1955 Model D150 - Front suspension springs & trailing links

[Big Al]

Can the front suspension springs and trailing links be fitted without using a special tool (42621 preloading device as shown on Page 93 of the Innocenti "Instructions for Repair Shops 150d-ld" ) ?
They came out easily, but getting them back is another matter!

[jbcollier]

I thought I had that manual but I can't find it right now as the D was quite a few projects in the past. I do not remember using a special tool though. Could you post a picture of manual page?

[Big Al]

Sorry John but I have difficulty posting photos on this forum.
The tool lies parallel with the fork tube. At one end it is clamped to the tube just above the welded on lever/trailing link housing. It is hinged so that, as you operate the handle, the other end compresses the spring.
It is nothing like the compressing tool for the later Li Series, etc.
It's very similar to this:
https://k2customs.co.uk/products/fork-s ... essor-tool
Regards, Alan

[Big Al]

John
I had a reply from someone here in the UK who said they did this without any special tool, but couldn't remember how, as they did it many years ago.
I have just tried, and succeeded in getting both springs back in using no more than a wide bladed screwdriver, and a strong pair of arms.
Positioning the splined part of the lever in the upper hole first made it fairly easy to slide the ball end at the bottom into position once the piston was pushed upwards with the screwdriver.
More spring tension is created when you fully screw in the bottom plug.
The fact that a special tensioner tool had been made available made me think it would be tricky without one.

[jbcollier]

Pretty sure that is exactly what I did as well.