The Ultimate Guide to Harley Davidson Wheel Bearing Puller

Introduction

Harley-Davidson motorcycles are renowned for their iconic style and powerful performance. However, even the most well-maintained Harley can experience mechanical issues from time to time, including worn or damaged wheel bearings. Replacing these bearings requires specialized tools, including a high-quality Harley Davidson wheel bearing puller. This comprehensive guide will provide you with all the information you need to select, use, and maintain a Harley Davidson wheel bearing puller effectively.

Types of Harley Davidson Wheel Bearing Pullers

There are two main types of Harley Davidson wheel bearing pullers:

1. Mechanical Pullers

• Pros:
• Durable and reliable
• Can apply high force
• Cons:
• Bulky and heavy
• Requires manual force

2. Hydraulic Pullers

• Pros:
• Easy to use
• Can generate high force with minimal effort
• Cons:
• More expensive than mechanical pullers
• Requires a hydraulic pump

How to Choose the Right Harley Davidson Wheel Bearing Puller

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

• Type of motorcycle: Different Harley models may require specific bearing pullers.
• Bearing size: The size of the bearing will determine the size of the puller required.
• Force required: The force needed to remove the bearing will vary depending on its condition and location.
• Budget: Mechanical pullers are typically more affordable than hydraulic pullers.

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

1. Safety First:

• Wear safety glasses and gloves.
• Ensure the motorcycle is parked on a stable surface and the parking brake is engaged.

2. Remove the Wheel:

• Loosen the axle nut and remove the wheel from the motorcycle.

3. Position the Puller:

• Choose the appropriate puller jaws for the bearing size.
• Place the jaws securely around the bearing.

4. Apply Pressure:

• If using a mechanical puller, tighten the adjustment screw to apply force.
• If using a hydraulic puller, attach the hydraulic pump and apply pressure.

5. Remove the Bearing:

• Gradually increase the force until the bearing pops loose.
• Carefully remove the bearing from the wheel.

6. Inspect the Bearing:

• Check the bearing for signs of wear, damage, or contamination.
• If the bearing is damaged, it should be replaced.

Maintenance of Harley Davidson Wheel Bearing Pullers

To ensure optimal performance and longevity of your wheel bearing puller, follow these maintenance tips:

• Clean: Regularly wipe down the puller to remove dirt and debris.
• Lubricate: Apply a thin layer of grease to the puller jaws and threads.
• Inspect: Periodically check the puller for any signs of damage or wear.
• Store: Store the puller in a dry, temperature-controlled environment.

Troubleshooting Common Problems

If you encounter any issues while using a Harley Davidson wheel bearing puller, try the following troubleshooting tips:

• Bearing is not loose:
• Increase the force using the puller.
• Inspect the puller jaws for proper alignment.
• Puller is damaged:
• Stop using the puller immediately.
• Contact a qualified mechanic to repair or replace the puller.
• Hydraulic pump is not working:
• Check the hydraulic fluid level and top up if necessary.
• Inspect the pump for any leaks or damage.

Effective Strategies for Removing Harley Davidson Wheel Bearings

• Use the correct puller: Choose a puller that is specifically designed for the type of motorcycle and bearing size.
• Apply even force: Gradually increase the force on the puller to avoid damaging the bearing or the surrounding components.
• Support the wheel: Properly support the wheel during the removal process to prevent it from shifting or falling.
• Lubricate the bearing: Apply a small amount of lubricant to the bearing surface to reduce friction and make removal easier.
• Inspect the bearing: After removing the bearing, inspect it carefully for any signs of wear, damage, or contamination.

Humorous Stories and Lessons Learned

Story 1: The Misaligned Puller

Once upon a time, a mechanic was struggling to remove a wheel bearing from a Harley Davidson. He had the right puller, but he failed to align the jaws properly. As he applied force, the puller slipped and damaged the bearing race. Lesson learned: Always check the alignment of the puller jaws before applying force.

Story 2: The Overzealous Puller

Another mechanic got so excited about removing a wheel bearing that he used a sledgehammer to strike the puller. The bearing was removed successfully, but the puller was completely destroyed. Lesson learned: Use the appropriate force when using a wheel bearing puller.

Story 3: The Missing Bearing

A novice mechanic was removing a wheel bearing from a Harley Davidson when he accidentally dropped the bearing into the depths of the engine. After hours of searching, the bearing was finally found, embedded in a pool of oil. Lesson learned: Always wear safety glasses and gloves when working on motorcycles.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Improper puller selection: Using the wrong type or size of puller can damage the bearing or the puller itself.
• Excessive force: Applying too much force can damage the bearing or the surrounding components.
• Misalignment: Incorrect alignment of the puller jaws can lead to damage or slippage.
• Lack of lubrication: Neglecting to lubricate the bearing can increase friction and make removal difficult.
• Neglecting inspection: Failing to inspect the bearing after removal can lead to undetected damage and potential safety issues.

Conclusion

Choosing and using the right Harley Davidson wheel bearing puller is essential for safely and effectively replacing worn or damaged wheel bearings. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can ensure that your Harley Davidson motorcycle is back on the road in no time. Remember to prioritize safety, select the appropriate puller, apply the correct force, and perform regular maintenance on your puller for optimal performance and longevity.