| Author | Message | ||
     Portero72 |
So, my last few rides on the Uly have involved several water crossings, some up to a foot deep. On a dry ride last week I put it on the kickstand and noticed rusty water dripping out of the axle. Is it time for new bearings? The bike is a 2009 with 65k miles, and the last set was replaced at roughly 50k. Tips or suggestions for removal and install are appreciated. Just FYI, I bought some from the HD dealer. Just to be sure. | ||
| Natexlh1000 |
Sounds bad to me. To be sure, you can pop off the seal with a sharp little pick to verify it. | ||
| D_adams |
I would. Bought an 09 in the beginning of April, that was one of the first things I did was tires and bearings. Saw a pic someone posted where they drilled a small hole in the rim at the center where it would allow water back out easier. Sure, water can get in, but back out much quicker, especially if it's spinning. I'll be doing it to mine next time the wheel is off, didn't see the pic in time to do it when I had it off earlier. My axle was horribly oxidized and I had a fun time getting it out of the swingarm. | ||
| Griffmeister |
"My axle was horribly oxidized and I had a fun time getting it out of the swingarm." Good point, if you see water, even if it's not coming from the bearings, you should pull the axle while you still can. Clean and lubricate well before reinstalling. I have heard of other people drilling holes in their hubs. Might want to do a couple so that there is always a hole near the bottom. Funny thing is that the hub on the front wheel is wide open. Why there's a difference I don't know. | ||
| Hughlysses |
Tips or suggestions for removal and install are appreciated. Words of wisdom on rear wheel bearings from Al Lighton: http://www.badweatherbikers.com/cgibin/discus/show .cgi?tpc=142838&post=1505281#POST1505281 | ||
| Electraglider_1997 |
Anyone buying any motorcycle should remove the axles and generously apply anti-seize lubricant. The longer a bike is kept without this preventative measure the more difficult the removal will be. Imagine having to remove a wheel on a trip and the axle is corroded to the wheel. You go from a fairly easy removal to one that is nigh on impossible given the circumstances. For most of you I am preaching to the choir but new owners should take heed and anti-seize the axles. Once done the axles slide out of the wheels like butter. |
