G5 Front forks removal

Information relating to the Matchless G5 or AJS Model 8 350cc Lightweight
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Trebor160
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Joined: Fri Nov 03, 2017 9:36 pm
Location: Oldham UK

G5 Front forks removal

Post by Trebor160 »

Hi - I'm in the midst of stripping down my 1960 G5 for restoration. But I'm struggling like hell to remove the top and lower yokes. I've undone all the bolts and top nuts, should the top yoke come of easily or does it need some "persuasion". Any advice on this would be gratefully received. Thanks.
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clanger9
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Re: G5 Front forks removal

Post by clanger9 »

The fork tubes can rust up and get stuck in the yoke.

Bodger's method: with everything slackened off and the bike supported, partially screw in a fork cap bolt and give it a whack with a soft mallet. The fork tube should free up from the yokes so you can lift the top yoke off...
1989 Moto Morini Dart 350
1993 Ducati 750SS
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ajscomboman
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Re: G5 Front forks removal

Post by ajscomboman »

Try also belting a wedge (cold chisel or screwdriver into the pinch slot of the bottom yolk, this'll help relieve the compression around the fork tube.
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Ozmadman
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Re: G5 Front forks removal

Post by Ozmadman »

Check the condition of the front mudguard, has it been filled? a sure sign of a front ender. They could be slightly bent like mine (one of mine) were, a bit of brute force got them out, careful with the wedge idea, the yokes are cast and liable to snap if you push it too far.
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Paul
1960 Model 8
1974 Yamaha RD250B US Model 6 speed
Trebor160
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Joined: Fri Nov 03, 2017 9:36 pm
Location: Oldham UK

Re: G5 Front forks removal

Post by Trebor160 »

Thanks guys for the help, much appreciated. Looks like it needed plenty of WD and some gentle persuasion :-)
Andy51
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Re: G5 Front forks removal

Post by Andy51 »

Remember, don't force it, use a bigger hammer! Andy
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