Installing Racetech Springs??

[oldschool55]

So, I am in the process of installing new fork springs and seals on my non adjustable 00 750, and have hit a speed bump. 


Do I need to make spacers to compensate for the shorter spring length?  They are about 2.5" shorter than the stock springs.  If so, do I just cut a piece of PVC the same length to make up the difference? 

Can anyone help me out?

[scott_araujo]

Yup, you do.  You should measure the stock spring and spacer together, then cut your spacer so that the new spring and spacer measure about the same total length.  Maybe a little more if you want to add some preload.  RaceTech should have included some nice aluminum tubing and steel washers in the spring kit.  I just got a set and asked for extra spacer material when I ordered, they gave me a nice piece ot T6061 aluminum about 2 feet long.  If they didn't include any call up and ask for some.  You can use PVC or whatever but you want a steel washer between the soft spacer material and anything it comes in touch with, spring, base of the shock.  Hard edges can eat into the soft spacer material and leave shavings inside your fork.

Scott

[oldschool55]

Yup, you do.  You should measure the stock spring and spacer together, then cut your spacer so that the new spring and spacer measure about the same total length.  Maybe a little more if you want to add some preload.  RaceTech should have included some nice aluminum tubing and steel washers in the spring kit.  I just got a set and asked for extra spacer material when I ordered, they gave me a nice piece ot T6061 aluminum about 2 feet long.  If they didn't include any call up and ask for some.  You can use PVC or whatever but you want a steel washer between the soft spacer material and anything it comes in touch with, spring, base of the shock.  Hard edges can eat into the soft spacer material and leave shavings inside your fork.

Scott

Didn't get the aluminum spacers, just several steel washers. 

Does it really make a difference if they are PVC or aluminum spacers?  Also, do I need a spring compressor to install these?  OR should I be able to get it done without?

Thanks!   

[scott_araujo]

Nope, PVC works just fine if you can find the right diameter.  My springs are 38mm in diameter and I got some 1 3/8" aluminum tubing.  I'm sure you can find some locally or on the net if you can't get the right size PVC.  You probably won't need a spring compressor.  There's a threaded rod that comes out of the cartridge.  At the top is the fork cap, a lock nut, and a dimpled washer with a slot in it.  Break apart the fork cap and lock nut and remove the cap, set aside.  Now just grab the spring with your hand and compress it a bit, you should be able to slide the washer aside and remove it.  Now the spring will come right out.  An extra pair of hands might help.  You'd only need a compressor if there was lots or preload to deal with and there isn't.

Here's an idea of what you'll be dealing with:
Change motorcycle fork seals part 1 (of 2) cartridge type
More than you'll need to do but shows you what's involved.

And f you need to order some:
http://www.onlinemetals.com/merchant.cfm?id=71&step=2&top_cat=60[/url]

This is really a pretty simple mod, don't be intimidated.  Make sure you use a torque wrench on all the fork fasteners: too loose and it may come apart, too tight and you may crush the tubes. 

Scott