Topic: changing out rubber gators on the forks on CB450....how do I do it?

[gregwaits]

This question probably is real basic for you experienced wrenchers in here. I have new fork boots for this 1970 CB450 and I need to take the old ones off and replace them. How do you most easily do this?

Do I simply loosen the bolts at the triple tree and slip the fork legs off, and then slide the old boots off? I am going to have to repaint the triple tree anyway, so this will alow me unhindered access to it if I go this route.

I am just hoping I don't have to take off all sorts of things on top of the handlebars, etc.

thanks!

[ProTeal55]

The stock headlight ears kinda "hold" the gators in place. This would be a good time to get some aftermarket ones (if you were planning on it anyways, or not planning on re-installing them which u seem to be). Remove the stock headlite ears and the gators will come right off..

[Gordon]

Do I simply loosen the bolts at the triple tree and slip the fork legs off, and then slide the old boots off?

Yep, it's as easy as that!

Well, actually, since they're old and hard they may take a little convincing to come off, but the new ones will be easy to put on.

[mgmuellner]

You will probably also have to take off the brake.  I'd pull the front wheel, brake - then loosen the trees & slip the forks out.  Change the gaitors, then put push the forks back in the trees, put on the wheel & brake - then you're done.  For the brake, dont let it hang by the hose.  Get an old coat hanger & hang it from the brake body & the frame.  Also you'll want to lube the fork before re-insertion.  Take that part slow because you dont want to scratch up the fork.  All in all, it should take about an hour or less.