Fork dampers

[Rich.]

As usual I'm confused, looking at the SRM dampers they measure 60cm or 23 5/8 inches, whilst the ones fitted to my Golden Flash are 42.4cm or 16 11/16 inches! Which is the original Dow length (I believe). My forks are the 1956 variety with an 8 inch full width brake. Could anyone please put me right on whether I have the correct length damper rods fitted?
Cheers, Rich.

[chaterlea25]

Hi,
Here's a link to a previous topic,
16 11/16 is correct as I measured from an original set,
http://www.a7a10.net/forum/index.php?topic=2895.0

Fork oil needs to be light (SAE10) and level depends on rider weight and preference
add oil till it feels right, but it should reach the damper valves

HTH
John

[Rich.]

Thanks John, what's started me on this "quest" is that the forks seem to top out very easily, I now have 220ml of SAE15 and the dampers installed at 16 11/16 inches. I believe this to be Correct. But I did read something like" top up the oil off the stand until the damper valves are covered" this will be my next move, providing it's not a ridiculous amount of oil!
Cheers and beers, Rich.

[chaterlea25]

HI Rich,
I'm not sure when the fork legs were modified by drilling two holes near the bottom of the legs
The purpose of the holes is to pump oil in and out of the gap betwe the bushes
As the forks extend the oil is forced back into the centre, first off one hole is blocked off then the second
making a virtual hydraulic lock, of course oil is still forced between the bush and leg
This makes a big difference with the topping out issue
If the top bush is not shimmed tight or has worn at the circlip the bushes will hit the circlip and make noise

HTH
John

[Rich.]

Thanks John. Yes, that's most helpful. I think the "penny has dropped". Because the damper was there I couldn't see past the end of my nose at the real problem! Sounds like a late winter project. I'll strip them down for inspection ASAP.
Many thanks, Rich.