It figures that any time I plan on scheulded repairs, something else has to give out too. I was planning on new tires, tubes, oil change, and front pads to be done at 8k miles. But after the last few rides, I notices a squick noise from the front tire. It wasn't brake noise and only did it in a turn while on the throttle or just on the throttle when the weight was transfered to the rear. I just determined that the front wheel bearings will need to be re-packed of grease. Then upon inspection, I noticed that the left fork has a leaky seal. So now added to the list is re-pack bearings, replace both fork oil seals and dust covers. Since I will be opening up the forks, might as well change that oil and get better front springs.

So a quick question, how hard is it to change the fork oil seals and change out the springs? And what spring rate would be good for a 225lb person?

 

Try this trick before replacing the fork seals.
Find a Negative from a 35mm camera (hard plastic film) slice it at an angle and run it under the dust seal and remove the dirt. I did this on my old bike and the leak stopped. After 3 years it never did leak again.

 

Hey Man, Springs are pretty easy, I did them and revalved no problem. Just noticed a few weeks ago that Rocky Mountain ATV site has a bunch of vids re: bike repair, including seal replacement. Maybe check that out to see what you are up against. Later!

 

I tried that trick with the 35mm negative and got some crud out from underneth the seal. I went a step further by getting a pick tool and paper towel underneth the seal and got even more crud out. The left seal was the worst one, probably the reason why it started to leak. If the seal stops leaking, this will save me half the trouble and just enjoy the ride. The wheel bearing I will have to grease any ways when I do the tires.


This is how I discovered the leaky seal ^

 

Took the KLX for a good bumpy dirt road ride. That left fork seal is gone. Even after cleaning the dust seal, oil is still smearing out. This time it is clean oil. So I guess I'm going ahead with the fork seal replacement and spring upgrades.