Anyone know the stock length of the fork spacers in a 73 tx650 with 34mm tubes? I just swapped out the +6 fork tubes for standard length. There was a spacer with the extended fork tubes that was about 9" long or so, I left it out. Now my forks/trees fall to within a few inches of the fork bottoms so I figured I must need some sort of spacer??
Thanks xs'ers
Primetime,
If you have the original springs from 73, I would guess they have sagged quite a lot, so either need replacing or at least a bit longer spacer.
I have never actually had a 73 TX fork apart, but I believe it is very similar to the fork on my 2 RD350s from 74. And these I know fairly well.
With the spring in the fork, and the fork fully extended, measure the distance from the top of the spring to the top of the tube. Then measure how far the fork cap (plug) will go into the tube. The difference between these two measurements will be the length of a spacer that results in ZERO spring preload. Now, you obviously will want some preload, so I suggest making a spacer that is around an inch or so longer than the "zero preload" spacer. You can use PVC pipe of a suitable diameter and schedule, as this is an easy material to work with. Just make sure you have the washers that sit on top of the springs, to keep the springs from damaging your new spacers. If the fork is still too soft, you can add a bit more fork oil, or make a set of slightly longer spacers.
When re-assembling the fork, I would recommend using a 1/2" ratchet and a 5" extension, with the correct socket. You will need to push fairly hard in order to overcome the spring and get the thread started. And since it is fairly fine thread, it is easily damaged (don't ask how I know......)