triple tree

[Guest callithrix]

Took off the top of the triple tree( called fork head in the manual : careful when you say that) and wanted to know what the torque value is for the nut that screws onto the steering tube directly over the bearing. It was finger loose when I removed it. I can't find it in the work shop manual. Good thing I spent so much on the thing.

[Mike Stewart]

Callithrix,

 

I don't think there is a torque for that nut. The nut controls the head bearing preload. Too tight and there will be too much drag on the steering and early bearing failure, too loose and you will have bike handling problems. Most people raise the front of the bike and tighten the nut until the play is out of the steering head. You might as well loosen her up and check the bearing for grease, I have heard of them being installed with very little grease on them. Just use good old wheel bearing grease on them.

 

Mike

[Guest callithrix]

Thanks! This forum is really great

[dlaing]

Callithrix,

Where did you get your name?

I thought it may have been an "Asterisk The Gaul" character, but I had no luck finding such a character.

[Guest callithrix]

It's just a nickname I use. It's actually the scientific name for a family of New World primates I'm an anthroplogy nerd.

[Mike Stewart]

It's just a nickname I use. It's actually the scientific name for a family of New World primates I'm an anthroplogy nerd.

So is your real name Ross from friends?

 

Mike

[Guest callithrix]

Ross isn't as cool he doesn't own a Guzzi.

[Guest northend]

A general rule of thumb for bearing preload adjustment is to

 

jack up the front end (with all parts installed, wheel, fender, bars, etc.)

 

and tighten to the point where the fork needs a little help to fall to one

 

side. Then take it out for a spin and recheck. I will usually do this 2 or3

 

times before I'm happy with the preload

 

Jeff H..............Detroit, MI.