Topic: Need fork seal help!

[honbonduc]

I am attempting to change out the fork seals on my 81 cm400t and wonder if anyone can offer advice.
I removed one fork tube, removed the circlip and washer that was under it, but now how do I get the
tube separated from the slider to pull the old seal out? Do I have to remove the allen bolt at the bottom
of the slider? It seems like they should just pull apart, but at least so far they don't. The repair manual says
the allen bolt on the bottom of the assembly can be very difficult to remove, but doesn't make it clear if
it has to be removed for seal replacement, it just tells you how to take the whole assembly apart. I don't
want to take apart more than I have to! Has anyone done this job on a cm400t? Thanks for any help.

[CBGBs]

It seems like it may be simillar to CB350-cb400 forks I've worked on. You'll want to remove the allen screw. It is difficult because it will likely spin the internals along with the screw. I use a chorded power drill because it will hit hard with strong torque, since I don't have an impact driver. the slider will then be released and watch for more fluid. The seal can be very tough to remove and install. I try to carefully use a very arge wrench, closed end preferably, to pry it out.
Use a piece of pvc pipe (1.25"??)to set the seal but make sure it slides in evenly or you may damage the seal.
Hope this helps.

[BobbyR]

You have to remove the Allen bolt. It will probably spin on you. Place a broom handle inside the fork leg to hold the inner cylinder in place while you undo the Allen bolt. You will use the handle again when tightening the bolt.   

[honbonduc]

Thanks for the advice. I cut off my L shaped 6mm allen wrench and adapted it to fit my impact
and it loosened it right up without problems.

[CBGBs]