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Front axle dilemma
Front axle dilemma
The front forks were badly worn out with some oddball main springs, old black fork oil, leaking caps, sidecar extra springs, the bumpers were completely disintegrated, and the top plate was bent in two axes, likely from an accident. I fully overhauled the forks, replaced the top plate, and they now easily slide up and down (without springs), and when I install the axle, I can turn the axle at all positions as the fork is compressed and lengthened. When I test rode the bike, the front end feels much better.
The dilemma is that when re-installing the front wheel, it is very difficult to get the axle to slide through the left fork leg. It feels like it is hitting something. The axle slides through the wheel bearing easily (off the bike) and slides through both fork legs perfectly without the wheel), but when I mount the wheel, I can pass the axle through the right fork and the wheel bearing, but it binds as it exits the wheel bearing and is a bitch to get through the fork leg. I'm concerned that a flat repair on the road would be nearly impossible.
What am I missing or doing wrong?
Harold
- schrader7032
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Re: Front axle dilemma
'78 R100/7 '69 R69S '52 R25/2
Fast. Neat. Average. Friendly. Good. Good.
Re: Front axle dilemma
Thanks for the reply. Perhaps removing the calipers will make it easier next time, along with gently wiggling the wheel while pushing the axle.
My R1200GS axle slides right through the fork legs and wheel with no drama. The R90S axle thread is a chore.
Harold
- srankin
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Re: Front axle dilemma
Anyway, maybe viewing them will help. St.
https://brook.reams.me/bmw-motorcycle-r ... ont-forks/
- San Arthur
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Re: Front axle dilemma
I had the same problem. I also have an 76 R90S and I follow also same recommendations plus William Plam's videos.
This was super helpful, videos 15 - 17
boxer2valve BMW Restoration and Parts Supplier
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HXfzr9wS3RE
Good luck
'58 R26 '76 R90S '88 R100RS '94 R100GS/PD
- srankin
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