I'm starting to get a squeaking noise from what seems like the upper steering stem. It seems to squeak when you put a lot of preasure on it like on a hard turn in a bind, it seems tight though and not much play when moved. Has anyone had to replace the oil seals, bushings on these or did you just lube them? Any advice appreciated...

 

I'm in the process of replacing my steering stem and all the bushings etc. I have Y2Kodiak also. The steering stem bushing is a two piece bushing with 2 oil seals that fit inside the bushing. I forgot to put grease on it the first time I replaced them and it wasn't long before it when bad again. Now I have the whole front of the bike apart. The easiest way to replace the steering stem bushing is to remove the front plastic. This bushing is below the cap that covers the bolts that hold on the handle bars. You can try and do it without removing the plastic, but it is very difficult. I would say that you need to replace it because you say you hear a squeak. If you have play, side to side, in the handle bars then it is the steering stem bushing. If you decide to take off the plastic then go ahead and check the valve clearances and anything else you can think of. It takes me about 2 hours to get the front plastic off. Having a manual is also a big plus. But you have to be careful, there are many things they tell you in the manual that are not necessary. Like checking the drive belt. They tell you to take off the front and rear plastic. This is wrong. All you have to do is take off the foot board and trans. cover. I hope this helps, let me know what happens.

Later,
Mark.

 

Thanks for the info...