Fork oil level ? - Street Bob
Outstanding HDF Member
Joined: Aug 2009
Posts: 2,938
Likes: 4
From: NC
Well I changed out my fork oil today when I had my front tire off for replacement. I changed out the spacers and went with the same length you did, 5/8" over. I'm 220# with gear but I frequently carry between 30-60# of gear with me so I'm guessing it should be close. I also went ahead and cut another set 1/2" over in case I don't end up with enough sag. I didn't use 20 wt oil though, I cheaped out and used ATF. I'll be taking it for a test drive tomorrow to see the results. Thanks for posting the helpful info. I have had plans to do this for a while but the write up helped me get all the stuff I needed before disassembly. BTW the crappy bolts on the cap are 8x1.25mm and 35mm long. I was able to find a set of them at Lowe's for $.80 each. Mine where not stripped but there is definitely not enough metal on them and the quality of the factory fasteners is pretty crappy.
Road Master
Joined: Jan 2010
Posts: 859
Likes: 14
From: Millsboro Delaware
When ever you change the fork oil, follow the directions in the service manual. They give specific measurements. You should not go by how many ounces as it is only an approximate measurement. When I PC my front end on my 08 SB, tripple trees and legs I followed the instructions for determining the correct fork oil level. It's height is measured rather than done by volume. It does make a difference......
Thread Starter
|
Cruiser
Joined: Sep 2010
Posts: 108
Likes: 1
From: Mountain View, CA
Ok. Sorry for the miss info. My manual also says that the forks need 3.74 or 28.6 oz in the forks. Progressive says to put the fluid level down to 5.5 inches from the top of the fork tube since the kit drops the front end 2 inches. I never saw this in the install instructions and am hopeing this solves my front end issue. Will keep you posted.
Road Warrior
Joined: Aug 2009
Posts: 1,630
Likes: 17
From: Central FL
I never heard of someone using ATF in forks before...
Not only has it been done plenty of times, some manufacturers specify it as the recommended fluid.
I did finally get out for a test drive today and I like it. It is still very smooth over irregularities on the road but there is noticeably less dive when braking and even shifting. The factory set up definitely needed improvement. Now it feels very balanced front to rear. I have Progressive 440's in the rear with the sag properly set up.
Not only has it been done plenty of times, some manufacturers specify it as the recommended fluid.
I did finally get out for a test drive today and I like it. It is still very smooth over irregularities on the road but there is noticeably less dive when braking and even shifting. The factory set up definitely needed improvement. Now it feels very balanced front to rear. I have Progressive 440's in the rear with the sag properly set up.
Last edited by DCLXVI; Jan 14, 2011 at 01:56 PM.
Thread
Thread Starter
Forum
Replies
Last Post
MHRider
Touring Models
6
Mar 3, 2013 06:43 AM
