Fork circlips // proper sizing.

AmbientMoto

XS400 Addict
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We've been slowly bringing a 1981 XS400 back to life . Working on the forks, a quick inspection revealed the original circlip/rings that hold the spring seats in place were getting a bit worse for wear. I was surprised at how little material was holding the springs seats in place, but physics...

I figured we'd upgrade them while the forks were apart.

I found some 1" Circlips (or maybe I'll call them 25mm hahaha) at Tractor Supply. The height was identical to what was in the bike (1.2mm), so they fit the groove perfectly. Now they will be much easier to remove as well for future service.

IMG_8887 2.JPG

The new circlips and the original silver ring for reference.


IMG_8889.JPG

The new circlip installed. Maybe I should clean the inside of that fork a bit more:)
 
I would stick to what they came with. The fit would be better and if it was good enough for Yamaha then that's god enough for me. I have never seen one come out and have re-used them over and over.
 
I just like to stick with what I know works. They made it like that for a reason.
 
That wear pattern on old clip strongly argues that the original groove was square cut too and not rounded like a wire clip would use.
 
I would have to see it, the slot if rounded would contact the outer edge of clip more than inboard, look at the impact marking on clip there. It is worn more on the inboard. Could be of course somebody has had it like that for awhile to turn a round groove into more of a square one, it can happen as the unit loading is pretty stout there, even more if the sharp edge was mounted facing up. Even if wrong part, it may now be better to leave it like that.

Not arguing with you as you are likely in the know there, just sayin'.......
 
Here is a poorly drawn diagram I made of what it kind of looks like. With the stock ring in place the cap is wedged all the way around the tube rather than held by parts of the c-clip.
DSC03929.JPG
 
I understand.

Looks like a modified square cut with one side chamfered to not snag parts installed lower down as they go in. The chamfer also aids correct clip setting to lock properly.

And FWIW you CAN install round wire clips in a square cut hole if the dimensions are correct for it.
 
I should also add that the cap has a groove for the ring to fit into.
DSC03931.JPG My other pics shows it better.
 

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