Topic: 1973 CB500K2 damping rod stuck in fork tube

[michaelmegliola]

Hi,

I am new to working on SOHC Hondas, was trying to replace the fork springs in a 1973 CB500K2. I drained the forks, took the cap off the right side, then unscrewed the 19mm retainer to release the spring. The spring came free, but the damping rod slid down into the tube and now it is stuck. I released the other side and compressed the front end, looped a wire over the rod and pulled, I cannot move it. I know it must be able to extend because the left side (spring still attached) extends until it is way up in the clear, above the fork tube.

Any idea what might cause it to be stuck?

Photo attached.

(thanks)

[bryanj]

The damper rod has fallen through the end of the tube and got stuck. If you remove the wheel and mudguard the slider will come straight off so you can sort it out, new seals at same time would be a good idea

[newday777]

At the bottom of the lower cases there in the indent where the axle resides, there is a bolt that holds the damper rod assembly in place so it doesn't slide out, so you have to remove the bolt. It is always best to remove the bolts first while the fork is assembled to keep pressure on the assembly so it holds and doesn't turn while unscrewing the bolts(#17 and the sealing washer).

[michaelmegliola]

Thank (both of) you -- I will pull the fork apart and report back.

[Little_Phil]

It's probably stuck in the bit of oil and a build up of dirt that always seems to reside at the bottom, If you screw the locknut that was under the cap on the thread and pull and waggle using that and pliers it it may come up. It's bound to be have resistance as it is a damper rod as you say.

[Deltarider]

Slightly of topic, owners of a CB500K2 in Europe (the model -ED, -F, -G) have different front legs. Theirs are the same the CB550K2 had, so no rod in there.

[bryanj]

Dont need to take the bolt out on the early 500 as there is no restricor bush at bottom of tube