48.8 KB
ID:	1999709

    Then insert piston remover tool and tighten the piston socket bolt.
    TORQUE: 20 N�m (2.0 kgf�m, 15 lbf�ft)

    Install dust seal. When you will be sliding dust seal from up to down it will carry dust with it. Then pull it up and clean the dust. Repeat this several times and then install it. This will ensure you there is no dust below the dust seal cap.

    After fitting, push the pipe all the way down and pour exactly 160 ml of new fork fluid.
    (Check your owners manual before pouring, it is different for different manufacturers)


    Pull the fork pipe up and insert fork spring with its tapered (narrow coil pitch) facing downward.

    Click image for larger version

Name:	Spring_zpsb7bd269e.jpg
Views:	1
Size:	20.7 KB
ID:	1999710


    Then pump the fork pipe 10~15 times up and down to remove trapped air from the lower portion of the fork pipe.

    Click image for larger version

Name:	18-PUMPING_zps4851f6e2.jpg
Views:	1
Size:	57.2 KB
ID:	1999711


    Install washer, collar. Apply fork oil to the new cap o-ring and install the fork cap on to the fork pipe. Press and rotate until it catches the thread.

    Click image for larger version

Name:	19-CAPINSTALL_zps0cde286d.jpg
Views:	1
Size:	40.7 KB
ID:	1999712


    Then temporarily install fork on your bike pinch bolt and tighten it.
    TORQUE: 22 N�m (2.2 kgf�m, 16 lbf�ft)


    Rotate your fork opposite so that fluid touches the collar. That will prevent your collar from being rusted.

    Click image for larger version

Name:	20-FORLOPPOSITE_zpsafb2bef6.jpg
Views:	1
Size:	41.3 KB
ID:	1999713


    Then install it on your bike. And drive on to test it
    Last edited by paul.1911; 07-05-2017, 01:51 AM.
    | SOL 68s | Rynox Tornado Pro | Rynox Advento | Cramster TRG2 | Scoyco MC20 | Hero 5 and SJ6 |

    Adjusting Tappets FZ25 www.youtube.com/watch?v=VhiJGtd_Xigl
    Engine Oil & Oil Filter Change www.youtube.com/watch?v=9AZ5MlXF7dc

    Visit here for more DIY www.youtube.com/c/LifeofPal

    DIY - Foam Air filter Cleaning & Oiling / Horn Repair Guide / Replacing Motorcycle Fork Oil

    Read This Before You Buy Any Halogen Bulb
    Engine Overhaul

  • #2
    Re: How to Replace Motorcycle Fork Oil [Fork Reconditioning]

    DIY Approved

    Another good one bro. Thanks
    Biking is not about what you have between your legs, its all about how well you use it!!!!!!!

    Give your details here if you want to help your fellow xBhpian stranded in your city

    Touring Blog: Cycling in Mongolia!

    Comment


    • #3
      Re: How to Replace Motorcycle Fork Oil [Fork Reconditioning]

      Where do I get the piston removal tool and the seal driver? I guess a pieces of PVC will work to drive the seal.
      I am back!

      Comment


      • #4
        Re: How to Replace Motorcycle Fork Oil [Fork Reconditioning]

        Originally posted by Cleaner View Post
        Where do I get the piston removal tool and the seal driver? I guess a pieces of PVC will work to drive the seal.
        I have made piston removal tool myself in a grinding wheel. You can try finding in a tools shops who also keep special tools for bikes. Or else if you have access to grinding machine or have few old rods in your home, you can get it grind in a lathe. You would need 13 mm rod and 22~23 inches long would be enough. Or you can also take it from your mechanic you know better. Take it when its his off day so that he will not ask you to give it back urgently and you will have enough time for your DIY.

        As I have mentioned, you don't need seal driver if you don't have. Use old oil seal to drive in the new seal. Then fit the lock, pipes and all.
        | SOL 68s | Rynox Tornado Pro | Rynox Advento | Cramster TRG2 | Scoyco MC20 | Hero 5 and SJ6 |

        Adjusting Tappets FZ25 www.youtube.com/watch?v=VhiJGtd_Xigl
        Engine Oil & Oil Filter Change www.youtube.com/watch?v=9AZ5MlXF7dc

        Visit here for more DIY www.youtube.com/c/LifeofPal

        DIY - Foam Air filter Cleaning & Oiling / Horn Repair Guide / Replacing Motorcycle Fork Oil

        Read This Before You Buy Any Halogen Bulb
        Engine Overhaul

        Comment


        • #5
          Re: How to Replace Motorcycle Fork Oil [Fork Reconditioning]

          Could you post detailed instruction on how to build the rod? There is not a single mechanic that I'm in good terms with and no tool shop who stocks special tools.
          I am back!

          Comment


          • #6
            Re: How to Replace Motorcycle Fork Oil [Fork Reconditioning]

            Originally posted by Cleaner View Post
            Could you post detailed instruction on how to build the rod? There is not a single mechanic that I'm in good terms with and no tool shop who stocks special tools.
            Grinding a rod cannot be taught. You need an experience. It is not even too easy to grind a rod to this much extent. Grinding is for smaller things. And this is a time taking job. It took me 30~45 min to complete this job. You need to keep water in a mug to cool down the rod every minute because you need to press the rod against wheel very hard and the rod will become ultimate hot in just a few minutes. So you also need to wear hand gloves and glasses because infinite iron particles and sand of wheel will disperse on the air.
            So I not recommend to do oneself if he is a beginner and haven't worked on grinding machine before. I will not be held responsible for anything. Necessary measurement should be taken care by oneself.

            So what I was saying, that you need to press very hard to the wheel and you need to be very careful, if that slip something can go wrong. Keep your hands away from the wheel, hold the rod little bit away from the wheel.
            And what you have to do is to use your eyes and give it a shape like this.



            And on the other side, some go for T shape welding, but I grind it like this and I use adjustable spanner.

            Last edited by paul.1911; 05-09-2013, 05:06 PM.
            | SOL 68s | Rynox Tornado Pro | Rynox Advento | Cramster TRG2 | Scoyco MC20 | Hero 5 and SJ6 |

            Adjusting Tappets FZ25 www.youtube.com/watch?v=VhiJGtd_Xigl
            Engine Oil & Oil Filter Change www.youtube.com/watch?v=9AZ5MlXF7dc

            Visit here for more DIY www.youtube.com/c/LifeofPal

            DIY - Foam Air filter Cleaning & Oiling / Horn Repair Guide / Replacing Motorcycle Fork Oil

            Read This Before You Buy Any Halogen Bulb
            Engine Overhaul

            Comment


            • #7
              Re: How to Replace Motorcycle Fork Oil [Fork Reconditioning]

              This just sparked an idea inside me (Thanks to Minto Fresh ), How about getting the rod forged by a blacksmith and then filing to shape? I am not new to power tools, I was actually looking for the dimension of the rod. Also how about welding 3 or 4 no. 20 nuts to one end so a torque wrench can be used?

              Slightly off-topic, I just noticed your handle, are you a gun nut, just like me?
              I am back!

              Comment


              • #8
                Re: How to Replace Motorcycle Fork Oil [Fork Reconditioning]

                Yes you can go for blacksmith idea. The inner dia of that piston is 9.5~10 mm. So your rod square shape has to be more & less forming 10 mm in the middle. It can be different for different manufacturer. Dimension of rod is already mentioned in my fist post #4.
                Why to weld nuts. Simply weld as T shape because this rod is actually used only to hold the piston. On the other hand, you were using Allen key to tighten the bolt. So torque wrench is to be use on Allen key bolt.
                | SOL 68s | Rynox Tornado Pro | Rynox Advento | Cramster TRG2 | Scoyco MC20 | Hero 5 and SJ6 |

                Adjusting Tappets FZ25 www.youtube.com/watch?v=VhiJGtd_Xigl
                Engine Oil & Oil Filter Change www.youtube.com/watch?v=9AZ5MlXF7dc

                Visit here for more DIY www.youtube.com/c/LifeofPal

                DIY - Foam Air filter Cleaning & Oiling / Horn Repair Guide / Replacing Motorcycle Fork Oil

                Read This Before You Buy Any Halogen Bulb
                Engine Overhaul

                Comment


                • #9
                  Re: How to Replace Motorcycle Fork Oil [Fork Reconditioning]

                  An easy alternative is to get a suitable sized nut welded to a 12mm rod.
                  I had picked up a 30" rod for Rs.25 from a scrap yard and got a nut welded for Rs.20/-

                  Click image for larger version

Name:	IMG_2029.JPG
Views:	3
Size:	33.2 KB
ID:	1846458 Click image for larger version

Name:	IMG_2036.JPG
Views:	1
Size:	58.6 KB
ID:	1846459

                  Comment


                  • #10
                    Re: How to Replace Motorcycle Fork Oil [Fork Reconditioning]

                    I have 2009 Pulsar 180 UG 4. I thought of welding with a nut but later I thought it won't be strong so with a creative idea I made a 15.5 mm custom hex rod Allen T spanner to remove the bottom nut with a 6mm allen key while holding the top rod with hex spanner. I successfully removed all the respective parts in order and replaced with a new oil seal followed by new Bajaj fork oil. I poured 320 ml per fork as recommended in the user manual. It took 4 bottles each of 160 ml priced at Rs 44 each. 1 oil seal price is Rs 69.
                    Attached Files

                    Comment


                    • #11
                      Re: How to Replace Motorcycle Fork Oil [Fork Reconditioning]

                      [MENTION=53807]paul.1911[/MENTION] bro, what should I do just for replacing fork oil.
                      I don't want to disassemble entire fork, for eg, in my splendor. There is no oil leaks or anything. Should I just drain from the nut below axle and refill it from top?
                      --------------------------------------------------------------
                      Bikes owned: HeroHonda splendor 1998, Honda Dream Neo 2013
                      Honda is HONDA da
                      DIY:
                      Carburetor cleaning Dream Neo
                      Fuel line cleaning Dream Neo
                      Valve clearance Dream Neo
                      Oil strainer cleaning Dream neo
                      Air filter replacement of Dream neo

                      Comment


                      • #12
                        Re: How to Replace Motorcycle Fork Oil [Fork Reconditioning]

                        Originally posted by dude_creative View Post
                        @paul.1911 bro, what should I do just for replacing fork oil.
                        I don't want to disassemble entire fork, for e.g, in my splendor. There is no oil leaks or anything. Should I just drain from the nut below axle and refill it from top?
                        Depends on how old the oil has been there in fork. For e.g my splendor didn't get any fork oil change in 6 years . So had to dismantle everything and clean it.
                        If your bike had regular or at least 3 oil changes in 4-5 years ( without change of seals ) then only oil+seal change is required. Dismantle piston only when its jammed up badly or tube is bent.

                        You cannot drain by loosening lower nut. Only way is to remove fork , open top nut and turn it upside down to drain oil. Lower nut holds piston assy inside fork.
                        Pour only required amount of oil in fork , not more not less.
                        Carb Tuning made easy (Thanks Sibun !)

                        Comment


                        • #13
                          Re: How to Replace Motorcycle Fork Oil [Fork Reconditioning]

                          Originally posted by dude_creative View Post
                          [MENTION=53807]paul.1911[/MENTION] bro, what should I do just for replacing fork oil.
                          I don't want to disassemble entire fork, for eg, in my splendor. There is no oil leaks or anything. Should I just drain from the nut below axle and refill it from top?
                          Don't loose that nut it holds the piston and you need piston holder to tighten it. Remove the top nut drain the oil and pour 150ml in each of them.
                          | SOL 68s | Rynox Tornado Pro | Rynox Advento | Cramster TRG2 | Scoyco MC20 | Hero 5 and SJ6 |

                          Adjusting Tappets FZ25 www.youtube.com/watch?v=VhiJGtd_Xigl
                          Engine Oil & Oil Filter Change www.youtube.com/watch?v=9AZ5MlXF7dc

                          Visit here for more DIY www.youtube.com/c/LifeofPal

                          DIY - Foam Air filter Cleaning & Oiling / Horn Repair Guide / Replacing Motorcycle Fork Oil

                          Read This Before You Buy Any Halogen Bulb
                          Engine Overhaul

                          Comment


                          • #14
                            Re: How to Replace Motorcycle Fork Oil [Fork Reconditioning]

                            i dont think any mechanic or authorized service centre might have replaced the fork oil in my HH Super Splendor 2006 model, so guess my bike is running with the original fork oil since past 10 years.

                            Front suspension has become little hard now. Planning to give to a good mechanic for replacing the fork oil.
                            K.Ravi

                            Do check out my custom painted tail light in my DIY thread ;) ...

                            Comment


                            • #15
                              Re: How to Replace Motorcycle Fork Oil [Fork Reconditioning]

                              I want to overhaul my 2002 Suzuki MAX100R's front forks myself. I don't have any DIY experience before.

                              1. Please suggest which brand oil should I buy for the forks.

                              2. According to the TVS parts catalogue, Suzuki MAX100R and TVS MAX100R were fitted with slightly different front forks. the former has the ceriani-type forks while the latter has ceriani forks. ( just wanted to share this )

                              Click image for larger version

Name:	Screenshot from 2016-06-06 09-00-43.jpg
Views:	1
Size:	30.9 KB
ID:	1936980

                              Click image for larger version

Name:	Screenshot from 2016-06-06 09-01-22.jpg
Views:	1
Size:	30.5 KB
ID:	1936981
                              My Motorcycles :-

                              IND Suzuki AX100 ( 1984 )
                              TVS Suzuki Fiero ( 2000 )
                              TVS Suzuki MAX100R ( 2002 )

                              Hero Splendor Plus i3S ( 2018 )

                              Be Passionate about your BIKE and Ride Safe...


                              Comment

                              Working...
                              X