The Ultimate Guide to Harley Davidson Wheel Bearing Pullers: A Step-by-Step Approach

Harley Davidson motorcycles are renowned for their iconic style, powerful engines, and unwavering performance. However, like any mechanical device, these bikes require regular maintenance to keep them running smoothly. One crucial aspect of Harley Davidson maintenance is replacing the wheel bearings, which are responsible for ensuring the proper rotation of the wheels. To perform this task effectively, you'll need a specialized tool known as a Harley Davidson wheel bearing puller.

What is a Harley Davidson Wheel Bearing Puller?

A Harley Davidson wheel bearing puller is a tool designed specifically to remove the wheel bearings from Harley Davidson motorcycles. These pullers are typically made of durable materials such as steel or aluminum and feature a threaded shaft with a tapered end. The tapered end fits into the bearing's inner race, while the threaded shaft is used to apply force and extract the bearing from the hub.

Types of Harley Davidson Wheel Bearing Pullers

There are various types of Harley Davidson wheel bearing pullers available, each designed to suit different models and years of motorcycles. Some of the most common types include:

• Inner Race Pullers: These pullers are designed to remove the inner race of the bearing, which is typically pressed into the hub. The tapered end of the puller fits into the inner race, and the threaded shaft is used to apply force and extract the race.
• Outer Race Pullers: These pullers are designed to remove the outer race of the bearing, which is typically pressed into the wheel. The tapered end of the puller fits into the outer race, and the threaded shaft is used to apply force and extract the race.
• Complete Bearing Pullers: These pullers are designed to remove both the inner and outer races of the bearing simultaneously. They typically feature a tapered end that fits into the inner race and a threaded shaft that applies force to both races.

How to Choose the Right Harley Davidson Wheel Bearing Puller

Choosing the right Harley Davidson wheel bearing puller is crucial for ensuring successful bearing removal. Factors to consider when selecting a puller include:

• Motorcycle Model and Year: Different Harley Davidson models have different wheel sizes and bearing designs. Choose a puller that is specifically designed for your bike's make, model, and year.
• Bearing Size: Wheel bearings come in various sizes. Ensure that the puller you choose has a tapered end that fits the inner race of the bearing you need to remove.
• Quality and Durability: Invest in a high-quality puller made from durable materials that can withstand the force required to remove bearings.

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

Before using a Harley Davidson wheel bearing puller, gather the necessary tools and materials, including a hammer, punch, and lubricant.

Step 1: Prepare the Wheel

• Remove the wheel from the motorcycle.
• Use a hammer and punch to drive out the axle.
• Slide the wheel off the axle.

Step 2: Remove the Inner Race

• Select the appropriate inner race puller and insert the tapered end into the inner race of the bearing.
• Thread the puller onto the axle and tighten it until the tapered end is firmly seated in the inner race.
• Use a hammer to tap on the end of the puller until the inner race is dislodged from the hub.

Step 3: Remove the Outer Race

• Select the appropriate outer race puller and insert the tapered end into the outer race of the bearing.
• Thread the puller onto the axle and tighten it until the tapered end is firmly seated in the outer race.
• Use a hammer to tap on the end of the puller until the outer race is dislodged from the wheel.

Step 4: Inspect and Clean

• Once the bearings are removed, inspect the hub and wheel for any damage or wear.
• Clean the hub and wheel thoroughly using a degreaser and a brush.

Step 5: Install New Bearings

• Apply a small amount of lubricant to the new bearings.
• Use a hammer and punch to drive the new bearings into the hub and wheel.
• Reassemble the wheel and install it on the motorcycle.

Tips for Using a Harley Davidson Wheel Bearing Puller

• Use a lubricant to reduce friction and make bearing removal easier.
• Apply force gradually and evenly to avoid damaging the bearings or puller.
• If the bearing is stuck, tap lightly on the end of the puller with a hammer to loosen it.
• Never use excessive force when removing bearings.
• If you encounter any difficulties during the process, consult a professional mechanic.

Table 1: Harley Davidson Wheel Bearing Puller Specifications

*These pullers also fit some Buell models.

Table 2: Signs of Worn Harley Davidson Wheel Bearings

Table 3: Benefits of Using a Harley Davidson Wheel Bearing Puller

Effective Strategies for Maintaining Harley Davidson Wheel Bearings

• Inspect bearings regularly for signs of wear and damage.
• Clean and lubricate bearings as recommended by the manufacturer.
• Avoid riding in harsh or dusty conditions.
• Have bearings professionally replaced if necessary.

Humorous Stories and Life Lessons

Story 1:

A Harley Davidson rider named Dave was having trouble with his wheel bearings. He decided to remove them himself, but he accidentally used a puller that was too large for the bearings. As he tightened the puller, the bearings shattered into a million pieces. Dave learned the importance of choosing the right tools for the job.

Lesson: Always consult the manufacturer's specifications before using any tools on your motorcycle.

Story 2:

A rider named Mark was on a long road trip when he realized that his wheel bearings were starting to wear out. He stopped at a small town motorcycle shop and asked the mechanic to replace them. The mechanic looked at the bearings and said, "These bearings are fine. You don't need to replace them yet." Mark decided to listen to the mechanic and continued his trip. A few hours later, one of the bearings failed, causing his motorcycle to crash. Mark learned the importance of trusting his instincts and replacing bearings when they show signs of wear.

Lesson: Don't ignore signs of bearing wear. Replace them promptly to avoid costly accidents.

Story 3:

A group of Harley riders were riding through the mountains when one of the riders crashed. The other riders stopped to help him, but they couldn't figure out what caused the crash. They checked the bike, but everything seemed fine. Finally, one of the riders noticed that the crash victim had been using a puller to remove his wheel bearings. The puller was too small for the bearings, and it caused the bearings to fail. The riders learned the importance of using the correct tools for the job and always following the manufacturer's instructions.

Lesson: Always follow the manufacturer's instructions and use the correct tools when working on your motorcycle.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Using the wrong type of puller for the bearings.
• Applying excessive force when removing bearings.
• Damaging the bearings or puller by using improper techniques.
• Neglecting to lubricate bearings before installing them.
• Ignoring signs of bearing wear and damage.

Call to Action

If you need to replace the wheel bearings on your Harley Davidson motorcycle, invest in a high-quality Harley Davidson wheel bearing puller. By following the step-by-step guide and tips provided in this article, you can safely and efficiently remove and replace your bearings, ensuring smooth and reliable performance from your motorcycle.