DOHC XS400 fork disassembly question

[billday]

Hi everybody,

Trying to change the fork oil on my DOHC XS400, first time doing it myself.

The manual says that after I pry off the dust cap there is a spring stopper that I need to depress in order to remove a circlip.

See the picture: Under the dust cap I have a blank looking piece of metal. There is a ridge visible with a clip mm. or two below the top, but the metal plug can't be depressed (unlike me) and I don't see how to reach the clip.

Any suggestions on how to proceed?

Thanks in advance,

Bill

 

[16VGTIDave]

That metal plug has to be forced down (against the spring tension) to reveal the wire circlip. I do it with the forks mounted, the bike on the center stand and a jack under the engine to the front tire is off the ground. The first time I did mine, it took a LOT of effort and penetrating oil to get the parts moving. A brass drift and hammer may help.

 

[billday]

Thanks Dave, now I'm looking forward to waling on those suckers.

Now let me ask this: Did you replace the circlips? If yes where did you source them?

 

[16VGTIDave]

I didn't replace them. Mine were only slightly rusty, but cleaned up well. I made sure that they were lubricated and seated fully on reassembly.