Fork Springs. Free Length.

[Redman]

For my GS1100GK the Suzuki manual spec sheet says that the free length limit is 416mm. Spec sheet just states the limit, without any further explanation. Elsewhere in the instructions it says if free length is shorter than the service limit of 416mm (16.4inches) then spring should be replaced.

SHorter? Free Length; shorter?

I thought that if a coil spring is fatigued, that the free length will be longer. Will be shorther (compress more) under load, but be longer when completley unloaded.

Clutch springs are checked by measuring the free length, and need to be replaced if longer than spec service limit, right? But for fork spring it says if shorter.

[bonanzadave]

??.........?? Sorry, Ya lost me. I put in the progressives. Easy answer.

[Commodus]

As far as I understand, coil springs can fatigue in either direction. Since our forks do not extend, the sort of fatigue that happens to us is in the 'shorter' direction.

[bwringer]

i will personally guarantee that after 25 years, your original fork springs are sagged-out junk.

Replace ASAP with Progressives.

[Redman]

You know, Brian, Yah, you are right.

I got it apart. Suppose I should.

But hey, maybe they were replaced just a few years ago.
And I have already spent 150 on this, and 125 on that, and 150 on the other thing. And still need tires.

The free length measured 17 1/4", and I first thought, "yep, fatiqued". But then the Suzuki manaul says to replace if shorter than the 16.4 service limit.

[salty_monk]

The factory length is 421mm the 416mm is the limit.

Clutch springs you measure the length too, too short is shot, not too long.

I've just done both jobs. Both clutch springs & fork springs were in spec in length but they were still both junk.... I replaced both & the difference is incredible.

Dan

[Redman]

Well Okay, Brian, Okay, Dan,

There is another $82 for this project.
Just ordered a set of Progressive springs from Dennis Kirk. Was about $4 more than Bike Bandit, but in stock just acrost the lake, should have Wednesday.

Thanks

[bonanzadave]

Old stock - New progressive

Old stock - 18"
New Progressive - 18.125"

[ta473]

fork springs

can you tell me the progressive part # you ordered. i found the springs from two different places and they both had different part #'s.i just want to get the right ones the first time. thanks harry

[Steve]

The Progressives might only be 1/8" longer, but they are STRONGER, so they will work MUCH better. \\/


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