Topic: Fork rebuild question for cb550 forks, anyone use these seals? more ?s

[550_ko]

Hey guys.  It’s time to rebuild my 550 forks on my cb350 twin.  I’m tracking down parts right now and found these on ebay:

http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=4605512566&fromMakeTrack=true

K&S TECHNOLOGIES FORK OIL SEAL SET
P/N 16-1020
ID x OD x Width 35mm x 48mm x 11mm
Anyone ever use them?
Any known issues or should I just use Honda ones?

[DCopp]

yep, I did but got mine from local Honda dealership...work just fine...no worries...

[ohiocaferacer]

Sounds like your steering stem(head) bearings are loose.

When was the last time you checked them??

[ohiocaferacer]

BTW do you think the Progressive Springs for the 550 would be worth the money, or just overkill for a low budget street only cafe twin?

Sounds like you on the numbers for the stem adjustment.....one other thing that makes the front chatter. Check the heights of the forks above the triple clamps....make sure they are the same(equal). You may need to raise the forks in the triple clamps(drop the clamps down on the tubes) if this continues....to shorten the wheel base....work down in increments, till the chatter disappears.

I'd save my money on the springs.......dont really need them unless you have a ton of front end sag or doing some racing.

[ohiocaferacer]

Your measurements sound good......but definately try lowering the trees/raising the forks.

The new shocks wont shorten your wheelbase, but raising the forks will. If frame geometrics get out of balance for the weight distribution of the motorcycle....one of the first things to notice is a chattering at the front or a worse head shake at speed. If you notice either of these you need to shorten the wheelbase. You can either run a shorter chain, therefor pushing the rear wheel forward or lower the triple clamps(raise the forks). That reminds me....how is your chain and were is your axle in the adjusters??

Also...wanted to mention....if you need any factory OEM Honda parts....feel free to contact me as I can order new parts from honda. I have a parts contact form on my website.