XLCH Fork Tube Length

[billpedalino]

The fork tubes on my 1970 appear to be too long, but I'm not really certain. When I measure from the center of the axle to the side screw on the lower tree on my original '64 CH, it measures 1.75" shorter than the same measurement on my 1970. However, the overall length of the 1970 fork tubes is 22.75", which I believe (?) is the stock length. Maybe my tubes and fork length are correct for 1970, but I became skeptical of the length when the rubber gaiters appeared to be too extended when installed. But they may just be an inaccurate reproduction of the gaiters. Any input would be appreciated...

[Rubone]

Is it a mix of high and low ground clearance parts?

[billpedalino]

Is it a mix of high and low ground clearance parts?

That's a good question Robbie and probably the heart of the matter. The parts book distinguished between the two but doesn't offer lengths. The standard for the 1970 CH is the 'high road clearance' tube (45953-68). Apparently I installed a set of Frank's fork tubes when I was young and I don't know which style (length) I bought. However, I measured another set of earlier, stock, OEM tubes that I have (I think 45953-52) and they measure 22.75" as well.
I always have some confusion when piecing XL forks together from parts, but this is the factory-original front end that came with the bike, with the exception of the fork tubes. That's why I'm hoping for a definitive measurement of both length tubes, Part numbers 45953-68 (high) and 45955-68 (low)..Or maybe an on-the-bike assembled length from axle centerline to the center of the side (cover) hole in the lower tree.
When viewed on the lift, the bike doesn't appear to be excessively high in the front, but it does have a slightly high attitude (19" front wheel) and the gaiters are fairly well opened up. Again, it could just be the aftermarket gaiters and my over-critical eye.
Thanks for your consideration,....

[otis71]

22.75”-high clearance
21.75”- low

[billpedalino]

22.75”-high clearance
21.75”- low

Yes, I found another set of OEM tubes yesterday and the difference in OAL is about 1.25" - so that coincides with your measurements and I am running the shorter tubes. Than you for researching this.

So, it looks like my tube length is correct and the imported fork boots that I have are fabricated with the typical inaccuracies that we've all grown to dislike. I ordered another set from Bill's in Pa who usually sells high quality stuff. But they appear to be imported as well, so we'll see of they more closely resemble OEM.

Thank you all for your responses.

[1939wl]

Hi Bill,
Just measured my 1966 XLCH, stone stock, and mine are 21.75"
Sorry to be late on this, just got to the shop today. Seems like you've got it.

[otis71]

I have some used oem boots if you hit a wall. Don’t buy the V Twin ones. Might as well be made of plastic, don’t stretch and won’t go over the retainer. I tried heat and silicone spray with no luck.

[billpedalino]

I have some used oem boots if you hit a wall. Don’t buy the V Twin ones. Might as well be made of plastic, don’t stretch and won’t go over the retainer. I tried heat and silicone spray with no luck.

Otis,
I received a set from Bill's Cycle and they're not great, but better than what I had on the bike. Looks I'm going to use them for now and keep looking for OEM. But I might be interested in your boots - are they in good condition?