CB77 early fork reassembly

[SeanCB77]

I am new to the forum, but have been utilizing the information here almost daily since I began my CB77 restoration in October.

My question is in regards to the reassembly of the early style front forks. The springs and fork tubes are all put back together. The fork seal housings are srewed into the steel fork lowers. Here is where Im having a problem. I can slide the triple tree down the fork tues, but it stops about 2 inches short of where they need to be. Any suggestions on how to lower the tree on the fork tubes without damaging the paint on either the triple tree or the fork cover? I remember reading to insert a flathead screwdriver in the pinch bolt slots, but Im afraid of damaging the paint.

[LOUD MOUSE]

Do as ya stated. ..............lm

<<<<I remember reading to insert a flathead screwdriver in the pinch bolt slots.>>>>>

I am new to the forum, but have been utilizing the information here almost daily since I began my CB77 restoration in October.

My question is in regards to the reassembly of the early style front forks. The springs and fork tubes are all put back together. The fork seal housings are srewed into the steel fork lowers. Here is where Im having a problem. I can slide the triple tree down the fork tues, but it stops about 2 inches short of where they need to be. Any suggestions on how to lower the tree on the fork tubes without damaging the paint on either the triple tree or the fork cover? I remember reading to insert a flathead screwdriver in the pinch bolt slots, but Im afraid of damaging the paint.