Topic: Removing OEM Spring cover (upper)

[Romhog]

I think I already know the answer to this but.... with my OEM shocks in good shape to reuse on my project bike (CB550) I was thinking of narrowing the look of the rear shocks by removing the guard. I don't have a spring compressor but it looks like I may need to compress them some to get the spring seat stopper off (see pic below). Will this come free after I can get it past the top joint? My other option would be to cut it off but I know I may have a rusty "corrosion surprise" waiting for me under the guard. Worst case I may just cut but wanted to see if anyone else has ventured in to this look/idea.

thanks in advance!

[camelman]

The retainers drop out easily once the spring is compressed. I usually compress the springs by hand and have a helper place the retainers when I reassemble. I place a folded towel on my stomach and then pull the spring towards me. It compresses surprisingly easily.

Camelman

[steam-powered man]

i removed my k6 spring covers and i think it looks ok, done pretty much the way mr camel said.  i replaced the retainer halves myself, a little tricky by certainly do-able.     

[Johnie]

I have removed a number of them without a compressor. My son and I do it with me compressing and him using a mechanics pic to get #3 out. Really not a bad deal.

[Romhog]

thanks everyone for the ideas! I need that 2nd person I think because I just couldn't get it to pop out. I will give it another shot this weekend.