Leaky Fork Seal

My ride is a 2002 Heritage Softail - fitted a set of 2" overs for that extra bit of clearance. Brand new from Rollies Qld. - Fitted new HD seals in the process. 500k later the right seal starts to leak - fitted new seals. - Same problem repeats itself 1000k later - same seal , same fork ??? - Baffled ??? -
Anyone got some clues as to why. The leak is slow and bike still rides fine but the oil film on RHS is constant. -- HELP !!:cussing:

Take a close look at the tube. Any scratch or burr on the surface of the tube within the seal travel area will cut a notch in the seal lip. If you find something, don't file or go after it with abrasive paper or cloth - borrow your wifes nail buffer and 'buff' it off down to the no feel point. If it's worse than that - buy a new fork tube or be prepared to refill the fork oil more often. Usually a raised scratch can be buffed down to a point that the seal continues to work.

Do NOT try to replace these seals without the proper seal installer. Attempting to 'drive' the seal into the slider with anything other will destroy the seal.

Bill C.

Many thanks.

if it is a gouge you may be able to use some jb type epoxy and buff smooth

OK - I'll try your remedies - and again , thanks - it's been a real pain in the but - so many H.D. shop " Eddie the Experts " telling me different fixes , like - your front forks are worn , buy new ones etc etc. - bikes only done 38000k
( 24000 miles your talk ) - and it's all been easy riding , good country roads and freeway stuff. - R & R - SHADOW.