1/9/2019 10:09 AM
Edited Date/Time: 1/9/2019 10:13 AM
Can't tell you how many of these I have done.
The very first one was my own 01 YZ.
So...here's what you need to know.
1. Nearly all shocks in the YZ 46mm group are a drop-in swap. The only exception would be the later model shocks where the N2 reservoir is not parallel with the shock body. That said, there isn't much advantage with swapping the shock. Tuning is more important. In other words, you can make a 2001 shock work just as good as a 2009.
2. Not all SSS forks are the same. They have different lengths and different upper tube sizes, (ODs) especially 2010 and beyond. This isn't a big deal but just keep in mind that you'll need to watch for this. That said, they are basically the same fork from 2006 to 2019. Oh...the 05 is the KYB AOS fork - a twin chamber fork, but very VERY different than the 06-19 fork.
3. Keep in mind that there are different brake caliper mounts. The biggest difference is the earlier wide mount, and the narrower mounts. Again, not a big deal but watch for it.
4. Also consider things like fork guards. The designs got better in later models.
5. When purchasing something used on eBay it's "buyer beware". Some forks and shocks are in great shape, others are beat to sh*t. The good news is that KYB parts are super cheap and easy to get.
6. Don't buy ANYTHING that has a color change. Most of these have gone through a process where they strip the factory anodizing off and then anodize them a different color. This process appears to strip off the anti-friction coating on the inside (shock and fork tubes) even when sealed off.
7. It's fairly common for the lugs to come lose on KYB forks. Test for it. They can often be repaired but if they have been ran loose for too long, the treads will be trashed and the tube and lug will need to be replaced.
8. It's very common for KYB SS forks to have cracked free pistons. If they don't, the pistons will most likely be significantly degraded. Replace them with aluminum units. It's also fairly common for the damping rods to lose their Type II coating, taking out the seal and bushing with it.
9. Don't trust any suspension you buy. Take it apart and do a full inspection. And measure the spring rate as well as the length. Make sure you have the right length for your fork, (there are 5 different KYB 48mm fork spring lengths). Keep in mind that some people do some stupid stuff sometimes and you don't want to risk your health. Check EVERYTHING!!
10. You may have to create a new steering lock on your steel frame to work with a new clamp. See photo.
And I'll add this...the 48mm KYB open bath forks that came on the WRs, starting in 06, when tuned correctly, are a better fork than the SSS. Heavier, but better. Almost no degradation, which is more relevant in an off-road application.
But they don't seem as cool.
