Fork Seals

Hi all,

I have a weeping fork seal and so removed the forks to get the seals replaced. Post removing the forks I noticed there was a thin metal ring (split) in a groove on one of the forks. I had a good look for one on the other but couldn't find one. (see pic).
What are these for, are they necessary and what are they called if I need to replace the missing one.


Thanks in advance

Regards
Ali

 

They are the retaining springs, where you push them into the groove in the triple clamp to make sure they are seated correctly. Always possible to have one that’s gone missing from previous work.

 

Do I need them? If so any recommends where I can get them

 

What model/year and post up pic of groove in fork

 

I don't think that they perform any function other than locating the fork in the default position. If you have one then you can use that fork as a reference for the second. Keen to be corrected if that's wrong but I wasn't concerned when one fled under the workbench when I did mine although I did recover it and use it in the end.