u/Thin_Drop3069

While working on my ‘81 sportster project, I decided that it was time to turn my attention to the fork. The bottom tree cover is rusted and needs replaced. The issue that quickly became apparent though is that the top tree feels welded in place. To remove the fork from the head tube I was able to hammer the bottom tree down until there was enough clearance, but the top tree doesn’t move even slightly with a firm hammer blow. I’ve tried removing the caps on the shocks as well, and besides having springs come flying out at me, it made no difference.

Advice would be much appreciated. I don’t want to buy a new fork, as that would blow up the budget for this project.