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Track days question

Buellxb Forum

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stamen

Well-known member
Joined
Apr 20, 2012
Messages
631
Location
Milwaukee, WI
Hey looking to go to the track this weekend, but my left fork has been leaking for a few months now. Would it be 'unsafe' to track the Buell with a leaking fork? I'm worried about passing inspection and safety.

Thanks [up]
 
I would get the seals fixed prior to doing a track day. It is a safety not just for you, but other riders as well.
 
You'll get the most out of your time on the track if you're bike is functioning properly. It would be wise to fix it soon, and not just for the track. Having one leg low on fluid can cause some weird braking tendencies.
 
It's cheap to fix yourself.
Click to expand...
Yup, $15 for fork seals, another $15 for fork oil, and $30 for a fork seal driver if you don't have one (a piece of PVC pipe also works!). You should be able to do it in under 2hrs.
 
Thanks everyone for your input, I was planning to do it anyway, but just wanted to double check. I wouldn't want to pose any danger to other riders or me.

Should I replace both seals when I do this?
Where is a good place to buy the fork seals and fork oil? I've heard of allballs.
What size pvc pipe will work?
 
If you're changing one, I'd go ahead and change the other while you're at it. If you don't have time though, pick up a seal mate tool at any cycle gear or other motorcycle shop. Only about $2 or $3. Quite often it's all it takes to get a bit of dirt and grime out of the seal and fix the leak.
 
If you don't have time though, pick up a seal mate tool at any cycle gear or other motorcycle shop. Only about $2 or $3.
Click to expand...
Yup, VERY good point. Your seal may be fine, just dirty.
Even cheaper is a business card, or old piece of 35mm camera film. Just slide it up under the seal and work it around several times to clear away any crap that might be causing the leak.
 
Where do I buy fork oil from and specifically what kind?
Click to expand...
I'll probably get flamed for saying this, but back in the day, ATF was considered perfectly acceptable as fork oil. Manufacturers even recommended it in their repair manuals!

I still use ATF. It's equivalent to 10w fork oil and about 1/4 the price! If you are not comfortable with ATF, any motorcycle parts counter can sell you fork oil...
 

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