Franks 850-T, I have an odd fork seal question...

[radguzzi]

My Buddy Frank has his 850-T in for new headlight ears, headlight and a couple of other things, Jon's '78 LeMans is waiting also for some brake work but that is another story.

While taking the forks off the T I could not help but notice the fork seal boots are severely deteriorated and that naturally lead me to looking at the seals. They actually do not appear to be leaking but what is more odd is that there is no retaining clip and I cannot see a groove for one.

I am wondering if someone has installed two sets of seals and the top seal is covering the groove.

Well in looking at the parts book I notice Two (2) "Leg Rings" (Part # 26) and a "Ring" (Very descriptive...) which is the retaining clip.

I am undecided as to remove them for a closer look but part of me is saying do it while it is down.

Any input as to whether there is or should be a retainer groove in the lower legs..?  This is not my first go round with forks and seals but the lack of the groove has me puzzled.

Best,
Rob

This 850-T engine is equipped with a filter in the pan.  Kinda makes up for the paint job...  lol

[SED]

Not sure about 850T, but the later LMIII forks do not have a snapring or groove for one.

[LeRoy]

If I recall correctly, the original fitment to Tonti bikes of that era was two seals in each fork leg. Those are Part #26 in the Parts Manual. Part #25 sure looks like a circlip, but I don't recall any kind of retaining clip in the bikes I've had apart.

[acogoff]

    The T3 has doubled up seals and no snap ring. The snap ring in the parts book probably has to do with the cup thingie at the very bottom of the whole assembly. The original seals are viton and wear a good long time as there is hardly any oil in the leg anyway there main function seems to keep dirt and water out and not the oil in, to my mind. My '77 still has the originals and I think they will outlast me.

[jabberwocky]

While you're at it, do your friend a favor and set up his rear brake pedal correctly. It's become a major pet peeve of mine seeing these brakes set up so that the pedal is up so high

[Antietam Classic Cycle]

The V7 Sport had 2 seals and a "snap ring" from the factory, I've never seen them on any other model. I think Guzzi must have (correctly) decided that the groove and 'ring were unnecessary, eliminated them and saved $1 per bike. 

[Groover]

I like the brown. Nice on a 70's bike.

Fork seals, They sell single ones that take place of the double stack type shown in the manual. No snap ring on my 80 G5 either.

[Aaron D.]

I've seen Tontis with and without the retaining rings. Could be stock or aftermarket.

[radguzzi]

If I recall correctly, the original fitment to Tonti bikes of that era was two seals in each fork leg. Those are Part #26 in the Parts Manual. Part #25 sure looks like a circlip, but I don't recall any kind of retaining clip in the bikes I've had apart.

Yup, I'm going to go with the double seals and I could not talk Frank into the Fork Gaiters even though we are on the coast, salt air and all that... he prefers the stock caps and it's his motorcycle... ;)

Thanks,
Rob



Hey Jabberwocky,
Sounds like I would be doing YOU a favor, the brake lever stays the way it is so you are going to need to get over it.

The reason is that if it is lower the owner would tend to move his foot forward and drag the rear brake.  I would rather he need tp lift his foot to use it...  but thanks.

Later,
rd

[dl.allen]

I have the same bike and my seal covers are dried out also but no leaks and works great.  Ride on I say