Norton forks

If the external are normal strength then the internals need to come out, I prefer external but only because the internals rust and that falls into the oil and creates a grinding paste and the forks wear out. BSA had external springs so start there, Triumph also used external springs. However even external springs rust, so gaiters will hide that and protect the seals from road dirt. I grease up external springs so they do not rust.

It’s as broad as it’s long, the external springs can wear the stanchions, in my view you should change fork oil every year and that should prevent rust building up on internal springs, Norton forks aren’t anything special so there’s no reason in my book why they should rust more than any other make! 

Dan 

Hi, I have a pair of N15cs forks with external springs. I believe they are listed on the G15cs part of the parts list held by the Matchless Owners ~Club spares people. I have a copy on my other computer I found yesterday. Try the Norton Master Spares list for 1963-1972. Pt No 021789 these might be internal, but early forks were external, ask Les Emery, he should know. The Access Norton website is useful for odd details. 

I can't say I have ever seen a trace of rust on my internal springs.  No water gets in, and they get sloshed with oil. 

On the other hand, exposed external springs will rust - even if you 'intend' to keep them greased.  I can guarantee that you won't keep them sufficiently well greased to prevent any rusting.  If the springs are visible, the fork seals will also have a hard time.  The seals are single-lipped, and not up to sealing the oil in, and keeping water and crud out.

If you fit external springs, you will need to remove the internal ones, otherwise the forks will be very hard indeed.  Two independent springs mean twice the standard spring rate.  Not good.  Norton forks are already stiffly sprung.

Paul