How to remove fork stem cap

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Mar 18, 2019 | 03:57 PM

MMH

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How to remove fork stem cap

I need to remove the triple trees on my 2008 Street Bob. Seems straight forward enough, but the fork stem cap (the cap that covers the form stem nut) is very tight. How do I remove it w/o damaging it? I tried to put some channel locks on it w/ protective neoprene strips underneath, but they just slide off. I can not even get a knife under the edge to try to pry it up, but have not really pushed very hard.

Mar 18, 2019 | 04:00 PM

Dynaglide92

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From: Chicago

It’s only supposed to be hand tight. Use you hands it screws into the fork stem nut

Mar 18, 2019 | 04:25 PM

MMH

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Quote:

Originally Posted by Dynaglide92

It’s only supposed to be hand tight. Use you hands it screws into the fork stem nut

Man, am I glad I asked (before doing something stupid like beating on it).

Before anyone asks, yes I do have a factory manual, and no, it does not indicate that the stem caps threads in. It simply tells you to remove it.

Mar 18, 2019 | 04:28 PM

Dynaglide92

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From: Chicago

Quote:

Originally Posted by MMH

lol glad I could save your cap!

Mar 18, 2019 | 05:06 PM

joe40x

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From: nowhere

A small strap wrench will usually work on the tight ones.

Mar 18, 2019 | 06:40 PM

F86

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Joined: Mar 2015

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From: Philly Suburbs

I messed one up years ago trying to pry it off. I felt really stupid when I realized it was threaded in. Wasn't even very tight. Came off easily by hand. Fortunately a new one was cheap.