Question about front forks??

[Redroamer]

How hard is it to rebuild the front forks of an 85 Big Red 250 es? Bike Bandits seems to have the parts in stock according to their website. The forks on the bike I'm considering purchasing are bottomed out with no spring at all in them. Do you think it just needs new springs and seals? Or, what is the common part that wears out and would cause this problem? Last, anyone know where an article online is that explains the process or someone have a manual they could scan the info from and email it to me? I'm trying tofigure out if the bike forks can be repaired before purchasing it. Thanks guys!! I really appreciate the help!!! Randall.

[TimSr]

"Rebuilding" forks is usually a matter of changing the oil, and replacing seals only if they leak. Springs just drop in the top of the tubes. Forks have plugs near the bottom through which you drain the oil, and you pour new oil back in the tops of the tubes. About the only thing a manual would be helpful for is the amount of oil. If seals leak, you have to take the wheel and forks off to slide them off the tubes, but theres nothing complicated about it. The main concern I would have is if the springs arent in the tubes, is if the oil is not in them either, and instead water along with rust and corrosion, especially if you cannot extend them. If the slide tubes are rusted or pitted where they slide through the seal, they are doomed.

[Beck1979]

Just for future reference, I looked it up in my Clymer shop manual and it says the front forks hold 110.5-115.5cc (3.73-3.91oz). The manual does also show all the parts and how they are put together inside the forks. It also gives step by step on how to disassemble and assemble them. If you do need copies of these pages, let me know and I will see if I can somehow get them on my computer to e-mail to you.