A65 Spitfire questions

[RobW]

1967 Spitfire

Hi all ☺️ A couple of questions. I recently replaced the fork springs as I thought the movement was a bit spongy ie up and down via applying the front break. I noticed the new springs were some what longer  I thought must have been the problem old ones had compressed. After fitting the new re oiling and new seals I must admit I am a little disappointed it still seems quite soft ? Suggestions would be appreciated or have I been spoilt with riding a modern bike as to be quite honest I can't remember what I was used to back in 69 😉.
Not related question I have noticed while riding the bars are slightly offline at the top steering yoke. I loosened the pinch bolt took off the damper and loosened the center nut but the bars/yoke would not move do I need to tap with a mallet from underneath to release?
Thanks
Rob

[Bess]

Hi Rob,
           Loosen the top fork nuts, top yolk pinch bolt, the two lower yolk pinch bolts and the wheel spindle. Tap the bottom of the top yolk to break the tapers from the yolk and fork tube. After aligning 'bounce' the forks with the brake on, check alignment and re-tighten the yolks and wheel spindle.

Best wishes...

[berniej]

Hi Rob,

What Bess said.... but it might also indicate that your rear wheel alignment is a bit off if only noticeable when riding.

You could also experiment with higher viscosity grades of oil to increase the damping action.

Cheers,
Bernie