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Bent Fork Tube

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Old Oct 26, 2016 | 05:55 PM
  #1  
Harley1951's Avatar
Harley1951
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From: Marietta, GA
Default 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
 
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Old Oct 26, 2016 | 06:25 PM
  #2  
Yamaharley's Avatar
Yamaharley
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From: Wayne County, PA
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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.
 
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Old Oct 27, 2016 | 12:16 AM
  #3  
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panz4ever
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If it is your fork tube then 1950 to mid 70-something will still keep the bike correct and original.
 
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Old Oct 28, 2016 | 01:38 PM
  #4  
Harley1951's Avatar
Harley1951
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From: Marietta, GA
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Panz4ever,

I agree it is a safety issue I ordered new tubes after having the forks checked over by a Harley speacilist and his shop can rebuild them and still keep them original.

Thanks

John
 
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