Norton Service Release Database N80

SERVICE RELEASE N80

NATURE OF RELEASE: Changing oil in front forks MODELS AFFECTED: Commando (all models) DISTRIBUTION: Worldwide (Trade only) EXPLANATION: Benefit is to be gained from draining and refilling the front forks at the first 500 mile service. This operation has not previously been included in the first free service. At the same time as the oil is changed we advise that the alignment of the fork legs on the wheel spindle be checked. This is a very simple matter and an improvement in fork action can doubtless be gained on some motorcycles.   ACTION: Using the small drain screw at the bottom side of each fork leg, drain off all lubricant. The large chrome top bolts securing the instrument cases should be slackened and lifted to allow air to enter. To ensure total evacuation of initial fill oil which will have become dirty during early bedding in process, the front brake should be applied and the forks compressed and released several times during drainage. When refilling, refit the drain plugs and sealing washers, measure 150 c. c. (5-1/2 Fl. oz. ) of SAE20 oil for each fork leg then commence filling. Natural drainage into the fork sliders is a lengthy operation. We therefore recommend pouring in as much of the measured quantity as possible, placing the hand over the top of the fork main tube and compressing and releasing the forks several times. The remaining oil should be added and the process repeated. When the first leg is filled to the correct level, refit and tighten the chrome top bolt and repeat for the other leg. To align the fork legs, merely slacken the spindle pinch bolt on the left leg, bounce the forks several times and retighten. The legs are then aligned correctly. February 1972 Norton Villier Canada Limited