fork seal install questions???

forgive me if there already is a thread on this topic, but I didn't see one. Do you all have any tips for installing fork seals (39mm forks) like homemade tools or such? While were at it how about any step by step on how to replace fork seals? Going to try it myself and never have done it before.

I usually pull the whole tube assembly out of the trees, (remove axle, wheel, fender, caliper etc.
Drain the fluid from the drain screws on the slider.
Then pop the metal cap off the slider with a punch and hammer, (there's a little grove on the slider).
Pop the dust seal out with a flat screwdriver.
Pull the clip out using a thin screwdriver.
Then hold the fork tube assembly upright with the end of the slider on the shop floor, (put a rag under it so it doesn't get scratched). Compress the fork a few times and the seal will usually pop out of the slider, (I usually put my hand on the top and hunch over it pushing down with my chest).
Clean everything because fluid usually gets everywhere.
Slide a new seal down into the slider as far as you can by hand and make sure it's started in the hole properly.
Take a piece of PVC pipe that has a inner diameter larger than the fork tube diameter and longer than the fork tube, (I took a little ruler to home depot and measured various pipes until I found one that'll fit over the tube, 1.6" if I recall). 1 1/2" Schedule 40 PVC about 30 inches long should suffice.
Slide the PVC over the tube and against the seal, hit the end with a mallet until you can see the groove for the clip above the seal.
Snap the clip back in place. Make sure it's seated in the groove.
Slide the dust seal in place and use the pvc pipe to seat it, (usually a couple whacks on the PVC with your hand will do it.
Slide the metal cap back in place, use the PVC pipe to seat it down, (place a rag between the cap and the end of the PVC if you don't want to scratch the cap.
Reassemble the forks and you're done.

Here's a vid of what he is saying...im a visual learner.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5JupVkhN92k

punkrod, thanks very helpful. Got it all done tonight, should be back together after I shave the legs

thanks guys, funny how the video or instructions I have heard don't tell you how much of a bitch it is when the fork tree bolts are so fucking tight and were a bitch to get off, same with the fork bolt on the bottom of the lowers or the top cap bolt, fuck who ever did this last time over tighten it way too much. That was the hardest part fighting rounded bolt heads all night then getting the seals and bushings on in 5 min...ha,ha

Pinch bolts on the trees can be a pain . I usually replace them with Allen bolts. As far as the bolt on the bottom that always should be broke loose with an air impact, it's always that tight. And then I'll tighten it with a cordless impact driver. Make sure it's the right size bit. Sports it's a 6mm.

I only purchase Leak-Proof brand fork seals. they are made so that you can install them with yer fingers and they have a lifetime guarantee. Couldn't be easier...

I took a piece of pvc pipe and split it vertically, tape up the end that contacts the seal, so theres no sharp edges. Tap it down with a mallet. Works awesome when you don't have a seal driver kit.

got it thanks for the tips guys..

can somone tell me if the 2 little screws at the bottom of my 39mm forks are they just for draining the oil from the forks?
do i need them ??and can they be welded up??
sorry if this is dumb question

The two little screws are just for draining and they can be welded up, but keep in mind your fork tubes are aluminum. Not everyone can weld aluminum.

thanks man

Hi

If you cant weld aluminium get some hex screws and put som loctite on.

Like this ones:
http://www.tamiya-model.com/shop/xra...1.html?image=0

/Mickey