Removing fork slider collar

maylar · Feb 4, 2020

Preferred tool for removing the threaded collar that holds the fork seal and bushing in?
Chain wrench?

dynodave · Feb 4, 2020

maylar said:
Preferred tool for removing the threaded collar that holds the fork seal and bushing in?
Chain wrench?

Absolutely #1 choice.
After removal, I ocassionally drill holes in the sides for a pin wrench.
Marks from a big pipe wrench show it was previously visited by a HACK.

APRRSV · Feb 4, 2020

Hi Dave,
Won't a "chain" wrench leave marks? (edit) Unless some insulating material is wrapped around collar.

Ed

dynodave said:
Absolutely #1 choice.
After removal, I ocassionally drill holes in the sides for a pin wrench.
Marks from a big pipe wrench show it was previously visited by a HACK.

acadian · Feb 4, 2020

If you have access to a mill, machine two opposing flats for a large adjustable wrench, leave a 1/4" unmilled area closest to the threads so you can still secure a gaiter

marshg246 · Feb 4, 2020

maylar said:
Preferred tool for removing the threaded collar that holds the fork seal and bushing in?
Chain wrench?

I use a rubber strap wrench - doesn't leave a mark and works every time. This is the set I bought: https://www.amazon.com/Craftsman-Piece-Rubber-Wrench-9-45570/dp/B00K92810A/ref=sr_1_1?keywords=Craftsman+2+Piece+16+Inch+Rubber+Strap+Wrench+Set,+9-45570&qid=1580835922&sr=8-1

marinatlas · Feb 4, 2020

A cheap oil filter adjustable wrench and a piece of rubber from a tyre tube........works for me.

Mike40M · Feb 4, 2020

The Manx seal holders has two radial 4mm deep drilled holes. Easy with a tool similar to https://www.britishmcparts.com/tool...l-refitting-tool-61-6017-60-0527-61-6060.html
I drill these holes in all my Roadholder fork seal holders.
But not any help first time you dismantle your fork.

maylar · Feb 4, 2020

I have rubber strap wrenches, but didn't think I could get enough torque with one. They stretch. But I'll try that before going with the chain. Thanks.
This isn't the first time the forks have been apart, and I'm pretty sure I used a chain wrench the last time. Yes, it leaves marks, but the gaiter covers them.

dynodave · Feb 4, 2020

I should have been more thorough of the description of MY chain wrench. Vice grip 20R:

NOT the conventional chain wrench that comes up in a google search:

Yes these are just as bad as a pipe wrench:
Some have luck with a strap wrench, but that is not assured.
I have tried several different types of strap wrench that failed and my 20R or the brutal pipe wrench are the final cure for the stubborn ones.
On commando the mild steel metal does not suffer under the 20R but since I also work on chrome tubing covered fork covers(featherbed) a universal tool like the 20R works on those too without screwing up the chrome. Again a strap wrench success is not assured. Even aftermarket aluminum holders come off with the 20R with only a minor deformation at each contact point.

marshg246 · Feb 4, 2020

maylar said:
I have rubber strap wrenches, but didn't think I could get enough torque with one. They stretch. But I'll try that before going with the chain. Thanks.
This isn't the first time the forks have been apart, and I'm pretty sure I used a chain wrench the last time. Yes, it leaves marks, but the gaiter covers them.

If it doesn't come loose easily, wrap a wet rag around the fork against the nut and heat the aluminum of the slider. Doesn't take much heat then try the strap wrench. The wrenches I have stretch some but I can still put a LOT of torque on the nut .

maylar · Feb 4, 2020

dynodave said:
I should have been more thorough of the description of MY chain wrench. Vice grip 20R:

Thanks, I just ordered one from eBay. Mine is the conventional type.

Ron L · Feb 4, 2020

For a Commando, I clamp the seal holder in a 6 inch vise and turn the lower leg with a bar through the axle hole. Heat the leg with a heat gun or a MAPP gas torch and I have yet to find one I can't separate. For forks with chromed seal holders, I have a large strap wrench with a rubberized woven fiber strap that will usually get the job done. If that doesn't work the chrome on the seal holder is usually in such bad shape that it won't be reused anyway so it's back to the vise and new seal holders. Never tried the chain wrench, but sounds like a reasonable alternative.

The Buckeye Rider · Feb 4, 2020

I have used the strap wrench for years with a twist; I cut a piece of fine sandpaper the width of the collar and long enough to go around almost twice. Then fold the sandpaper in half so the grit is out on both side. Then fold an inch on both ends in again. Hold the paper on the collar and apply the strap wrench. The sandpaper keeps the wrench from slipping, the extra fold on the ends keeps the sandpaper slipping on itself. Works every time for me.
Wrench On
Dave

jseng1 · Feb 4, 2020

I use a nylon strap wrench - barely enough grip so I add a strip of rubber or sandpaper.

HRD · Feb 4, 2020

A simple /cheap way is to use a large Jubilee clamp (hose clamp ),tightened around said collar then tap with a hammer in the direction (ACW ) to undo the collar. Use the screw head of the Jubilee clamp as the anvil for the hammer taps.
Paul

NPeteN · Feb 4, 2020

HRD said:
A simple /cheap way is to use a large Jubilee clamp (hose clamp ),tightened around said collar then tap with a hammer in the direction (ACW ) to undo the collar. Use the screw head of the Jubilee clamp as the anvil for the hammer taps.
Paul

Great idea. Wish I had know about this when I had to unstick mine. Ended up clamping the collar in a vise and turning the leg. Worked fine.

marshg246 · Feb 4, 2020

BTW, whenever possible, I crack them loose before removing the forks from the bike.

Removing fork slider collar

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