Just the fork seal? Or is this more serious?

[TreyE]

Hey all I just recently came across a really good deal on a 2008 1125R that had been low sided but had minor damage (scratch on swingarm and small one on upper frame almost underneath front right fairing). Anywho, there was damage to the front fork, they werent bent but were damaged. This is pictures of the front right fork. It is leaking FYI. Think its just a fork seal or will this entail a bigger repair? It doesnt look like its leaking from anywhere but the seal. Thanks
Trey

 

[TreyE]

Oh and here's a full body shot

 

[strmvt]

I'd say needs a new fork that damage may hinder seal replacement when you got to repair or change the oil.

 

[TreyE]

Don't think the dealer can push it back out or anything?

 

[strmvt]

not sure man I doubt it though not like a dent in a fender or door thats solid metal. It wouldn't stop me from buying it though a fork is cheap and easy enough to get

 

[dave_xb12r]

Yeah, dealers don't do blacksmith work. Your easiest fix is going to be a new fork tube. Just replace it so you don't have to worry about it.

 

[BuellerPilot]

Looks dented, that'll make replacing fork seals pointless as it'll probably continue to weep. As stated, wouldn't stop me from buying it either, get another fork leg and ride!

BTW, I'd replace that brake line too. Even though it may not show damage, if it was hit hard enough to dent a fork tube, that line is compromised. Not only are those under pressure when you apply brakes (which should still work fine under pressure), but when you release they suck back, and if that had been pinched, it may collapse and hinder brake fluid flow back and forth and could act as a check valve. Just cheap insurance for a very important part of the bike (BRAKES!).

~Mike....

 

[SprintST]

new fork. It would require welding up the aluminum and remachining the seal retention area

not easy, not worth doing


and besides the seal area, you've got a huge crack running up the leg

 

[BuellerPilot]

I think your mistaking the anti-rubbing stickers as a crack, but yes, replace the fork.

~Mike....

 

[TreyE]

Thanks all.. ended up being cheaper ($170) to buy a new fork on ebay than replace the fork seal by the dealer ($190) anyways. Plus I can replace the fork myself.
Trey

 

[SprintST]

Yes Mike, thanks. I was mistaking that