Tue, 20 Jul 1999 14:34:01 +0200 - Message No. 6041
From: martin.franz@netway.at

Subject: AW: Re: Front Fork Problems


Hi !
> Could it be the stearing head?
> Could the bearing be too loose?
Both quite shure: yes

> Does anyone know a method to check it?
> Perhaps a hard break at a low speed?
low speed, hard pull on the brake -> clack -> stearing head bearing loose 
(or damaged).

> Is it possible to adjust it without special tools?
Yes. You need a 30 nut (or a 30 ring key). Open the upper fork clamps. 
Loosen the big 30 screw in the middle. with pull and shake/lift the 
stearing for about 1/2cm. Now you have access to the tensioning screw. If 
you don't have a low profil "hook" key, you can also carefully use a 
screwdriver/hammer.
The correct tension is applied, when you feel a soft resistance (with wheel 
unmounted, it should be one kg measured on the forkleg). Measure AFTER you 
have closed the 30 screw (with about 100NM). Unfortunatly, the upper screw 
influences the result, so you might not get the correct result on the first 
try :-))
When you have the correct tension, lift the bike over the sidestand, so 
that the front wheel comes free. Steer completyl to the right and let the 
staering go. It should gently move to the left and NOT stop/accelerate in 
the middle (net einrasten). If it does, it should be replaced.

best regards, Martin



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