'82 550mz non-airfork oil replacement adjustment

[Katmantoo]

I am new here and am too old (or lazy) to be computer literate! Can any one help. I need to change the fork oil but have no info in my manual to do this. There is some sort of an adjuster in the fork cap - I have never seen this before and don't want to mess with it until I know how to deal with it.

[hampshirehog]

It's the preload adjuster. Just undo the bolt normally and you'll see how it works.

[Guest]

Welcome. Download the service manual for your bike from Basscliff's site: http://members.dslextreme.com/users/bikecliff/


Mark

[RichDesmond]

I am new here and am too old (or lazy) to be computer literate! Can any one help. I need to change the fork oil but have no info in my manual to do this. There is some sort of an adjuster in the fork cap - I have never seen this before and don't want to mess with it until I know how to deal with it.

Here's some directions for changing fork springs and oil, just ignore the spring-specific stuff. Let me know if you have any questions.

http://sonicsprings.com/catalog/damper_rod_forks_tech_article.php

[Katmantoo]

Thanks people for the help. I now feel confident about draining the sludge out and cracking the caps with a 22mm spanner! I will keep you posted!

[RichDesmond]

Thanks people for the help. I now feel confident about draining the sludge out and cracking the caps with a 22mm spanner! I will keep you posted!

Don't use an open-end wrench, and it's preferable to not use a 12-point box end or socket. A good 6 point socket is best, fork caps are easy to round off.

[Katmantoo]

Thanks. I checked my tools and all my spanners are 12 point. However I do have a 6 point box spanner set but this might be a it flimsy.

[Katmantoo]

There is confusion as to which model I have, US/Canada (233 mls) or UK (195mls). Frame number is GS550M-104243. Can you help?

[RichDesmond]

There is confusion as to which model I have, US/Canada (233 mls) or UK (195mls). Frame number is GS550M-104243. Can you help?

Do the 233 and 195mls numbers refer to the quantity of fork oil to use? If so, ignore those numbers and set the level per the method outlined in instructions I linked to. If you have the stock springs use 100mm for the oil level.

[Guest]

Listen to Rich, he knows what he speaks of regarding the forks and oil levels.


Mark

[Katmantoo]

Yes, those are the oil quantities in the manual. Thanks