Bent Fork Tube

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Oct 26, 2016 | 05:55 PM

Harley1951

Thread Starter

5th Gear

Joined: Sep 2016

Posts: 9

Likes: 0

From: Marietta, GA

Bent Fork Tube

Good Evening All

During my tear down on my 1951 FL project I discovered the left tube is bent just below the triple tree. The right tube is straight as an arrow it has been my believe the bike has been down hard at one point just due to the all the broken brackets on the left side on the frame I had to replace so far.

Upon further investigation the best I can tell it is a 3 to 5 degree bend, in the shop manual they have a section on straighten a fork tube. I would have to find someone with a press but I think the bend is not that sever. My goal is to keep the bike all original or as close to 100% as possible.

Has anyone had any experience in straighten out a fork tube is it advisable to try and do this or should I bite the bullet and go with a new set. What are your thoughts on mixing a new one with the good one old technology with new technology.

Thanks,

John

Oct 26, 2016 | 06:25 PM

Yamaharley

Outstanding HDF Member

Joined: Oct 2016

Posts: 2,530

Likes: 546

From: Wayne County, PA

Hell no. Get a new tube. There is original and then there is safe. No way would I trust a bent tube on a bike that is actually very nice and worth something.

Oct 27, 2016 | 12:16 AM

panz4ever

Seasoned HDF Member

Joined: Oct 2005

Posts: 7,499

Likes: 3,717

From: Santa Klaus County, Cali

If it is your fork tube then 1950 to mid 70-something will still keep the bike correct and original.

Oct 28, 2016 | 01:38 PM