Progressive springs, 1982 gs1100e Question

[cromwell1234]

Stupid question/new owner, anyway the PO, replaced the fork seals, oil and basically rebuilt the forks last year, he cheaped out and left the old springs (he only weighs 160) so they sag like a mother with me on them at 210lbs, anyway the adjusters are maxed out, still bottoms out, can I just pull the caps and add progressive springs from the top without taking it all apart since it has fresh oil and seals done (400 miles ago)--thanks any info helpfull, no manual yet.

[Steve]

That should not be a problem. The only difficulty you might encounter is properly setting the oil height.

Do you know what weight fluid was used before? Might not hurt to drain the fluid and replace with new, even though it has not been in there very long. That way you can assure yourselft exactly what is in there. Especially with the Progressives, you might want to use 15w fork oil.

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[cromwell1234]

just asked the PO, he stated that 15w was used should I drain some out since the progressive springs seam thicker.

[Nessism]

I'd verify the oil height by measurement when you pull the springs, top off as necessary and then install the new springs.

[MichaelHoward]

FWIW-
On my 2 82 1100E's the shop installed Progressive springs and did not add any oil. I never had a problem and I am about 195lbs.

[bonanzadave]

can I just pull the caps and add progressive springs from the top without taking it all apart

You might want to get a MC jack. If you use the centerstand, block up under the pipes to get the front wheel off the ground and extend the forks. Use some sturdy blocks cause your gonna have to do a little grunting to get the caps back on. Let ALL the fork air out and set the preload adjusters as soft as thell go. Youll have to undo the handlebar clamps (allan wrench) to get them out of the way. I like to use a big socket on an extension, on the caps, to gain a little more leverage. Grease up the adjusters in the caps. Dont cross thread them while pushing down and turning. I think youll see a noticeable difference.

[cromwell1234]

Any idea on what model/manufacturer number for the progressive fork springs, they list three different types , -for a 1982 gs1100ez at the bandit.

[Nessism]

Go to the Progressive Suspension website and look up the proper part number.

[hikermikem]

Any idea on what model/manufacturer number for the progressive fork springs, they list three different types , -for a 1982 gs1100ez at the bandit.

The progressive tech sheet calls for PS-1107 springs for '80-thru-'83 GS1100E.

Z1 carries them, decent prices. I just installed a set on my '82850GL.