Hitchcocks Forum

I am removing the alloy yoke off the top of the forks and centre column, bit of a newbie to classic bike repairs so I hope the terms/description I have used are understandable.

Problem being I can’t get the thing to move upwards. Everything I can find has been removed including a large allen key bolt that goes into the side of the centre column at a 45 deg angle. I have used the “persuader” with a cloth to protect the yoke but no movement as yet. Any help is most welcome, my plan once its off is to get the deep marks removed around the switch and maybe get if vapour blasted.

Thanks
Big Jim

Hi Jim

You'll need to drop the forks before you can remove the top yoke. This involves wheel off, slacken pinch bolts on lower yoke and unscrewing the fork stanchions so the whole fork assembly drops away from the yokes. Involves a big 1/2" Allen key to unscrew the stanchions.

If you have a look on the parts book on this site all should become clear, alternatively buy a manual!

Good luck

Stephen

Vapour blasting would be a good idea for the underside, but getting it polished on the top and sides with the scratches (and everything else!) removed will look a whole lot better. A.

Thank You PO51UHD and Adrian, feel like I should have spotted that :{ Anyway off to do same, will update you how I get on, much appreciated.

Adrian is there a name for the process of polishing you mentioned or the type of people that do this? No point in removing it and not getting a first class job done on it.

Cheers
Big Jim

Ps Found this link which was helpful http://www.tiger1.co.uk/RoyalEnfield/Fork Strip Sept 1967 Motorcycle Mechanics Article/Royal Enfield Continental GT Fork Strip.pdf

Sorry just had another look, do the forks actually screw out i.e are the forks themselves threaded, I just look down having removed the chrome top finishing screws and there seems nothing down there to take out.

Once you've removed each cap, you should be able to see an internal hexagon inside the stanchion. Put the effin' big Allen key in this and turn CLOCKWISE viewed from above, to screw the stanchion out from underneath. The stanchion has a thread on the outside diameter which engages with a threaded bore in the yoke.

Stephen

Cheers Stephen, purchase of 1/2 inch ALLEN KEY imminent. Jim

Hi Big Jim
No need to buy a big allen key, the footrest hex bar will do the job, use a ring spanner to turn it!
REgards Dick.

Dick, thanks for that will speed things up. Probably be a few more questions along the way, seems working on my classic 1965 GT is like starting an apprenticeship. This forum is such a great place. Cheers Jim

Just before I do this {please don't laugh} removing the forks from the yoke is a wheel of job?