Leaky fork seal

[tjteen]

Hey guys have an 84 shadow 700 and I noticed the fork seal leaking on it. Well my question is as follows: how long could I ride on leaking seals? I know its bad, bit I am a college student who doesn't have the resources to fix it at this time. I don't really ride much just commuting, and I garage it if it rains.

[CBH]

Leaking fork seals are not good! Improperly working forks effects handling, and leaking fluid on the front brakes is an issue. Get the new fork seals as soon as you can.

[John Hopkins]

If it's just a small leak you should be ok for a few months , it only takes two days at the most to fit new seals yourself..It looks like a big job but the front end comes off easily enough and the seals don't cost too much..

John.

[GiveItToMikey]

As JH said small leak is not critical. I've ridden for quite a while on leaky seals. Just keep an eye on it. You don't want the oil dribbling down your fork tubes.

I just had mine replaced the cost was about $150. That's the low end. Independent mechanic working from his garage. Honda wanted $300. Definitely cheaper to do it yourself if you've got the gumption. Even better if you've got the tools

[93gc40]

It will cost you $30 and a few hours to fix. Add time and $$ if Beer is involved. If you damage the forks, cause you ran them dry your looking at $300 just for the parts. That said, I have seen fork run for years with leaky seals and an occasional topping off. You don't mind getting squirted with oil on every bump, So be it.

[tjteen]

Thanks guys, definitely my next project.