Stiff fork travel after Cartridge exchange

[2and3cylinders]

here ya go...

A GREAT DEAL on Everything you need except seal driver, see below below

https://www.amazon.com/Service-Inverted-Forks-Traxxion-Dynamics/dp/B08V6Z3JT2/ref=sr_1_4?keywords=motorcycle+fork+tools&qid=1680915806&sr=8-4&ufe=app_do%3Aamzn1.fos.006c50ae-5d4c-4777-9bc0-4513d670b6bc

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09X2XMJVN/ref=sspa_dk_detail_0?psc=1&pd_rd_i=B09X2XMJVN&pd_rd_w=SUeLI&content-id=amzn1.sym.d81b167d-1f9e-48b6-87d8-8aa5e473ea8c&pf_rd_p=d81b167d-1f9e-48b6-87d8-8aa5e473ea8c&pf_rd_r=QN5R8DXSCQFPQ40KAQ7T&pd_rd_wg=H9En1&pd_rd_r=aeb8fcbb-58f0-4243-9f55-463dacb849d2&s=automotive&sp_csd=d2lkZ2V0TmFtZT1zcF9kZXRhaWxfdGhlbWF0aWM&spLa=ZW5jcnlwdGVkUXVhbGlmaWVyPUEyODlNS1FHRUNWWTc3JmVuY3J5cHRlZElkPUEwNjQyMTc2MzBPTUlINzhGMkpaTSZlbmNyeXB0ZWRBZElkPUEwNjI3NjMzMUhPVkFBWTI5UFkwViZ3aWRnZXROYW1lPXNwX2RldGFpbF90aGVtYXRpYyZhY3Rpb249Y2xpY2tSZWRpcmVjdCZkb05vdExvZ0NsaWNrPXRydWU=

or 

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07R6HH4XV/ref=sspa_dk_detail_1?psc=1&pd_rd_i=B07R6HH4XV&pd_rd_w=SUeLI&content-id=amzn1.sym.d81b167d-1f9e-48b6-87d8-8aa5e473ea8c&pf_rd_p=d81b167d-1f9e-48b6-87d8-8aa5e473ea8c&pf_rd_r=QN5R8DXSCQFPQ40KAQ7T&pd_rd_wg=H9En1&pd_rd_r=aeb8fcbb-58f0-4243-9f55-463dacb849d2&s=automotive&sp_csd=d2lkZ2V0TmFtZT1zcF9kZXRhaWxfdGhlbWF0aWM&spLa=ZW5jcnlwdGVkUXVhbGlmaWVyPUEyODlNS1FHRUNWWTc3JmVuY3J5cHRlZElkPUEwNjQyMTc2MzBPTUlINzhGMkpaTSZlbmNyeXB0ZWRBZElkPUEwNjU4Mzg3MzY3N1RUSUhUUUFESCZ3aWRnZXROYW1lPXNwX2RldGFpbF90aGVtYXRpYyZhY3Rpb249Y2xpY2tSZWRpcmVjdCZkb05vdExvZ0NsaWNrPXRydWU=

FYI SOURCE

https://www.reactivesuspension.com/product-section.php?subcategory_id=10

[sandman900]

Excellent, a clear simpler and cheaper alternative. Question is- if you're doing this alone, how do you hold the fork leg down for support? Critical to hold it securely, so that you can apply pressure with this tool. Square tubing full length support type tool for $80 more. The chinese version even uses RaceTech's same part number!

I've disassembled forks before, most easy, some difficult. The tool choice depends on how much tension the springs are. If not much, that simple ring tool will work. If Tracer 900GT fork springs happen to be the opposite, then the full length compressor tool is the way to go. I don't know yet. Did you do this yourself with that ring tool?

Edited April 9, 2023 by sandman900

[2and3cylinders]

I'll have posted pics of my method but will do so again asap.

In short I use an ancient B&D Workmate adjustable folding clamp table & ratcheting tie downs...

Edit:  In late 2018 I rebuilt my forks utilizing custom cartridges, adjustable compression valve & needle & springs (Sonic .95) from Forks by Matt (who unfortunately is dropped out shortly thereafter). I installed SKF fork seals and dust covers but felt they were too stiff and went back to OEM.  I also polish the sliders at every rebuild.

I blended my own fluid to 16 pSt

In late 21 when I did my last fluid change (usually at least every other year depending on mileage), as I always do, I drain & fill then flush 3 times with inexpensive ATF & refilled I used Torco RFF 5 wt which is 16 cSt @ 40C.

I hope my photos help you and others.  It's a PITA job but not difficult but the proper tools, cleanliness and patience are required.

[sandman900]

Thank you so much for the info and added pics- it's a great help. Seeing them, it makes my decision easy to go with the full length square tubing compressor. I've been frustrated before doing fork disassembly with somewhat improvised tools. Riding season's underway here, and I'm not leaving my forks off at a suspension place for this service, so I'll invest in the proper tools. Again- much appreciate your advice and I hope it helps others.

[2and3cylinders]

 

 

Don't know if it's worth my time to make a compressor like in the video but it's pretty cool he added a linear controller!

vesrus https://www.amazon.com/Race-Tech-Fork-Spring-Compressor/dp/B000GV6UIE/ref=asc_df_B000GV6UIE?tag=bngsmtphsnus-20&linkCode=df0&hvadid=80608063550932&hvnetw=s&hvqmt=e&hvbmt=be&hvdev=c&hvlocint=&hvlocphy=&hvtargid=pla-4584207589812638&psc=1

This one's clever but needs some mods for lateral stability but CHEAP!

https://www.vitalmx.com/forums/Non-Moto,21/My-home-made-fork-spring-compressor,1251991

and especially this https://www.amazon.com/Spring-Compressor-Current-Sport-Racers/dp/B0BLC5DKBB/ref=sr_1_16?keywords=Motorcycle+Spring+Compressor&qid=1681142065&sr=8-16&ufe=app_do%3Aamzn1.fos.f5122f16-c3e8-4386-bf32-63e904010ad0