I've never done any replacements like this before. Within the next few days I will be replacing my buddy's fork seals due to leaking, and I was wondering something. Do I need to do any preload or compression/rebound adjustments after the replacement?

This might be a dumb question, but like I said, I've never done this before.

Any help would be awesome!

 

no question is dumb
if the rider is happy with the settings you shouldnt need to change them, if you havent done this job before be very carefull not to mark the stantion trying to undo the cap, at least slacken the fork cap off be fore removing the fork,follow the workshop manual, the only problem you might encounter is removing the damper from the stantion, just make sure you clean everything up well including the seal seat, what ever you do use something soft (plastic) to clean this out to avoid scratching or damaging the seat, when the job is done refill with recomended oil and set using the air gap method should be exsplained in your manual, if it was me i would at least change the oil in the other fork at the same time, then if any suspension adjustments need to be made after a ride they can be done then

 

The only way you can change anything internally is by replacing the stuff inside. There are upgraded valves and springs you can get from companies like racetech. If the springs are original, they are probably worn out after all these years. A new set of springs rated for the weight of the rider makes for a good ride.

After you get them back together, you can set all the adjustments to fit his riding style.

 

Thanks demon and wheelnut, I'll definitely keep all of that in mind when I open them up. He's a fairly new rider so I'm sure adjustments will come with time and experience.