Author Topic: Did I screw up? Two left forks.  (Read 1078 times)

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Offline Dimitri13

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Did I screw up? Two left forks.
« on: February 01, 2012, 07:55:13 pm »
When I got ready to rebuild my forks, I saw that one tube/pipe was unusable. So I ordered a replacement off ebay. Well, I needed a right fork, but for some reason, I ended up buying a left fork (I think at the time, I knew I was getting a left fork and planned on swapping over the bottom, but it's been nearly a month since I ordered it and I can't remember).

I just finished polishing the fork bottom and replacing the seal and oil. After putting them next to each other, I realized that they were both the same. Am I able to use the forks as they are? I'm using a single caliper setup, and won't be using a fender. If I HAVE to though, I can pull the bottom off my bad fork (the bottom is still good) and swap everything over, but I'd prefer not to have to take out my brand new oil seal and everything.
« Last Edit: February 01, 2012, 07:56:53 pm by Dimitri13 »

Offline Dimitri13

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Re: Did I screw up? Two left forks.
« Reply #1 on: February 01, 2012, 10:05:17 pm »
It looks like it'll fit the axle just fine, but I just want to make sure, so I know if I have to rip apart my other fork :/

Online bryanj

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Re: Did I screw up? Two left forks.
« Reply #2 on: February 02, 2012, 12:44:09 am »
Not using a fender is a bad idea UNLESS you fit a substantial fork brace to stop the forks flexing
Semi Geriatric ex-Honda mechanic and MOT tester (UK version of annual inspection). Garage full of "projects" mostly 500/4 from pre 73 (no road tax in UK).

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Offline ekpent

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Re: Did I screw up? Two left forks.
« Reply #3 on: February 02, 2012, 05:29:51 am »
If it was me I would have used both of the original known good lowers and would have just swapped the 'new' fork tube over during the rebuild. If you swap back the fork seal should come back out pretty easily I would think.

Offline Old Scrambler

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Re: Did I screw up? Two left forks.
« Reply #4 on: February 02, 2012, 08:35:39 am »
I would swap the tube to the original leg with a new seal...........its nice to have the drain-plugs on the lower side of the legs...........then sell the polished leg with the new seal..............Yes, to a fork brace of some sort.
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Offline Dimitri13

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Re: Did I screw up? Two left forks.
« Reply #5 on: February 02, 2012, 10:50:38 am »
Bleh, alright. Looks like I'm getting my hands dirty again :<