[buddygunzz]

I'm going to replace my fork seals this weekend and was wondering if i also need to install spacers? I do have air shocks and was going to use atf for a softer ride in the cold weather.

 

[81custom]

Measure the length of the springs against the manual - see if they have sagged - if so - either replace them with new springs OR install some spacers - to add some stiffness back to the suspension.

 

[ramprat06]

Yes, spacers would stiffen the ride. I'm sure there are many combinations of set ups. ATF/10wt/15wt/20wt + soft springs/stiff springs + spacer/no spacer + air pressure/non-air forks. One common factor is that you need to make sure you don't over tax the seals in the forks no matter what combo you decide on. Really all depends on your riding preference and conditions. Tires will factor in, as will brakes.

 

[buddygunzz]

finished the fork seals and went realy smooth... thanks for the help.

 

[gethbane]

What did you use for spacers? I wanted to add some to mine but the 1/2" pvc coupler wouldn't fit in the fork tubes.

 

[Jay Little buffalo]

I just did fork seals in my cx500, my springs were sagging by about an inch i felt thats not so bad so i just left them compaired to what it was the ride is much smoother even with the handling however before i did this the PO had the springs in upside down & the seals in backwards which caused a leak if they are out by less then an inch its a tuff call at the end of the season i will replace with new ones we shall see

 

[buddygunzz]

i did not use any spacers, I measured the spring and they were just under spec. so I just put them back together.

 

[Jay Little buffalo]

Let us know how the ride feels now i noticed a big improvment on mine and it does not bottom out now but it is not like super stiff feels good to me and cornering is sweet now

 

[Stubby]

What did you use for spacers? I wanted to add some to mine but the 1/2" pvc coupler wouldn't fit in the fork tubes.

I had the same problem. I tried using the white 1/2" pvc couplers, but it wouldn't fit in the fork tubes, as you said. I went back to the hardware store and got the tan colored pvc couplers and some washers that are the same diameter as the springs (I took a small spring with me). I installed the springs and then a washer and then the 1/2" pvc coupler. I had to have help to get the caps on, but we got it. I rode today with no air in the forks. I think I am going to add air and see if there is a noticeable difference.

 

[Jay Little buffalo]

I wonder if 1/2 inch conduit or copper pipe would work interesting about the pvc though does that work in all forks like that. Honda says the make a progressive spring that eliminates the big and small spring for 88.00 but i wonder if that would make it to stiff I am thinking to stiff might be as rough as bottoming out maybe? smoother the ride the smoother the control no?