Harley Wheel Bearing Puller: The Ultimate Guide to Removal and Replacement

Replacing wheel bearings on a Harley-Davidson motorcycle is a common maintenance task that can be completed at home with the right tools and knowledge. A Harley wheel bearing puller is an essential tool for this job, allowing you to safely and effectively remove and replace the bearing without damaging the wheel or axle.

Understanding Wheel Bearings and Pullers

Wheel Bearings

Wheel bearings are crucial components of a motorcycle's wheels, enabling them to rotate smoothly while supporting the weight of the motorcycle and rider. They are typically made of hardened steel and consist of an inner and outer race, with ball bearings running between them.

Harley Wheel Bearing Pullers

A Harley wheel bearing puller is a specialized tool designed to remove the wheel bearing from the wheel hub. It consists of a threaded shaft, a puller hook, and a slide hammer. The threaded shaft is inserted into the wheel bearing, and the puller hook is attached to the outer race of the bearing. The slide hammer is then used to apply force to the threaded shaft, pulling the bearing off the wheel hub.

Choosing the Right Harley Wheel Bearing Puller

When selecting a Harley wheel bearing puller, consider the following factors:

• Size: Ensure the puller is compatible with the size of the wheel bearing you need to remove.
• Material: Choose a puller made of high-quality materials, such as hardened steel, to ensure durability and longevity.
• Brand: Opt for a puller from a reputable brand known for producing reliable tools.

Step-by-Step Guide to Using a Harley Wheel Bearing Puller

Materials:

• Harley wheel bearing puller
• Safety glasses
• Gloves
• Grease
• Wrench
• Hammer

Instructions:

1. Safety first: Wear safety glasses and gloves to protect yourself from debris.
2. Remove the wheel: Remove the axle nut and take off the wheel.
3. Inspect the bearing: Check the bearing for any signs of damage or wear.
4. Apply grease: Lubricate the threaded shaft of the puller with grease.
5. Insert the puller: Screw the threaded shaft of the puller into the bearing.
6. Attach the hook: Hook the puller hook onto the outer race of the bearing.
7. Use the slide hammer: Place the slide hammer over thethreaded shaft and strike it with a hammer to apply force and remove the bearing.
8. Clean the surfaces: Clean the wheel hub and bearing surfaces to remove any grease or debris.
9. Install the new bearing: Apply grease to the new bearing and slide it onto the wheel hub.
10. Tighten the puller: Screw the threaded shaft of the puller back into the bearing to tighten it in place.

Pros and Cons of Using a Harley Wheel Bearing Puller

Pros:

• Easy to use: The puller makes removing wheel bearings quick and straightforward.
• Safe: Using a puller helps prevent damage to the wheel or axle during the removal process.
• Cost-effective: A Harley wheel bearing puller is a relatively inexpensive tool that can save you money on labor costs.

Cons:

• Requires specialized tools: You will need a wrench and a slide hammer to use the puller.
• Can be difficult to remove tight bearings: In some cases, removing a stuck bearing may require additional force or a more specialized tool.

Strategies for Effective Wheel Bearing Removal

• Lubricate liberally: Apply grease to all surfaces of the puller and bearing to reduce friction and make removal easier.
• Use a high-quality puller: Invest in a sturdy and well-made puller to ensure it can handle the force required to remove the bearing.
• Be patient: Removing a wheel bearing can take time and effort. Do not rush the process to avoid damaging the wheel or bearing.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Using the wrong size puller: Always ensure the puller you are using is compatible with the size of the bearing you need to remove.
• Over-tightening the puller: Tightening the puller excessively can damage the bearing or the wheel hub.
• Neglecting safety: Always wear safety glasses and gloves when working with tools that involve striking or force.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is the best way to clean a Harley wheel bearing puller?

Use a solvent or degreaser to clean the puller thoroughly. Make sure to remove all dirt, grease, and debris.

2. How often should I replace a Harley wheel bearing?

Replace the wheel bearings every 25,000 to 30,000 miles or as per the manufacturer's recommendations.

3. Can I use a Harley wheel bearing puller on other motorcycle makes and models?

Most Harley wheel bearing pullers are designed to be used specifically on Harley-Davidson motorcycles. However, some pullers may be compatible with other makes and models.

Humorous Stories and Lessons Learned

1. The Stubborn Bearing: Once, a mechanic encountered a particularly stubborn wheel bearing that refused to budge. After hours of frustration, he resorted to using a jackhammer. The bearing finally gave way, but so did the wheel hub. Lesson learned: Be patient and use the right tools for the job.

2. The Missing Puller: A rider went on a long road trip only to realize he had forgotten his Harley wheel bearing puller. Desperate, he used a large rock to hammer the bearing off the wheel. It worked, but the bearing was damaged beyond repair. Lesson learned: Always bring the necessary tools with you.

3. The Broken Bolt: During a wheel bearing replacement, a mechanic accidentally snapped the bolt holding the puller to the bearing. Faced with a broken bolt and a stuck bearing, he spent hours drilling out the bolt and replacing it. Lesson learned: Double-check all bolts and screws before applying force.

   

Useful Tables

Table 1: Harley Wheel Bearing Puller Specifications

Table 2: Estimated Costs for Wheel Bearing Replacement

Table 3: Troubleshooting Common Wheel Bearing Problems