Harley Davidson Wheel Bearings: Everything You Need to Know

Harley Davidson motorcycles are known for their distinctive style, powerful engines, and high performance. However, like any machine, Harley Davidson motorcycles require regular maintenance and repair to keep them running smoothly. One important aspect of motorcycle maintenance is the maintenance and replacement of wheel bearings.

Wheel bearings are essential components that allow the wheels to rotate smoothly and freely. They are located in the hubs of the wheels and consist of a set of small, precision-engineered balls or rollers that are held in place by a cage. When the wheel rotates, the balls or rollers roll against the inner and outer races of the bearing, reducing friction and allowing the wheel to turn with minimal resistance.

The Importance of Wheel Bearings

Wheel bearings play a crucial role in the performance and safety of your Harley Davidson motorcycle. Proper lubrication and maintenance of wheel bearings ensure:

• Smooth and efficient wheel rotation: Properly lubricated and maintained wheel bearings reduce friction and allow the wheels to rotate freely, resulting in improved handling and performance.
• Reduced wear and tear: Properly maintained wheel bearings help prevent premature wear and tear of the wheel hubs and other components.
• Increased safety: Worn or damaged wheel bearings can lead to increased friction, which can cause the wheels to lock up or seize, potentially leading to accidents.

Common Types of Harley Davidson Wheel Bearings

Harley Davidson motorcycles use different types of wheel bearings depending on the model and year of manufacture. The most common types include:

• Tapered roller bearings: These bearings consist of a set of tapered rollers that are held in place by a cage. They are commonly used in the front wheels of Harley Davidson motorcycles.
• Ball bearings: These bearings consist of a set of precision-engineered balls that are held in place by a cage. They are commonly used in the rear wheels of Harley Davidson motorcycles.
• Needle bearings: These bearings consist of a set of small, cylindrical rollers that are held in place by a cage. They are commonly used in the steering head of Harley Davidson motorcycles.

Inspection, Maintenance, and Replacement of Harley Davidson Wheel Bearings

Regular inspection, maintenance, and replacement of Harley Davidson wheel bearings are essential to ensure the proper functioning and safety of your motorcycle.

• Inspection: Inspect the wheel bearings for any signs of wear or damage during routine maintenance. Look for any pitting, scoring, or other irregularities on the bearing surfaces.
• Lubrication: Wheel bearings require regular lubrication to reduce friction and prevent premature wear. Use a high-quality grease specifically designed for wheel bearings.
• Replacement: Replace worn or damaged wheel bearings promptly to prevent further damage to the wheel hubs or other components. Harley Davidson recommends replacing wheel bearings every 25,000 to 30,000 miles.

Table: Harley Davidson Wheel Bearing Inspection Intervals

Table: Harley Davidson Wheel Bearing Replacement Intervals

Table: Harley Davidson Wheel Bearing Torque Specifications

Step-by-Step Guide to Replacing Harley Davidson Wheel Bearings

Replacing Harley Davidson wheel bearings requires specialized tools and knowledge. If you are not comfortable performing this task yourself, it is recommended to have it done by a qualified mechanic.

Materials:

• New Harley Davidson wheel bearings
• High-quality grease
• Wheel bearing puller
• Wheel bearing installer
• Torque wrench

Instructions:

1. Remove the wheel: Loosen the axle nut and remove the wheel from the motorcycle.
2. Remove the old bearings: Use a wheel bearing puller to remove the old bearings from the wheel hub.
3. Clean the wheel hub: Clean the wheel hub thoroughly to remove any dirt or debris.
4. Lubricate the new bearings: Apply a generous amount of grease to the new bearings before installing them.
5. Install the new bearings: Use a wheel bearing installer to install the new bearings into the wheel hub.
6. Tighten the axle nut: Tighten the axle nut to the specified torque using a torque wrench.
7. Reinstall the wheel: Reinstall the wheel onto the motorcycle and torque the axle nut to the specified torque.

Pros and Cons of Replacing Harley Davidson Wheel Bearings Yourself

Pros:

• Save money: Replacing Harley Davidson wheel bearings yourself can save you a significant amount of money compared to having it done by a mechanic.
• Gain knowledge: Replacing wheel bearings is a valuable skill that can save you time and money in the long run.
• Satisfaction: There is a sense of satisfaction in completing a task yourself, especially one that involves maintaining your motorcycle.

Cons:

• Requires specialized tools: Replacing Harley Davidson wheel bearings requires specialized tools, such as a wheel bearing puller and installer.
• Can be time-consuming: Replacing wheel bearings can be a time-consuming process, especially if you are not experienced.
• Risk of damage: If not done properly, replacing wheel bearings can damage the wheel hubs or other components.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Replacing Harley Davidson Wheel Bearings

• Using the wrong tools: Using the wrong tools can damage the wheel bearings or the wheel hubs. Always use the correct tools for the job.
• Over-tightening the axle nut: Over-tightening the axle nut can damage the wheel bearings or the wheel hub. Always torque the axle nut to the specified torque using a torque wrench.
• Using the wrong grease: Using the wrong grease can damage the wheel bearings. Always use a high-quality grease specifically designed for wheel bearings.
• Installing the bearings incorrectly: Installing the bearings incorrectly can damage the bearings or the wheel hub. Always follow the instructions carefully when installing wheel bearings.
• Not replacing the bearings in pairs: Always replace wheel bearings in pairs, even if only one is damaged. This will ensure that both bearings are operating at the same level of efficiency.

Tips and Tricks for Replacing Harley Davidson Wheel Bearings

• Use a high-quality wheel bearing puller and installer. This will make the job easier and less likely to damage the bearings or the wheel hubs.
• Apply a generous amount of grease to the new bearings before installing them. This will help to extend the life of the bearings.
• Tighten the axle nut to the specified torque using a torque wrench. This will prevent the bearings from being over-tightened or under-tightened.
• Replace the wheel bearings in pairs, even if only one is damaged. This will ensure that both bearings are operating at the same level of efficiency.
• If you are not comfortable replacing wheel bearings yourself, have it done by a qualified mechanic.

Conclusion

Harley Davidson wheel bearings are essential components that play a crucial role in the performance and safety of your motorcycle. Regular inspection, maintenance, and replacement of wheel bearings are important to ensure that they are functioning properly and that you are getting the most out of your motorcycle. By following the tips and instructions in this article, you can keep your Harley Davidson wheel bearings in good condition and extend the life of your motorcycle.