questions about 9SL forks on a 9s

[bassX6]

I bought some forks off ebay, for the XB9s that I have, they came in and are in amazing condition, I plan on changing the oil and seals in them so they are almost like new. but after reading about the forks and the differences in some models, I think the listing for 9s forks that I bought were really the SL. they are shorter than my current ones.

so, my question is, are the parts interchangeable, can I use the presumably longer inner tube on the newer shiny outer tube?

and lastly, if i use SL forks on the front without any modification, how much will lowering the front like that change the riding characteristics?

I want to change the oil and fork seals myself, so advice concerning that would be very welcomed, required tools, methods, and such.

thank you all for coming, I hope to learn a lot

 

[user_deleted]

and lastly, if i use SL forks on the front without any modification, how much will lowering the front like that change the riding characteristics?
substantially. and none of it good.

here's the qualifier that i also posted up during your recent "red loctite on spark plug threads" dead cylinder situation.
NOT intended to criticize but intended to avoid potential catastrophic results: your historical postings indicate you have neither the skills, tools or knowledge to perform showa cartridge fork work. google "showa fork rebuild services" and find an outfit close to you OR call a local dealership/dirt bike specialist and see if they'll perform the cartridge and tube swap along with anything else needed. money well spent...isn't terribly expensive...work not for the novice.

 

[bassX6]

This is true, I am a novice at it, I do want to learn though, eventually to get to the point where I can work on these things myself as I get the tools I need.
but for now, I'll take that advice until I can learn before I do anything

When I call or go to one of those dealers, I ask them if they can swap the SL tube on the cartridge of the S?

 

[user_deleted]

This is true, I am a novice at it, I do want to learn though, eventually to get to the point where I can work on these things myself as I get the tools I need.
but for now, I'll take that advice until I can learn before I do anything

When I call or go to one of those dealers, I ask them if they can swap the SL tube on the cartridge of the S?

i believe you're making a wise decision. XB front forks are Showa brand standard cartridge forks. your 2003 are the slimmer OD slider assembly variety but makes no difference regarding disassembly/service/reassembly. and yes....ask whomever you speak to if they can transfer the tubes assuming they fit and i'm thinking they will. while doing that service have them install new seals if required and also 10wt. top shelf fork oil. each fork holds approx. 1 pint measured from the top in vertical position.
admire your desire to learn these bikes and though the learning curve is straight vertical for a novice i always recommend someone such as yourself starts the learning process with things like oil and filter changes, air filter service, brake pad installation and system flushing...working with and thru the perishables. click the link below for the basics of how involved these cartridge forks are and the tools required. IMO beyond the scope of what you're capable of. good luck with the project.

https://www.twinmotorcycles.nl/artikelen.asp?cid=7&aid=289

 

[AZmidget91]

The outer tube should be the sane, as long as you're bike is an 03-04. If not, then you really should return the forks. You would need the matching lower triple tree.

If you bought it on eBay, and it is a SL not an S fork. You can return it and even shipping will be covered both ways.