EZ Fork Cap installation how to - Page 7

07XL1200N · #61 12th May 2012

I will try this method for the intimidators.

oldboy · #62 13th July 2012

I found a variation on Xena's method that worked for my bike. I tried the breaker bar but was not getting the cap to thread. The height where I was holding on to the bar was too high above the forks to give me the leverage I needed, imo. I also have limited 'range of motion' in both shoulders that might be why the breaker bar method didn't work.

I decieded to use an extension on the socket instead of the breaker bar. This gave me greater control but I still had a problem. I could get the cap down the fork, but I didn't have enough grip on the extention to turn and start the threads. When I tried turning the socket, I was fighting holding onto the extension.

My solution was to slide a large deep well socket over the end of the extension. This gave me a larger diameter to hold onto (making holding the cap down MUCH easier). Then with my other hand I turned the socket and cap.

sportysrock · #63 13th July 2012

Great idea! Now you have something solid to push done with, but still free to rotate.

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MindfulRider · #64 13th July 2012

Thanks for the great tip!

knut · #65 13th July 2012

Quote:

Originally Posted by oldboy

My solution was to slide a large deep well socket over the end of the extension. This gave me a larger diameter to hold onto (making holding the cap down MUCH easier). Then with my other hand I turned the socket and cap.

Good idea. Having varying lengths of steel pipe to use as extensions on breaker bars, socket wrenches, and open end wrenches makes a helpful addition to any tool box/chest.

Never had any difficulty putting on fork caps myself... but fascinating reading the different solutions people come up with...

simeli · #66 26th September 2012

Some wonderful Ideas and because I am getting old I will be building one of the clamp deals.

I have always used a sliding tee bar and an extension with the pin wrench for most tubes. But the newer bikes 73 and up have to have the nut screwed in on the spring which the tee bar and socket let's you put all of your weight on it, but why fight with the things if you don't have to.

+1 I like the clamp idea!