Fork Seal Bullet

Joined
Sep 4, 2013
Messages
8,108
Location
Cleveland
Bike
2010 ST1300
I'm planning to install new fork seals and Gold Valves soon. A couple of places recommend using a fork seal bullet (plastic collar that goes on the top of the fork) so the seal is not damaged as it is installed on the fork tube.

Can I get away with cleaning the fork tube and wrapping it with electrical tape and lubing the tape? What size are the fork tubes should I decide to get a Motion Pro fork seal bullet?
 
Joined
Mar 20, 2016
Messages
1,201
Location
Auckland, New Zealand
Bike
2005 ST1300
STOC #
8901
Pretty sure that 1300 uses 45mm fork tubes.

I use the corner cut off a plastic bag over the top edge of fork tubes when I slide the seal over. Some red rubber grease or silicone lube is also useful.
 

Byron

Moderator
Joined
Mar 3, 2006
Messages
2,312
Location
KY
STOC #
6091
Actually, in my experience it isn't the top of the tube that causes the trouble but small stone dings in the exposed area of the tubes. Inspect carefully and address any issues. A little lube and care go a long way.
 
Joined
Mar 13, 2012
Messages
5,046
Location
soCal
Bike
'97 ST1100
STOC #
687
sounds like a solution to a non-existant problem, I've always just slid the seal over the top of the tube and never had any issues. I second Byron's advice about feeling the lower tube for any nicks.
 
Joined
Jan 8, 2011
Messages
7,062
Location
Arizona
Bike
2007 Honda ST1300A
Follow Byron's advice about checking/dressing the rock chips in the chrome (2000 wet/dry-used very lightly).
You can also use a condom over the end of the tube.
 

dduelin

Tune my heart to sing Thy grace
Site Supporter
Joined
Feb 11, 2006
Messages
9,640
Location
Jacksonville
Bike
GL1800 R1200RT NC700
2024 Miles
006739
STOC #
6651
After cleaning the tubes just wipe the seal with a bit of fork oil. It will slip right over and down.
 
Joined
Mar 21, 2012
Messages
535
Location
Norfolk, VA
Bike
2019 Goldwing Tour
If your really worried about any digs or the such use a few inches of a milk container (or similar) cut a few inch strip and wrap around the fork, little fork oil on it, slip the seal onto the plastic and slide the plastic down until you have to slide the seal off the plastic. Good to go.
 
Top Bottom