Scratches on your fork stanchions may seem like a minor cosmetic issue, but they can actually lead to some serious problems with your suspension. The dust seals on your forks are designed to keep the oil in and the dust out, but any imperfection from either worn or scratched stanchions can quickly damage these seals, and it can be very difficult to see the extent of the damage.
Damage to Dust Seals and Bushings
When the stanchions are scratched, the dust seals may not be able to create a proper seal, allowing dirt and debris to enter the fork. This can lead to accelerated wear on the bushings and other internal components. Over time, the scratches can also cause the seals to tear or degrade, leading to oil leaks and decreased performance.
Repair Options
If you have a scratch on your stanchions, there are a few options for repair. You can try to file down the scratch and polish the surface, but this is a temporary fix and may not address deeper scratches. Another option is to use a specialized repair kit like Scratch Cover, which includes resin and tools to fill in the scratch and restore a smooth surface.
If the scratches are severe or the seals are damaged, you may need to replace the entire fork crown and stanchion assembly (CSU). This can be an expensive repair, so it’s best to address any stanchion scratches as soon as possible to prevent further damage.
In summary, while scratches on your fork stanchions may seem minor, they can lead to bigger problems with your suspension if left unchecked. Be sure to inspect your stanchions regularly and consider repairing any scratches to keep your bike running smoothly and safely.