How hard is it to replace a fork seal? Just picked up a 2001 F4i and after riding around for a bit i noticed my left fork is covered in oil. TIA for any help!

 

Its not rocket science but you need to do your research on HOW-TO's (some here on forum).

Fork seals should be replaced on both sides at the same time. OEM Honda fork seals & Pro Honda SS8 fluid will suffice.

You'll need a front stand that lifts the bike by the lower triple. I use PitBull stands but there are other suitable options. As long as you use a good front stand in conjunction w/a good rear stand, you're GTG. Once securely on stands, remove the front brake calipers, front wheel, & fender. Then, follow the procedure in the factory Honda service manual (links here on forum) for removing your forks. Its not difficult. You'll unbolt & remove your clip-ons, remove snap-rings, loosen upper & lower pinch bolts, & lower/remove your forks.

Again, follow the service manual procedure (& use how-to's) on replacing the fork seals & fluid, & servicing your forks.

Most shops charge $200+ to do this. If you can patiently follow the service manual & how-to's, you can do this for considerably less & gain valuable experience on how your forks install & operate.

You *can* do this!

 

+1 to Gotcbr, this is a good introduction to mechanical work, Just take your time.
Don't try to meet a schedule, follow one of the pictoral write-ups and you're good. ;-)

Do a search on google for "fork seals pvc tool". That will get you all the info you need.

Ern

 

I did it on my F2, take your time and follow the links. I did it with a Clymer, just discovered thie forum! Good Luck.

Mike

 

How to change F4i fork seals video

 

Thanks alot guys! I'm a pretty good mechanic, this is just my first bike and i didn't know if i was gonna run into any surprises when i got into this job.

 

Just so the OP knows, that ^^^ "how-to" above is not the end-all be-all how-to to changing fork seals. While that vid can be of help as a single resource, it is far from complete or proper procedure for a fork seal removal/replacement. I applaud the helpful spirit of that video(s) BUT be sure to Do your homework & follow the service manual procedure.

While not absolutely necessary, do yourself a favor & get a -Fork Seal Driver-. You need the 43mm size. They are about $35-45 & worth every penny. I have this one... Motion Pro - Fork Seal Driver 43mm (it can be had for less elsewhere). You can make your own driver from PVC pipe but you'll have to take the time & hassle of hunting down the materials & modifying them to work. To me, paying the money for the actual tool was well worth it.

As CBRClassic mentioned, be extremely careful working around your tubes & careful not to nick/ding them. A little gouge on your fork tube can cause damage to your new seals, causing them to leak. As part of the service manual procedures, you'll inspect for surface irregularites b/f installation of new seals. Any rough spots can be smoothed w/ emery cloth/super fine sandpaper. Again, follow the service manual recommendations. Too, plastic wrap over the top of the tube (as stated in manual) when placing the seal onto the tube will help insure no damage from the start. Also, be sure to use plumber's tape or equivalent on the bottom (socket) bolt when completing installation.

While not necessary, I'd recommend not only changing the oil seals but also the dust seals as well (total of 4 seals altogether - 2 oil & 2 dust). You can buy them as a set from any Honda parts supplier/dealer.

Take your time, follow proper procedures, & you can be proud of the job you did & the money you've saved.

 

One of the members of this forum has a step by step guide.