Removal
1. Support the motorcycle on its centrestand if fitted, or on an auxiliary stand that does not take the weight through any part of the rear suspension, or by using a hoist. Position a support under the rear wheel or swingarm so that it does not drop when the shock absorber is removed, but also making sure that the weight of the machine is off the rear suspension so that the shock is not compressed. Make a note of which side the bolts go in from.
2. On XL600V models unscrew the bolts securing the brake hose channel to the underside of the swingarm on the right-hand side and displace it (see illustration).
12.2. Unscrew the bolts (arrowed) and displace the hose guard
3. On XL650V models unscrew the bolt securing the chain guide to the frame on the left-hand side and remove it, noting how it fits. 4 On XRV750-L to N (1990 to 1992) models unscrew the bolt securing the drain hose guide to the frame on the left-hand side and remove it, noting how it fits.
5. Unscrew the nuts and withdraw the bolts securing the linkage components to each other, the shock absorber, the swingarm and the frame, noting which way round and how they fit (see illustrations 11.4a and b, 12.5a, band c, and 11.11). It is best to mark the top or side of the linkage arm and rod so that it can be installed the same way round. On XL600V and XRV750 models they may already be marked, but whether the marks are visible is another matter.
12.5a. Unscrew the nuts, withdraw the bolts...
12.5b ...and remove the linkage components
12.5c. Suspension linkage assembly bolts (arrowed) - XL650V
Inspection
6. Withdraw the spacers from the linkage arm and swingarm, noting any difference in sizes, then lever out the grease seals (see illustrations). Thoroughly clean all components, removing all traces of dirt, corrosion and grease.
12.6a. Withdraw the spacers...
12.6b ...and lever out the grease seals
7. Inspect all components closely, looking for obvious signs of wear such as heavy scoring, or for damage such as cracks or distortion.
Slip each spacer back into its bush or bearing and check that there is not an excessive amount of freeplay between the two components. Renew any components as required.
8. On XL600V-H and J (1987 and 1988) models check the condition of the bushes in the linkage arm and rod. Measure the internal diameter of the bush sleeve and the external diameter of the spacer that fits in it and renew any components that are worn beyond the service limit specified at the beginning of the Chapter.
9. On all other models check the condition of the needle roller bearings (see illustration). Refer to Tools and Workshop Tips (Section 5) in the Reference section for more information on bearings.
12.9. Check the needle bearings for wear and damage
10. Worn bushes or bearings can be drifted out of their bores, but note that removal will destroy them; new bearings should be obtained before work commences. The new bushes or bearings should be pressed or drawn into their bores rather than driven into position. In the absence of a press, a suitable drawbolt tool can be made up as described in Tools and Workshop Tips in the Reference section. Set them centrally in their bores.
11. Check the condition of the grease seals and renew them if they are damaged, deformed or deteriorated. Lubricate the needle bearings, spacers and seals with multipurpose grease (see illustration).
12.11. Smear the bearings with grease
12. Press the seals squarely into place (see illustration). Install the spacers (see illustration 12.6a).
12.12a. Press the grease seals in...
12.12b ...using a hammer and piece of wood if necessary
Installation
13. Installation is the reverse of removal. Apply multi-purpose grease to the bearings, spacers and bolts. Where marked, install the linkage arm with the arrow before the FR or FRONT mark pointing to the front, and the linkage rod with the marked side facing up (see illustration). Install the bolts and nuts finger-tight only until all components are in position, then counter-hold the bolts and tighten the nuts securely.
12.13. Make sure any directional arrows point forwards