82 1100E forks air manifold question

[wilsonsandy07]

Hey everyone I have a couple of questions about reinstalling forks on an 1100e with the air assisted forks

Is there any specific orientation for the air hole in the fork tubes? The manual says just to line up the upper end of the tube with the top of the triple tree and the manifold is sealed around the whole diameter of the tube but the air valve being pointed is making me question if it needs to go into that hole in the tube.

looked in the service manual and didn’t find any mention of either during reinstall. Thanks for any help!

[Nessism]

I don't think the orientation of the hole matters, the collars around the tubes are sealed all around.

[Who Dat?]

Agreed. . . . . . . . .

[wilsonsandy07]

Thanks for the input guys, I went ahead and pushed with the install, looking good so far

[Nessism]

Many here report improved front end action after ditching the soft stock fork springs, and installing Sonic Springs instead. With the better springs, you don't need to monkey around with air. The air itself increases seal stiction, not to mention, it leaks out over time.

[Rob S.]

Been there, done that (I went with Race-Tech straight rate .9).

If you do want to keep the air function, you'll need a special, purpose-designed pump. DON'T use a tire pump.

[wilsonsandy07]

Good info Nessism/Rob, I’ll probably end up switching springs in the near future but for now I just need to get the damn thing in solid running condition. Lower priority on the list right now air assist will have to do for now