Fork Blown Seal and Questions

[jamman]

OK yes I downloaded it .. thanks !!

[Troll]

Factory Service Manual

[jamman]

Sorry what is a FSM ? thanks !

[Old Drifter]

If you don't have a FSM you should get one.

[jamman]

So from what I see the lower covers are not required as the dust/wiper seal fits over the top of the fork housing ..

I found some lower covers on the Bay and snagged them so I can get back to original ...

Now hopefully I can get the rebuild completed once all the parts arrive ..

[jamman]

Thanks

That covers the spring replacement and parts but how to disassemble the lower fork to replace the wiper seal and are the lower fork covers required ?

[pcarrell]

Well, here's a full breakdown of the parts involved: http://shop.ronayersmotorcycles.com/fiche_section_detail.asp?section=388661&category=Motorcycles&make=KAWASAKI&year=1999&fveh=8971

Beyond that, our own Greenbarn has delved deep into those front forks and recorded his adventures.  That should help!  http://www.vulcandrifterriders.com/forkspringpg1.html

[jamman]

All

Recently acquired a '99 Drifter and the previous owner had leather covers made to go over the top of the forks, there are no lower fork covers on it ..

I detected that the front suspension needed work before I bought and I knew a rebuild would be in order .. I took off the leather cover and confirmed what I suspected that the seals are shot .. likely very low on oil

I have some progressive springs and fork seals (no wipers) on the way ..

Questions:

1) are the lower fork covers required ? Seems like they are given there is nothing to cover the open end of the tube to keep stuff out

2) beside a new fork seal and oil, any other parts needed from what you can see in the picture ?

Thanks !
Drifter Gary (jamman)