I have a GT mountain bike which is about 15 years old. The bike is generally in good condition and works as a great commuter tool and casual rider. The only problem I have is that the suspension forks appear to have play in them. When I apply the front brake there is a juddering; not from the vertical movement which appears smooth but from within the fork sliders as though there is excessive play somewhere. I'd like to strip the forks to investigate but not sure if thats possible.

I've taken a few photos and wonder if anyone could help?











The nuts at the bottom of the forks come off to expose a threaded section and I assume that the black plastic top cap should unscrew in some way. I've seen a strip down video on YouTube on a similar set of forks but wondered if mine are in fact serviceable. Bit loath to strip down without advice as I need the bike for daily use.

Would appreciate any pointers. Many thanks.

Sliding suspension forks are well known for wear/slop between the uppers and lowers. Low cost ones like pictured likely are on the worse end of the range. This is why on high end forks much effort is taken with surface treatments and bushing design. Additionally the distance (or lack of) between the upper and lower bushings effect the support or slop.


It's very doubtful that you will ever find replacement bushings for this fork for a few reasons. It's doubtful That you'll improve the fork's condition. Keeping it lubed will slow down future wear. Andy.

Thanks for the response Andy.
Is it possible that I can strip the forks to inspect or would I be better just swopping them out for a new set of forks?
Cheers

Consider if you really need a sus fork. If not, get an appropriately sized rigid fork as a replacement.

Sometimes forks use (some) generic parts. Ive been able to get bushings and seals from industrial suppliers on occasion.

Cheers dabac
How would my forks come apart so that I can inspect?

In general terms, undo the screws at the bottom of the legs, and see if that is enough to slide the lower legs off.

Ok. Thank you. Will try that in the morning.

If the legs are frozen (as in no suspension movement) that you might not be able to remove them without possible damage to the bushings. Don't expect to find replacement parts for these forks (that are not already installed in a fork). Andy.

Hi
Tried to remove the lowers from the forks this morning by removing the allen headed nut at the bottom of each fork leg and gently pulling. No movement at all so I think the exposed threaded section is possibly screwed through the bottom of the fork leg itself and the nuts I removed are acting as dust covers. The forks work fine in the vertical plane but there is a small amount of play in the legs which translates to a lot of juddering when the front brake is applied. I ride round it by using the rear first and most.
Certainly feels like the bushes are worn and after 15 years I'm not surprised. Local bike shop has indicated that they can replace the forks with similar items for not much money so will likely go down this route.
I appreciate all the help and advice though.
Thank you.

Typically a replacement is best for those. Many of those forks even though they can be disassembled parts arent available.

You can dig around for a PDF for disassembly/maintenance to help take them apart. They are out there for some forks.

-SP