Am not talking about the top tree nuts I am referring to the actual fork tube caps. I took the tubes out of the tree and I had the whole fork tube in my bench top vise with rubber jaws and still could not get enough force to unscrew the damn things. I am trying to change out fork tubes and this is holding me up. The manual just says to unscrew them. I am using a big wrench as it only has two flats and I don't think a socket would fit there. I don't think you can heat them either without melting the oring that is in there. Any suggestions

 

Usually works out better to loosen them while they're still in the trees, if I'm not mistaken. Haven't done mine yet, but seems I've heard this before. I'm sure somebody more helpful will be along shortly.

 

Incidentally I tried that too and failed. First time I ever had this problem of any of my bikes

 

An ol Timer told me years ago to break them loose before taking the tubes outta the trees. Just done it that way since, the 5-6 times I have.

WP

 

Well dang Ok think this thru first.
Pipe wrench, cheater pipe and a new set of caps.

Haven't had any stuck that bad YET

Best of luck to ya WP

 

Give the wrench a good, sharp rap with an engineer's hammer.

 

Pics always help me when people start threads so here is what I am working with I tried to hold it in the vise and hammer the big wrench and it didn't budge. I will attempt it again tomorrow after pregnant wife errands. As always thank you guys for your generous help

 

I woke up and just thought of this. I haven't drained the oil out of them yet before trying to get the caps off. I wonder if that is going to make a difference

 

It shouldn't.

 

I'm with THC on this. Can't think of a way it would help. Called a HD tech I know for grins and asked him what he would do. He said he has a Strap Wrench he uses. I'll try to get a pic.

He mentioned heat can distort the finish. that would be a Last Resort.

WP

http://www.harborfreight.com/catalog...q=strap+wrench

This is a real cheap example but should get the idea across.
Have seen better strap wrenches at Home Depot and such places.