Hitchcocks Forum

Suggestions please, Which is the best way to replace fork gaters on a 2003 bullet 65? I have two choices, unscrew the complete leg from the top (which means risking heat comming in contact with the wiring thats in the nacele, using a blow torch makes the unscrewing / removal easy) or to remove the lower leg with the wheel out(have never taken lower leg off before) any suggestions which is best route, if removing the lower leg is the better option any one done this, any precautions to look out for?.


Cheers

All depends on that top thread. Mine came out no problem without heat.
As you have to remove wheel, mudguard etc with either method I would try the complete leg method first. You need a length of 1/2" hex to unscrew them and just think about which way to turn. You turn clockwise from the top which feels wrong.
If they won't release you could try penetrating oil but as you say, heat is probably to be avoided.
There is a tech note here on how to replace fork seals which guides you through the process of stripping the sliders (read the right one - there are two - early and later models)

Oh, and I wouldn't want large fierce reptiles on my forks!

Sorry, just being pedantic but they are gaiters.
Mind you, it would keep any low-life from messing with your bike!

Hi GURU--------- As per PETE F...... You can either buy the unscrewing tool from our hosts OR make your own using HEX steel that's the same as the front footrest bar ( I have a spare piece from the same job--- yours for the cost of postage ) OR you can use a SNAP-ON 1/2" drive 13mm short hex tool >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> I do hope you're not going to put another set of those plastic gaitors on ?? Why not fit this type instead >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>

Pete F, yep these are rubber gaters not those pesky ally
Alan R, give me a posting address and i will get a SAE over to you, you can send details via [email protected].


Cheers