490 fork modifications?

[ola_martin]

I've finaly gotten around to building my 81 490, I'm going to try to race it, never raced/ridden VMX ever, just modern.

So, in the back I have a set of Ohlins, but I'm disassembling the fork today for rebuild/paint, and I wonder if anyone would share some tips and trix if they have.

Oil, type and level? Other good modifications??

[holeshot buddy]

standard springs too soft
oil level 130mm from top forks collapsed
10 weight oil
is ball park depends on  rider weight and ability


where are all the maico gurus

[Zakk]

not being a Maico owner, but 130mm fork oil level seems pretty hight?

[JohnnyO]

Rusty is on the money..
I use .46 springs
120mm oil height
12w oil

[KTMaico]

I have Race Tech Cartridge Emulators in mine, I think Maico Only springs fitted, not sure oil level or weight.

Kevin

[FritzG]

Over the years I've tried the stock 81 damper rods, Wheelsmith and Works Performance damper rod modifications and the stock 83 damper rods. At one time I had 5 sets of 81-83 forks that I was testing. The damper rod modification that I like the best and currently run on both my 81 and 84 is the 83 spec damping rod porting. I have not tried the Race Tech emulators in my 81 or 84 yet. I do have them in my external spring vintage forks and like them. I run 10 wt Lucas fork oil 6" from the top of the tube.