Question is - how do you know when they actually need new bushings? I understand the coating wears off and obviously if a seal is leaking, change them while you're there. But aside from that, are there any symptoms that would indicate the bushings are worn out to the point of really needing replacement?

'87 FLT 160k miles with original air ride system and it will stay that way, so please, no suggestions about aftermarket springs.

 

Good question… I asked a trusted wrench your question, his answer; “in 40+ years, I’ve never had to replace one, unless due to impact from a wreck.

The lower bushing is there to keep the tube from sliding out, if it’s not buggered in some fashion and doing its job, no need to replace it. The upper bushing is there to keep the tube centered I guess, it’s not a tight tolerance, so again, if it’s not buggered I doubt it would need replacing. I would think a visual inspection would reveal any condition warranting a need for replacement.

Interested if you found any definitive answer to this, or just more antidotal bs, like my input.

 

I saw your question a couple days ago and I flat couldn't come up with a definitive answer.

Out of the 10 or so sets of bushings I have replaced over a fair number of years I can't remember a set that was done just cause of a bushing problem.

I was either repairing a leak or bent fork leg or lowering a bike . Lowered 3 of them over the years.
It's been a surprise to me you haven't gotten more reply's to this question.

To me it's a good question and I am interested in what answers might be given.

WP

 

What y'all said is what I was thinking - "if it ain't broke don't fix it." I've seen so many posts and videos with people neurotic about those bushings, had to ask and certainly wasn't looking for more work to do on mine.

A dealership wrench who I trust but seldom use his advice, told me that on touring models, they always change them as normal service after 40k miles, regardless. I know they have a coating that can literally be rubbed off with a rough paper towel or shop rag, but was hoping to know whether there were any symptoms that would suggest they actually do need replacing.

 

If it aint broke don't fix it. I've only replaced them when I have it open, usually for a leaking seal. If nothing leaks......I don't sweat it, I do change the fluid regularly though. I also have to say that I've NEVER had a bushing failure in the 45 years of riding FL's. They always look a little worn, but I replace them when I do new seals.

 

On my bike..’85 FXRS... when a fork seal needs replacement I rebuild both forks. The parts are pretty cheap and it’s something I can do myself so I’m not paying an independent shop labor rates.

 

I replaced mine last winter, no reason other than I was in there anyways replacing the seals. Replaced the upper and the lower bushings. Cleaned out the sliders as best I could. I really did not see any wear in the bushings, and I feel no difference in the forks since replacement.

I should have replaced the springs while I was at it.

 

Worn bushings can be found by attempting to rock the slider back and forth against the stanchion. The bushings are there to ensure the slider moves only in parallel with the stanchion.

To check them you need the front wheel out, forks on left or right lock, then try to move the slider in a sideways rocking motion. Any movement, usually more 'felt' than seen would suggest that the bushings are worn allowing the slider to move out of parallel with the stanchion, which will speed up oil seal failure and can be the cause of vibration under breaking and twitchy handling.

As others have said, bushings generally get replaced under the 'while I'm here doing the seals' heading. I've never replaced bushings for wear in all the years I've been riding and spanner wanking, only because, 'while I'm here...'.

 

^ Spanner wanking"

That`s a good one..