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Filled Fork Damper Holes /5

Posted: Sun Oct 16, 2022 9:30 am
by Red
I am pulling apart a 1970s R75/5 front end which I was told had about 80k miles on it. Goal is to rebuild for a new project. Ran in to something odd, it seems as if someone has filled in some of the damper holes. Has anyone come across this? Both damper rods seem to be organically missing a set of holes and then an additional set were filled in. :?
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Re: Filled Fork Damper Holes /5

Posted: Sun Oct 16, 2022 10:00 am
by srankin
While I haven't any experience with /5 bikes, I can say I have never seen this before.

Who knows what form Previous Owner's Disease will take? It makes me wonder what he was thinking? Was it a part swap? A supposed performance enhancement? Only the guy who filled the holes in knows.

Personally, I would look to correct it either by drilling out the welds, if you have the ability to do so. Or, find a replacement set. I don't like weird POD issues. Good Luck, St.

Re: Filled Fork Damper Holes /5

Posted: Sun Oct 16, 2022 10:16 am
by schrader7032
Welcome! How has the front end been working? Some will say that the front end of a BMW Airhead has too much dive under braking. So maybe this was to help that. Most people will adjust the front end ride by changing fluid viscosity or adding more or less fluid from spec. I'd be inclined to run with it unless you don't like the way it rides now.

Re: Filled Fork Damper Holes /5

Posted: Fri Oct 21, 2022 6:13 pm
by jimcarrr100rs
I heard that was a modification for newer forks.

Re: Filled Fork Damper Holes /5

Posted: Thu Feb 02, 2023 1:17 pm
by Gumby
I believe Snowbum has been doing this modification.
Check has website for better information

Re: Filled Fork Damper Holes /5

Posted: Thu Feb 02, 2023 6:38 pm
by Bmwwrench
Brazing one or more holes in the /5-/6 damper rod is a fairly common mod. BMW reduced the number of holes as the years went by, and I consider 3 holes to be optimum. This gives a controlled ride without being harsh. To further improve the /5 fork, install "floating damper nozzles" and ensure that the assembly-particularly the brace-is straight.