75 roadholder rebuild.

Captain B · Jan 15, 2010

Hi all. Hope your holidays were great!

I am about to fix my leaky forks. I got an oldbritts leakproof seal kit. Can this be done with the fork on the bike? Better yet - what is the easiest way to do it? I've never had them apart before and am not familiar with suspension parts. Is there anything I need to know before pulling the trigger on this operation?

Thank you!

BrianK · Jan 15, 2010

Detailed instructions in the workshop manual, available online.

This link takes you right to the chapter you want:

http://rocbo.lautre.net/technique/norto ... p/101.html

Captain B · Mar 1, 2010

Well, I'm down to putting in the leakproof seals and all is going well so far. I have a few questions though. I've searched and not found the answers so here goes?

When installing the leak proof seals which way do they face? Solid side up or the side with all the little cuts? I'm guessing solid (smooth) side up, but the directions don't really say?

I've heard that you don't need the paper washer when using these seals. Does that mean you SHOULD NOT use them?

Is it still advisable to file grooves in the tops of the brass bushes to allow oil flow under the seal or has this been disproven? (seems like the paper washer would interfere with this concept)

swooshdave · Mar 1, 2010

Did you get instructions?

From British Cycle

Captain B · Mar 1, 2010

The instructions they came with were not nearly that complete. Thank you! 8)

norbsa48503 · Mar 2, 2010

Well Captain, we have sets that are going on with no leaks for 15 years of use with filed groves into the top of the high hat bushing. No paper gaskets and yes, the side with the voids goes down. I know of at least 20 sets in long operation but disproving anything on the web is possible. So keep fishing and you are sure to find the answer you seek.

highway · Mar 2, 2010

On Norton forks to install the seals, first,wrap a piece of plastic bag around the seal to ease it past the slider threads, then pull the plastic out. This trick prevents damage to the seals caused by pushing the seal past the threads.

Captain B · Mar 9, 2010

highway said:
On Norton forks to install the seals, first,wrap a piece of plastic bag around the seal to ease it past the slider threads, then pull the plastic out. This trick prevents damage to the seals caused by pushing the seal past the threads.

Used a piece of fertilizer bag. That worked amazingly well! :mrgreen:

Captain B · Mar 11, 2010

Took my first ride of 2010 today

Everything seems good. I didn't snap the fork dust covers on yet in case I have to take the thing back apart, but now I'm in a pinch. I can not get the dust covers to get into place. Man are they tight! Is there a trick? Do you have to heat them to soften them up or something? They just won't stretch at all :?

CanukNortonNut · Mar 11, 2010

Hey Captain
Get a Hairdryer and put it on high for a bit until the boot is warm and then give it a push on.
Should go on once the boot get soft and pliable.
Regards,
CNN

Captain B · Mar 13, 2010

A little heat from the ol' heat gun (on low setting) and she slid right on!

75 roadholder rebuild.

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