GP Fork Link Removal Help

[ROClarke]

I am not stupid, but f*****d if I can see what use these spring compressors are for releasing the fork links, it is as though the GP forks are too wide at the bottom, or am I tackling it incorrectly.
The forks are still in the scoot by the way and I do not want to remove just want to replace the fork links.

[HxPaul]

Use a ring spanner to compress the spring and while holding it under compression release the bottom buffer.Once the buffer is out release the compression and remove the ball bearings,the links should come out.

[ROClarke]

Use a ring spanner to compress the spring and while holding it under compression release the bottom buffer.Once the buffer is out release the compression and remove the ball bearings,the links should come out.

Cheers mate, done that but it is still a bitch, it is coming though.

[Storkfoot]

......The forks are still in the scoot by the way and I do not want to remove just want to replace the fork links.

I have never entertained doing this job with the forks still in the scoot. Only ever done it with the forks out in a big vice. Then, it is pretty straightforward.

[ROClarke]

I cannot get the ball out as it is the earlier fixed ball to rod type grrrrrrrrrrr !

[ROClarke]

......The forks are still in the scoot by the way and I do not want to remove just want to replace the fork links.

I have never entertained doing this job with the forks still in the scoot. Only ever done it with the forks out in a big vice. Then, it is pretty straightforward.

I like a challenge lol !

[HxPaul]

Someones fitted them and you'll find that the links are from a non GP.

[ROClarke]

Someones fitted them and you'll find that the links are from a non GP.

Yes,will be interesting too compare them when I eventually get them out.
Having a break from it now and having a beer,great thing about this time of year.

[mcbrid]

If you have the fixed ball type that's when you need the spring compressor.

With the bottom rubber out you should be able to remove the link bolts and let the link float. Remove the grease nipple if fitted

Then put the screw locators of the compressor into the hole where the link bolts were and use the fork to compress the spring enough so you can wangle the link itself out.

Don't screw the locators in too much or they will stop you bringing the link out - just enough to locate

As storkfoot said easier with the forks out

[ROClarke]

Thanks MCbird,but I am struggling to get the locators in the bolt holes when located near the ball,it is a though the forks on the tool are too short.

[mcbrid]

Hmm....may well be

Some of the fork tools are a bit 'not to spec' I've heard - and some are made of cheese

It can be a bit of a fiddle but the spring should move a bit ? Try the tool both ways as well. Mine is a bit two sided

[ROClarke]

Yes, mine is 2 sided with an offset.
Finally did it last night after giving it one more try !
Now I know the tool will work the other side should be a doddle lol !
Thanks for your help Mcbird.

[Mag]

Forks out, long ring spanner and a racket strap from spanner to top of forks. Will hold link under tension and free your hands.

[ROClarke]

Forks out, long ring spanner and a racket strap from spanner to top of forks. Will hold link under tension and free your hands.

Nice 1.

[grandpa]

Hi ROClarke
You could make a fork spring compressor.Heres one I made earlier .(Get the 30mm bar from hardware or B and Q about a fiver). It frees up both hands.Dont forget to check piston rods are straight and not bent.
viewtopic.php?f=10&t=144&p=538&hilit=fork+spring#p538
Good luck and happy new year everybody.
Grandpa

[ROClarke]

Hi ROClarke
You could make a fork spring compressor.Heres one I made earlier .(Get the 30mm bar from hardware or B and Q about a fiver). It frees up both hands.Dont forget to check piston rods are straight and not bent.
viewtopic.php?f=10&t=144&p=538&hilit=fork+spring#p538
Good luck and happy new year everybody.
Grandpa

The tool worked in the end thanks, yours looks good though, I am thinking of developing something to push the tyre on to the rims when using standard wheels, there does not seem to be anything available, we had some good tools in karting for breaking the beads but nothing for putting them on it was down to technique using just hands.
I forgot to check the spring lengths grandpa as I did them individually,doh! and yes the rods where slightly bent, I straightened them to a fashion in a vice, should have renewed them I guess.

[bazza3004]

Done a couple of link changes with forks still in frame. Had the same issue as you woth the spring compressor not quite reaching the pivot bolt holes but it wasnt far off and i managed to grind the 'U' a bit deeper where it locates on the spring rod/ball. This give me the extra bit to allow the bolts to locate in fork boots