Couple front end-related Qs

[Orangeshirtdude]

1. What's the best way to remove the axle end caps without buggering them all up? The one on the right just spins with some effort. The one on the left won't budge. I give up!

2. Anyone found caps for covering the compression adjustment screws on the bottom of the fork legs? A seasoned trail rider advised me to cap those before bashing them in the rocks.

[ChasM]

1. I use a 1 1/8" or 27mm socket to remove the cap on the left. The axle comes out from the right side with the 'cap' still intact.

2. I would also like to find some rubber plug caps to fit the bottom of the fork tubes. I tried using the rubber caps from the fork tubes on my KTM but they don't fit.

[tirebiter]

1: loosen the two axle pinch bolts on the brake (Left) side.
2: Remove the axle bolt (Big ass bolt, brake side).
3: loosen the pinch bolts on the right (Non brake) side.
4: Jack the front end up in the air.
5: Hold on to the tire & push the axle out from left to right.
6: Remove the wheel.

Re assembly-
1: slightly spread the brake pads apart, not too much, 1/8' or so is fine.
2: install axle thru wheel and forks, make sure you push the axle in as far as you can.
3: Lightly tighten 1 pinch bolt on the right (Non brake) side.
4: Install axle bolt & torque to specs.
5: tighten left side (Brake side) pinch bolts to spec.
6: Release tension on the right pinch bolt.
7: Bounce bike up and down, or ride it up and down the block to insure the forks are aligned.
8: Torque the right pinch bolts.

If this all sounds Greek to ya, search you area for help- lot's of folks out there..

[Orangeshirtdude]

Thanks for the info, guys! Another question then. Does the bolt on the brake (left) side have reverse threads? I'm having a really tough time breaking it loose, and I have not gone to the break-over bar yet without being certain the threads are normal (counterclockwise to loosen).