What is stock length for Harley front ends?
I was always under impression that in modern terms the stock length for harleys implies modern softail as a reference point- total stock fork length about 31.5-32 inches. An old bt springer fork[ total length 28″] used to be that ‘zero over’ reference point- but now is regarded as ‘-4 under’.
Can you cut fork stanchions?
No, don’t think about cutting anything. If the stanchions fit into the lowers then it’s the internals (spring side and damper side) which can be changed to fit. If the stanchions don’t fit into the lowers (least likely outcome) then sell them and get the ones you want.
Should I cut down my steerer tube?
Before cutting anything, unless you have a special stem that says not to put spacers above it (these are few and far between, the “exceptions to the rule”) you should lower your stem and ride like that for a week or two. See how it feels and only after that should you make a decision about cutting your steer tube.
How do you fix a scratched fork tube?
Start with a small knife sharpening stone, fine grit, and some light oil. With light pressure; work across the scratch, allowing the stone to rock around the circumference of the tube. Never go up and down the length of the tube. This will create a flat spot.
How far down should a star nut be?
Star Nut Installation with TNS-1 The TNS places the nut about 15mm (9/16″) below the top of the steering column. This allows the adjusting bolt to thread fully into the nut for adjustment pre-load. It can also help maintain alignment to use the stem as an alignment guide.
Do you need a star nut?
It isn’t mandatory to use a star nut and there are ways to adjust a stem/fork interface without one, but it isn’t typically a “beginner” skill.
How do you push down a star nut?
I just unscrew the bolt from the topcap the amount you want the star nut pushed down. Then just use a hammer to tap the bolt down flat on the topcap. This will push the starnut down, and keep it straight while doing it.
Can you reuse a star nut?
Yes, you’ll need a new star nut because they can’t be removed and reused. So if the new fork doesn’t come with one, you’ll need to buy one.
Do new forks come with a star nut?
Typically forks do not come with a star nut. New headsets do, though. Your LBS should have a new star nut for you to shove in there.
Can you use a star nut on carbon forks?
WARNING! Never use a star nut with a carbon steerer tube fork (Figure 7). Star nuts can only be used with aluminum steerer tube forks. Use only a compression device designed for carbon steerers.
What does a star nut do?
The star fangled nut — or ‘star nut’, as it’s known — is pressed into the steerer tube and allows the fork and headset components to be pulled into place in the frame’s head tube. If you have a new fork or have just cut down your steerer tube, you may need to fit a new star nut.