Removing the chrome Outer tube nut

[brianhinds]

I am restoring my dads 71 350 gtr and need to take the fork tube apart.  What is the best way to remove the outer tube nut?  I am worried that I might damage the fork if I don't do it properly.  Thanks for any help. 

[reed]

brianhinds,
The way i remove the outer tube nut i first use a strap wrench you can get one from Snap on tools part number BLBSTWRKT.
And if the nut is still too tight i put tape around the nut and i use a chain wrenches and that will undo the nut and again you
Can get that from Snap on tools part number CW12A.
Thanks.
Steve.

[ziggy stardust]

Here's how I removed mine and they were super tight.

 

Z

[OldSwartout]

I tried that with the hose clamp, too.  If they are really tight and the clamp slips, it will scratch/gouge the chrome. I found that out the hard way.

[moonpup]

Ziggy.......

That just proves that if you think about a problem long enough and hard enough, eventually you'll come up with a workable solution. I've also enjoyed following the progress of your restoration in your gallery, especially, all the special tools you've been able to fabricate on your own.

You, like many others here that document their work, are truly an inspiration to those of us just getting started. Thanks for the pictorial guide.

Mike

[ziggy stardust]

Old swartout, if you tighten the clips securely with a socket rather than a screw driver they shouldn't slip, one sharp hit with the hammer loosens the tube nut enough for it to unscrew.

If you position the clip as in the photo and it slipped and scratched the chrome it's not the end of the world as the gaiter covers that area anyway.

Moonpup, thanks for the compliment, I enjoy what I do documenting my progress in pictorial form as it's always easier for others rather than reading about it. Pity I didn't go deeper into the engine but I believe if it ain't showing signs of a problem then leave it.

I also do it for another reason, I will write an article for the VJMC magazine (UK) when the bike is finished and it all helps to remind me as I have for other bikes I've restored.

Z

[happyharvey]

Brianhinds,

If you have access to a lathe or know someone who can help in that area then that is another way of gripping hold of the seal holder tightly without damage.
I used this method just recently on my 175 DT.

Harvey.

[reed]

Lee,
That's a good idea with the clip i use it on a smaller Bridgestone fork leg and it worked for me!!
Thanks.
Steve. 

[brianhinds]

thanks for all of the ideas.  I think that i'll try the strap wrench first.  Hopefully that will do it.