Releasing the Rear Pre Load Knob

[Himself]

While getting more familiar with V-Strom today, I decided to reset all of the suspension to factory setting.

Everything went well until it came to the rear preload adjuster which is all but seized. I can move it, about 4 clicks but after that it is solid.

Looking through the forum I noticed that someone had removed the plastic end cap (the bit you grip and twist) and had used a socket - great idea but I can't work out how to remove the end cap - any suggestions ??

It is all sprayed in WD40 and I'll leave it to soak overnight, but if there are any tips or tricks to releasing the preload adjuster, which I suspect hasn't moved in a couple of years, I'd be most grateful.

 

[bako]

If I turn my preload adjuster it doesn't do any thing for the first 6 clicks, and then it's quite stiff especially if the bike is on side stand.

[UK_Vstrom650]

The cap on the Glee is held on by one screw (made of cheese). If you do remove it, be aware of the two little ball-bearings that will fire out when you take the cap off.

[Gassoon]

Mr Diver on here reccommended spraying in ACF 50 (corrosion protector) and it worked for my stuck preload overnight.
Is the plastic knob stuck on after removing the single screw? Should just pull away, with wiggling.

Also, see here https://www.vstrom.info/Smf/index.php/topic,17505.0.html

[Himself]

Excellent stuff, thank you.

WD40 has made some improvements. More applied tonight I think (or ACF50)

I'll also upload a photo of mine as there isn't a centre screw visible. Essentially I'm just not looking at the job right  This cannot be this difficult, but it is 

[Brockett]

Centre stand or padock stand?

[Himself]

I've mainly been using the side stand. Also tried the main stand. I've got the adjuster turning now, WD40 did it normal wonders, I'm just perplexed as to how to remove the plastic knob.

Outsmarted by moulded plastic ... 

[edbailey]

Afternoon all.

Have any of you noticed that your preload knob clicks twice per one full revolution of the knob, once at half way and then again at a full rev?

When adjusting my preload I had to turn it to full/hard then wind back. With my 'double' click situation I turned the knob back 6 clicks so 3 full revolutions. Any guesses how far off the factory settings I am? Too nervous to wind it to the softest setting in case it just winds all the way off and comes apart 

[Ianmc]

The standard factory settings are 2 lines visible on the shock absorber.
I always have to use a torch if I lose track of where it is after I have had a play with it from the standard setting.

[Gert]

For an overview on suspension adjustment, https://www.vstrom.info/Smf/index.php/topic,7132.0.html