fitting new suspension fork boots

[theof]

Hi,

I've replaced the fork boots on my K6 as the old ones were cracked. Forks disassembly was easy, lowers dropped out of the crowns fine. But now I'm struggling to fit the boot over the fork lowers, to create a seal.

Has anybody found a good method for doing this. I think I might need to soften the rubber boots somehow, perhaps in boiling water?

Any tips would be great.

Thank you,
Theo

[Sgt.Pinback]

I've just done this with a small screwdriver. Did you buy genuine HONDA parts?

[Trigger]

Hair dryer softens the rubber boots for a easy fit

[mike the bike]

Dunk them in V hot water for a few minutes .  Use red rubber grease or silicon spray/grease.  I'm always having to persuade hoses onto fittings at work.

[Bryanj]

WD and a thin screwdriver plus patience to work them round

[theof]

all, thanks for the tips.

they are Honda / OEM boots, but they are old and have stiffened up. will try the heat, lube and screwdriver methods. but maybe i need new Honda / OEM ones which have more flexibility in them.

cheers
Theo

[Chris400F]

If they have stiffened with age to the point where they are difficult to fit is it likely that the same stiffness would also cause them to quickly crack in use?

[Sgt.Pinback]

When they are old put them in the dishwasher. Don't ask your wife.