A 1988 GS with the the round top nuts with the 4 notches. The C spanner in the tool kit won't do it and I'd prefer one with two lugs rather than one. Any links to one that will do the job please?
Recommend me a C spanner for the top nuts on my front forks.
- Thread starter Posh Pete
- Start date
If nothing available, maybe make a “pattern” of the outside of the nut with some modelling clay or similar and get a local small engineering firm to make you a spanner from it ??
You were after the same thing just over 5 years ago, Pete... https://www.ukgser.com/community/threads/recommend-me-a-c-spanner.300384/
Will this do the job...? https://www.wemoto.com/bikes/bmw/r_100_gs/89/picture/headstock_c_wrench_plus_fork_caps
Well spotted Mike. I too was reminded of this after it popped up in a search I did! A bit spooky!
I solved the problem then by using this or something like it. https://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/16637788...wilNRlBLpKBIjjzTTdBDE81ybRCDyFYYaAqarEALw_wcB
However, it's really not robust enough and I was hoping for something a little heftier.
Puk's suggestion makes sense if all else fails.
And that one from Wemoto...? 
Very similar to the spanner on my old R60/6 Mike. The pins are for the chrome cap to the forks. I don't think they'd be strong enough for the top nut. Otherwise it's similar to the one I already have. Thanks anyway.And that one from Wemoto...?
That BMW tool kit puts modern BMW to shame!
Anyway, I'm sorted! I adapted the one mentioned above and a couple of clouts with a rubber hammer loosened it. The hook spanner in the tool kit finished the job.
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Next questions for the airhead hive ...
1. How do I know what springs are fitted? OEM or other ...
2. Iirc there's a recommended mix for the fork oil and different for each leg. I used it last year but I'm damned if I can remember the "recipe".
1. How do I know what springs are fitted? OEM or other ...
2. Iirc there's a recommended mix for the fork oil and different for each leg. I used it last year but I'm damned if I can remember the "recipe".
Too late to edit! However, for the benefit of others and re Q2, I think this should do the job ... https://bmwmotorcycletech.info/front-fork-oils-amounts.htm
Also here https://www.ukgser.com/community/threads/r100gs-fork-oil.245896/
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Hiya Pete. Re Q1. All three sets of aftermarket springs I've seen dispensed with the OEM spacer (all were a few cm longer to allow for this). And all were progressively wound (unlike BMW?) One set were Hyperpro, designed for a GSPD. These were even longer - albeit only slightly - than the other two (makes unknown), both from '89 bikes. Doesn't fully answer your question, but if no spacer then I'd say aftermarket...
Thanks. There is a spacer so I'll assume the springs are OEM.
Has anyone been to see Mr. Maxton for airhead suspension works? Ron Williams and son, they have a very well respected name in various motorcycle circles. Or is a standard 'off the shelf' Wilbers just as good? I have a Wilbers on the back of the GS, but no idea what is in the front because I have never looked!
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