If you’re a proud owner of a Francis Barnett Falcon, you know how important it is to keep your motorcycle in top shape. One crucial aspect of maintaining your bike is ensuring that the front fork bushes are in good condition. Over time, these bushes can wear out and cause problems with your bike’s performance and handling. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the process of fitting new front fork bushes on your beloved Francis Barnett Falcon.
Step 1: Preparation
Before you start the process, gather all the necessary tools and materials. You will need a set of new front fork bushes, a fork oil seal kit, a fork oil, a torque wrench, a socket set, and a workshop manual for your Francis Barnett Falcon model. It’s important to have these items on hand to ensure a smooth and efficient fitting process.
Note: It’s advised to consult the workshop manual specific to your bike model for detailed instructions and torque settings, as these may vary depending on the year and variant of your Francis Barnett Falcon.
Guide to installing front fork bushes on Francis Barnett Falcon
Replacing the front fork bushes on your Francis Barnett Falcon is an essential part of maintaining the bike’s suspension system. Over time, the original bushes can wear down and affect the handling and stability of the motorcycle. This guide will walk you through the steps of removing the old front fork bushes and installing new ones for a smoother and more comfortable ride.
Tools and materials needed:
- Front fork bush kit
- Fork oil
- Fork oil seal
- Fork spring compressors
- Fork oil level tool
- Torque wrench
- Socket set
- Allen key set
Step 1: Front fork removal
Start by lifting the front end of your Francis Barnett Falcon off the ground using a motorcycle lift or jack. Next, remove the front wheel and front brake caliper. Loosen the fork pinch bolts and remove the top cap from each front fork leg. Carefully lower the front fork legs and remove them from the bike.
Step 2: Disassembling the front fork legs
Once the front fork legs are removed, drain the fork oil by turning them upside down and fully compressing them. Using the fork spring compressors, compress the fork springs and remove the fork caps. Remove the fork springs and set them aside. Unscrew the fork damping rod bolt and carefully pull out the rods, being cautious not to damage the sensitive components.
Step 3: Removing the old front fork bushes
With the front fork legs disassembled, you can now remove the old front fork bushes. Carefully slide a suitable tool, such as a bush removal tool or a long bolt, through the bottom of the fork leg. Push the tool against the bottom of the bush and tap it gently with a rubber mallet to remove the bush from the fork leg. Repeat this process for the other front fork leg.
Step 4: Installing the new front fork bushes
Before installing the new front fork bushes, make sure they are clean and free from any debris. Apply a small amount of fork oil or grease to the outside of the new bushes for lubrication. Slide the new bushes onto each fork leg, ensuring they are properly seated in the fork legs.
Step 5: Reassembling the front fork legs
Now that the new front fork bushes are installed, it’s time to reassemble the front fork legs. Reinsert the fork damping rods into the fork legs, making sure they are properly aligned. Replace the fork springs and compress them using the spring compressors. Screw the fork caps back on and tighten them to the manufacturer’s specifications using a torque wrench.
Step 6: Fork oil replacement and reinstallation
Before reinstalling the front fork legs onto your Francis Barnett Falcon, it’s a good idea to replace the fork oil. Consult your bike’s manual for the correct fork oil capacity and fill each fork leg accordingly. Use a fork oil level tool to ensure the correct oil level is reached. Once filled, carefully slide the front fork legs back into the bike’s frame and secure them with the fork pinch bolts.
Step 7: Final adjustments and testing
Tighten all the remaining bolts and screws, including the front brake caliper and front wheel axle. Double-check that all the components are properly installed and secured. Lower the bike off the lift or jack and test the front fork suspension by gently compressing and releasing it. Your Francis Barnett Falcon should now have improved handling and a smoother ride!
Note: It’s always recommended to consult your bike’s manual or a professional mechanic for specific instructions and torque specifications for your particular model of Francis Barnett Falcon.
Step-by-step instructions for fitting front fork bushes
Replacing the front fork bushes on your Francis Barnett Falcon can be a straightforward process if you have the right tools and follow these step-by-step instructions:
Step 1: Start by lifting the front wheel of the motorcycle off the ground using a jack or a stand. This will allow you to easily access the front fork.
Step 2: Loosen and remove the bolts that secure the front wheel to the front fork. Carefully remove the wheel and set it aside.
Step 3: Locate the front fork bushes on the upper and lower parts of the front fork assembly. These bushes may be worn or damaged and will need to be replaced.
Step 4: Use a wrench to remove the bolts that hold the front fork assembly together. Carefully separate the upper and lower parts of the front fork to expose the bushes.
Step 5: Take note of the placement and orientation of the old bushes before removing them. This will make it easier to install the new ones correctly.
Step 6: To remove the old bushes, carefully tap them out using a soft mallet or a block of wood. Be sure not to damage the inner walls of the front fork.
Step 7: Take the new front fork bushes and apply a small amount of grease to the outer surface. This will help with the installation process and provide lubrication for smooth operation.
Step 8: Carefully insert the new front fork bushes into their respective positions on the upper and lower parts of the front fork assembly. Make sure they are securely in place.
Step 9: Reassemble the front fork by aligning the upper and lower parts and tightening the bolts that hold them together. Make sure all bolts are securely tightened.
Step 10: Reinstall the front wheel onto the front fork and secure it with the bolts. Ensure that the wheel is properly aligned and tightened.
Step 11: Lower the motorcycle off the jack or stand, ensuring that the front wheel is resting firmly on the ground. Test the front fork for proper operation and adjust as necessary.
Following these step-by-step instructions will allow you to replace the front fork bushes on your Francis Barnett Falcon and ensure smooth and safe operation of your motorcycle.
Essential tools and materials for the installation process
To successfully fit front fork bushes on a Francis Barnett Falcon, you will need the following tools and materials:
Tools
| Tool | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Socket set | 1 |
| Wrench set | 1 |
| Allen key set | 1 |
| Hammer | 1 |
| Rubber mallet | 1 |
| Punch | 1 |
| Vice grips | 1 |
| Wire brush | 1 |
Materials
| Material | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Front fork bushes | 2 |
| Grease | 1 tube |
| Loctite | 1 tube |
| Clean rags | 2 |
| Penetrating oil | 1 can |
| Sandpaper | 1 sheet |
Before starting the installation process, ensure that you have all the necessary tools and materials at hand. This will ensure a smooth and efficient fitting of the front fork bushes on your Francis Barnett Falcon.
Tips and tricks for a successful fitting
When it comes to fitting front fork bushes on your Francis Barnett Falcon, there are a few tips and tricks that can help ensure a successful installation. Follow these steps to make the process as smooth and efficient as possible:
1. Gather the necessary tools
Before you begin, make sure you have all the tools you need for the job. This may include a socket set, wrenches, a hammer, and a vice. Having everything prepared beforehand will save you time and frustration in the long run.
2. Remove the old front fork bushes
Start by removing the old front fork bushes from your Francis Barnett Falcon. This may require using a socket set or wrenches to loosen and remove any bolts or screws holding them in place. Once the old bushes are removed, be sure to clean the area thoroughly to create a clean surface for the new bushes.
3. Lubricate the new front fork bushes
Before installing the new front fork bushes, apply a thin layer of lubricant to the inside of each bush. This will help reduce friction and make it easier to slide them into position. Make sure to evenly distribute the lubricant to ensure smooth operation of your front forks.
4. Line up the new front fork bushes
Carefully line up the new front fork bushes with the corresponding holes on your Francis Barnett Falcon. It may be helpful to apply a small amount of force to push them into place. Take your time to ensure they are properly aligned and seated securely in the holes.
5. Tighten the bolts
Once the new front fork bushes are in position, use a socket set or wrenches to tighten any bolts or screws that hold them in place. Make sure to follow the manufacturer’s recommended torque specifications to avoid over-tightening or under-tightening. This will help prevent any issues or damage in the future.
6. Test the front forks
With the new front fork bushes installed and secured, it’s important to test the front forks to ensure they are functioning properly. Bounce the front end of your Francis Barnett Falcon a few times to check for any unusual noises or resistance. If everything feels and sounds normal, you can proceed with confidence.
By following these tips and tricks, you can successfully fit front fork bushes on your Francis Barnett Falcon and enjoy a smoother and more enjoyable riding experience. Remember to take your time and be thorough in each step to achieve the best results.
