I have a stock 98 220,I want to install new front fork springs since I hear it will help alot with handling.I have never isntalled them before.How involved a project is this,is it failry simple or can it be a nightmare?Also what size for a 195# rider
You'll need to make a spring holder. The spring needs to be held below the jam nut so you can get a wrench on the nut. It's as simple as a slot cut into a piece of sheet metal. You can use a slightly smaller wrench to do the trick, too. You'll probably have to hold onto that, though.
There is a washer that is crimped to the end of the oem spring. Make sure you it comes out with both springs. Crimp it good on the new springs before you install 'em.
Remember to loosen the top cap while the fork is still in the triple clamp. Much easier than trying to get it off when the fork is out.
The preload on the oem spring is ridiculous. Make one yourself out of schedule40 1" PVC pipe. You'll probably get a length of it with your springs.
Take the forks off the bike. Much easier. Use a 7/16 wrench as the "special" spring tool. You'll find a thousand different answers to spring rates. I tried a few and ended up with the Fredette .39s I weigh 225. I can't imagine using anything over .40 for trail riding. Maybe if I was a A or B rider I would go stiffer but I doubt it. The heavier springs just beat you to death in the rough stuff. Of course I do have Gold Valves stacked up stiffer than usual so that prob allows my lighter for my weight springs. Ask the master Fredette and he will tell you the same thing about using the lighter springs. Do you want a Cadillac or a Jeep?
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