Is your Fox fork leaking oil? Are you noticing a loss of performance or a decrease in damping capability? If so, it’s time to change your fork seals. Damaged or worn-out seals can cause oil leaks and affect the overall performance of your fork. By following a few simple steps, you can replace the fork seals and restore your Fox fork to its optimal functionality.
In this guide, we will walk you through the process of changing the seals on your Fox fork. Before you begin, make sure to gather the necessary tools and replacement parts. You will need a seal driver tool, a fork seal kit, a socket wrench, a hex key set, a plastic mallet, and some suspension oil. It’s important to note that the specific tools required may vary depending on the model and year of your Fox fork.
To start, remove the front wheel and detach the brake caliper to gain access to the lower leg of the fork. Next, loosen the bolts that hold the lower leg in place and carefully slide it down to reveal the fork seal. Clean the area around the seal thoroughly to prevent any dirt or debris from entering the fork during the seal replacement process.
Now, take your seal driver tool and carefully place it on top of the old seal. Use a plastic mallet to gently tap the tool, driving the seal out of its housing. Be sure to support the lower leg as you do this to prevent any damage. Once the old seal is removed, clean the seal housing and inspect it for any signs of damage or wear. If necessary, replace the seal housing to ensure a proper fit for the new seal.
Tips for Changing Fox Fork Seals Successfully
Changing the seals on your Fox fork can greatly improve its performance and extend its lifespan. Here are some tips to help you successfully change the fork seals:
1. Use the Right Tools
Having the proper tools is essential when changing fork seals. Make sure you have a seal driver, a seal bullet or a PVC pipe to evenly and gently tap the new seals into place. Also, have a seal pick or a small flathead screwdriver for removing the old seals.
2. Cleanliness is Key
Prior to changing the seals, clean the stanchions and lower legs thoroughly to remove any dirt, debris, or old seal remnants. A clean surface will ensure proper installation and prevent contamination of the new seals.
3. Protect the Stanchions
Wrap a soft cloth around the stanchions to protect them from accidental scratches or damage during the seal replacement process. This extra precaution will help maintain the smooth operation of your fork.
4. Apply Lubrication
Before installing the new seals, apply a thin layer of suspension fork oil or a recommended lubricant on the stanchions. This will help the seals glide smoothly into position and improve their longevity.
5. Tap Gently
When inserting the new seals, tap them gently into place using your seal driver, seal bullet, or PVC pipe. Avoid using excessive force as it can damage the seals or the fork. Take your time and ensure the seals are seated evenly and securely.
6. Test for Leaks
After successfully installing the new seals, test the fork for any signs of leakage. Compress the fork a few times and inspect around the seals for any oil seepage. If there is leakage, double-check the installation or seek professional help.
By following these tips, you can ensure a successful seal replacement for your Fox fork. Remember to take your time, use the right tools, and maintain cleanliness throughout the process.
Gather the Necessary Tools
Before you begin changing the fork seals on your fox fork, it’s important to gather all the necessary tools. Here’s a list of what you’ll need:
- Socket set
- Torque wrench
- Seal driver
- Hammer
- Flathead screwdriver
- Fork oil
- Seal cleaner
- Shop rags
Having these tools on hand will ensure that you have everything you need to successfully change the fork seals on your fox fork.
Remove the Old Seals Carefully
Before replacing the seals, it is important to remove the old ones carefully to ensure a proper installation of the new seals. Follow these steps to remove the old seals:
- Prepare the necessary tools: Gather all the necessary tools, including a seal pick or a small flathead screwdriver, a seal driver or a suitable piece of pipe or PVC, and a soft cloth or rag to clean the fork tubes.
- Secure the fork: Secure the fork in a vise or using a fork holding tool to prevent any movement or damage during the seal removal process.
- Remove the dust seals: Start by removing the dust seals, which are the outer seals that protect the fork from dirt and debris. Gently insert the seal pick or flathead screwdriver under the dust seal and carefully pry it off. Be cautious not to damage the fork tube while doing so.
- Remove the oil seals: Once the dust seals are removed, locate the oil seals, which are the inner seals that prevent oil leakage. Use the seal pick or flathead screwdriver to carefully pry off the oil seals, again being mindful not to damage the fork tube.
- Clean the fork tubes: After removing the seals, use a soft cloth or rag to clean the fork tubes thoroughly. Remove any dirt, oil, or debris from the fork tubes to ensure a proper fit and prevent contamination of the new seals.
Remember to handle the old seals and any sharp tools with caution to prevent injury. Take your time and be gentle to avoid damaging the fork tubes during this process.
Clean and Prep the Fork
Before starting the process of changing the fork seals, it is important to clean and prep the fork to ensure a smooth and efficient seal replacement.
Here are the steps to clean and prep the fork:
- Begin by removing the front wheel and brake caliper from the fork.
- Next, remove the front fender and any other accessories that may be attached to the fork.
- Using a clean cloth or rag, wipe away any dirt, debris, or excess oil from the fork tubes.
- Inspect the fork tubes for any signs of damage or wear. If there are any visible cracks or dents, it may be necessary to replace the entire fork.
- Once the fork tubes are clean and inspected, it is time to remove the fork seals. Carefully use a seal pick or a small flathead screwdriver to pry the old seals out of the fork tubes.
- After the old seals are removed, clean the inside of the fork tubes with a solvent or degreaser to remove any remaining oil or debris.
- Inspect the fork tubes again to ensure they are clean and free of any debris or dirt.
- Finally, apply a thin coat of fork oil to the new seals and carefully press them into the fork tubes, making sure they are seated properly.
By properly cleaning and prepping the fork, you can ensure a successful and long-lasting seal replacement.
Install the New Seals Properly
Once you have removed the old seals from your fox fork, it’s time to install the new ones. Here are the steps to do it correctly:
Step 1: Clean the Fork Tubes
Start by thoroughly cleaning the fork tubes to remove any dirt or debris that could interfere with the installation of the new seals. Use a clean rag and some rubbing alcohol to wipe down the tubes.
Step 2: Apply Fork Oil
Before installing the new seals, apply a thin layer of fork oil to the fork tubes. This will help lubricate the seals and ensure smooth operation.
Step 3: Position the Seals
Take the new seals and position them on the fork tubes. Make sure the seals are aligned properly and sit flush against the fork lowers. Use your fingers to gently press the seals into place.
Step 4: Use a Seal Installation Tool
To ensure a proper and secure installation, it is recommended to use a seal installation tool. This tool will help evenly distribute the pressure when installing the seals, minimizing the risk of damage.
Step 5: Tap the Seals In
Using a soft mallet or a rubber mallet, tap the seal installation tool to firmly press the seals into place. Start at the outer edge of the seal and work your way towards the center. Be careful not to hit the seals too hard to avoid any damage.
Step 6: Check for Proper Installation
Once the seals are installed, double-check their position and make sure they sit flush against the fork lowers. Give them a gentle tug to ensure they are secure and properly seated.
Step 7: Reassemble the Fork
With the new seals installed, you can now reassemble the fork. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions or refer to your bike’s manual for the specific steps on how to put the fork back together.
In conclusion, installing new seals on your fox fork is a relatively straightforward process. By following these steps and using the right tools, you can ensure a proper and secure installation, allowing your fork to perform optimally.
