Fork and steering bearing update today

I finally got around to fixing some stuff on my bike.

Forks got new seals, progressive springs and fresh fluid.

First, I think I lost a part, or I never had it because the previous own lost it. I could not find the taper spindle for one of the fork legs. I ended up re assembling the fork without it. It seems to operate ok so far. What does it do, of course I need it, why else would Yamaha include it in the fork. But can I live without it?

The new progressive springs are way shorter than the springs I pulled out. The springs I pulled out measured two inches longer than what the service manual states for free length.

Over all, the procedure was pretty easy. It took much less time than I thought it would. I used a combination of the write up on the XJ CD and the service manual.

The steering bearing was pretty easy too. I'm not sure how the manufacturers intend me to set the tension on it right though. All those wires, cables, unhooked handle bars and fork clamp were in the way.

Now if only the rain would let up so I can take it for a ride!

 

I finally had the chance to try out my repairs today.

The suspension is dramatically different. much smoother over bumps, I feel much more confident. No more wobbles during corners, bike feels more ready to initiate turn, if that makes sense. I believe the front end sits a little lower now too. I need more time to investigate this. Handling characteristics are improved for the most part though.

Steering bearing is nice and smooth. No more notch when pointing straight down the road.

Also want to include that I used 15W fork oil. 230 ish cc in each fork leg.

 

Where did you buy your fork springs.

 

The Notch in the steering and the bike wanting to go straight making you have to fight it to corner are the symptoms of worn steering bearings and their races. Anyone with these symptoms should rep[lace the steering bearings and races at once. It is very dangerous to ride a bike with worn bearings like that.

Glad you got the bike sorted, great feeling when you do the work yourself eh?

Buy that missing part and install it ASAP.