How to Remove a Harley Rear Wheel A Step-by-Step Guide

How to remove harley rear wheel – How to remove a Harley rear wheel sets the stage for a journey into the heart of motorcycle maintenance, offering a comprehensive guide that empowers riders to tackle this task with confidence. From understanding the importance of safety precautions to mastering the intricate steps involved, this guide will equip you with the knowledge and skills necessary to safely and efficiently remove your Harley’s rear wheel.

This process may seem daunting at first, but with a methodical approach and the right tools, it can be accomplished with ease. We’ll delve into the essential safety measures, gather the necessary tools, and break down the removal process into clear and concise steps. Whether you’re a seasoned mechanic or a novice rider, this guide will provide you with the knowledge and confidence to tackle this essential maintenance task.

Safety First

Working on your motorcycle requires a safety-first approach. This ensures your well-being and protects your motorcycle from potential damage. It’s important to prioritize safety before starting any work on your Harley.

Essential Precautions

Before you begin removing your Harley’s rear wheel, take the necessary safety precautions. These measures will help ensure a smooth and safe process.

Use a Motorcycle Lift or Jack: Always use a motorcycle lift or jack to raise your Harley for stability and safety. This allows you to work comfortably and prevents the motorcycle from falling, potentially causing injury or damage. Choose a lift or jack rated for the weight of your motorcycle and ensure it’s properly positioned and secured.
Wear Proper Safety Gear: Always wear protective gear while working on your motorcycle. This includes:
- Gloves: Wear sturdy work gloves to protect your hands from sharp edges and dirt. Choose gloves with good grip and dexterity.
- Eye Protection: Wear safety glasses or goggles to protect your eyes from flying debris or dust.
- Sturdy Footwear: Wear closed-toe shoes or boots with good grip to prevent slips and falls. Avoid wearing loose clothing that could get caught in moving parts.
Secure the Motorcycle: Once your motorcycle is raised, secure it properly. Use a wheel chock to prevent the front wheel from rolling. If you’re using a jack, ensure it’s stable and won’t shift. Consider using additional safety stands for added stability.

Tools and Materials

To successfully remove your Harley’s rear wheel, you’ll need a collection of tools and materials. Having the right equipment will make the process much smoother and safer.You’ll need a combination of basic tools and some specialized items, depending on your Harley model. Let’s break down the essential tools and materials you’ll need.

Essential Tools

Socket Wrench Set: A socket wrench set with various sizes is crucial for loosening and tightening nuts and bolts. You’ll need sockets that match the sizes of the axle nut, caliper bolts, and any other fasteners on your motorcycle.
Torque Wrench: A torque wrench is essential for tightening fasteners to the manufacturer’s specifications. This ensures proper tension and prevents damage to the wheel or axle.
Breaker Bar: A breaker bar provides extra leverage when loosening stubborn nuts, such as the axle nut.
Adjustable Wrench: An adjustable wrench is handy for gripping and turning various fasteners, especially if you don’t have the exact socket size.
Screwdriver Set: A screwdriver set with both Phillips and flathead screwdrivers is useful for removing any plastic covers or other components that may be in the way.
Pliers: Pliers can be helpful for gripping and manipulating small parts, such as cotter pins or brake caliper components.
Hammer: A rubber mallet or a hammer with a soft face is useful for gently tapping components loose.

Specialized Tools

Belt Tensioner Tool: Some Harley models, particularly those with belt-driven rear wheels, require a specialized belt tensioner tool. This tool helps release the belt tension, allowing you to remove the rear wheel.
Wheel Chock: A wheel chock is essential for securing the front wheel while you work on the rear wheel. This prevents the motorcycle from rolling and ensures your safety.
Motorcycle Jack: A motorcycle jack is highly recommended for lifting the rear wheel off the ground. This makes the removal process much easier and safer.

Lubricants

Penetrating Oil: Penetrating oil, like WD-40, is helpful for loosening rusted or stuck fasteners. Apply a small amount to the threads of the axle nut and let it sit for a few minutes before attempting to loosen it.
Grease: Apply a thin layer of grease to the threads of the axle nut and other fasteners during reassembly. This helps prevent corrosion and makes future removal easier.

Step-by-Step Removal Process: How To Remove Harley Rear Wheel

Now that you have gathered the necessary tools and materials, let’s get started with removing the rear wheel from your Harley. This process is relatively straightforward, but it’s crucial to follow each step carefully to avoid damage or injury.

Loosening the Axle Nut

Before you begin, ensure your motorcycle is securely supported on a center stand or paddock stand. This will ensure stability and prevent the motorcycle from falling while you work.

Locate the axle nut on the rear wheel. It’s usually a large nut with a castellated shape, allowing you to use a socket wrench with a pin to secure it.
Using a breaker bar and a socket that fits the axle nut, apply pressure to loosen the nut. It may be quite tight, so you might need to use a bit of force. If you’re using a breaker bar, make sure to keep your body weight off the tool to avoid any potential injuries.
Once the axle nut is loosened, remove it completely. It’s best to keep the axle nut and washer together to prevent losing them.

Removing the Brake Caliper and Rotor

In some cases, you might need to remove the brake caliper and rotor to gain access to the rear wheel. This is usually necessary if the wheel is being replaced or if the brake pads need to be inspected or replaced.

Before you begin, ensure the motorcycle is properly secured and the parking brake is engaged. This will prevent the motorcycle from rolling while you work on the brakes.
Locate the brake caliper mounting bolts. These are typically located on the top and bottom of the caliper.
Using a socket wrench and a suitable socket, loosen the caliper mounting bolts. Once they are loose, remove them completely.
Carefully lift the brake caliper away from the rotor. Be mindful of the brake lines, as they are still connected to the caliper.
To prevent brake fluid from leaking, it’s best to use a bung or a piece of cloth to cover the brake line fitting on the caliper. This will help to keep the system clean and prevent any potential contamination.
Once the caliper is removed, you can remove the rotor. The rotor is usually held in place by a single bolt in the center. Use a socket wrench and a suitable socket to loosen and remove the bolt.
Carefully remove the rotor from the wheel. If the rotor is being replaced, it’s a good idea to inspect it for any signs of wear or damage. You should also inspect the brake pads for wear and tear.
Once the rotor is removed, store it in a safe place to prevent damage or rusting. It’s best to wrap it in a clean cloth or use a protective bag to keep it clean and dry.

Removing the Rear Wheel

With the axle nut removed and the brake caliper and rotor removed (if necessary), you can now proceed to remove the rear wheel.

Carefully slide the wheel out of the swingarm. The wheel should come out easily once the axle nut is removed. Be careful not to drop the wheel, as it can be heavy.
If you’re working on a motorcycle with a belt drive, you’ll need to ensure that the belt is not caught on the wheel as you remove it. Gently move the belt out of the way as you pull the wheel out of the swingarm.
Once the wheel is removed, it’s important to handle it with care. Avoid dropping it or damaging the rim or tire. If you’re working on the wheel, it’s a good idea to use a wheel stand or a piece of wood to support it and prevent it from rolling.

Inspecting and Maintaining the Rear Wheel

Once you’ve removed the rear wheel, it’s time to give it a thorough inspection and perform some routine maintenance. This will help ensure your wheel is in good working order and that your ride remains safe and enjoyable.

Inspecting the Wheel

A visual inspection is the first step. Look for any signs of wear, damage, or corrosion. This includes checking the rim, spokes, hub, and brake rotor.

Rim: Inspect for dents, cracks, or any signs of warping. Look for signs of corrosion or pitting, which can weaken the rim.
Spokes: Check for broken or loose spokes. Inspect for signs of fatigue or corrosion, which can lead to spoke failure.
Hub: Inspect for any damage or corrosion on the hub. Look for signs of excessive wear on the bearings, which can cause noise and make the wheel feel rough.
Brake Rotor: Inspect for cracks, warping, or excessive wear on the brake rotor. Look for signs of scoring or pitting, which can affect braking performance.

Cleaning and Lubricating the Wheel Bearings

Keeping the wheel bearings clean and lubricated is crucial for smooth operation and longevity.

Cleaning: Remove the bearings from the hub. Clean them thoroughly using a degreaser and a brush. Rinse them with clean water and allow them to dry completely.
Lubricating: Once dry, apply a high-quality bearing grease to the bearings. Ensure that the grease is evenly distributed and that the bearings are properly packed.

Checking Tire Pressure and Tread Depth

Maintaining proper tire pressure and tread depth is essential for safe riding.

Tire Pressure: Check your tire pressure using a tire gauge. Ensure it matches the recommended pressure listed in your owner’s manual or on the tire sidewall. Under-inflated tires can lead to premature wear and increase the risk of a blowout. Over-inflated tires can make your ride harsh and uncomfortable.
Tread Depth: Use a tread depth gauge to check the remaining tread on your tires. The minimum legal tread depth varies by location, but most places require at least 2/32 of an inch. Worn tires can affect braking performance and increase the risk of aquaplaning.

Reinstallation and Final Adjustments

Now that you’ve successfully removed your Harley’s rear wheel, it’s time to put it all back together. This section will guide you through reinstalling the rear wheel, ensuring proper alignment and tightness, and addressing important final adjustments.

Reinstalling the Rear Wheel

Before reinstalling the rear wheel, make sure the brake rotor is clean and free of debris. Ensure the brake pads are properly seated in their calipers and that the brake caliper is properly mounted.

Align the rear wheel with the swingarm. The wheel should be centered in the swingarm and the axle should be properly aligned with the swingarm axle slots.
Install the axle. Slide the axle through the wheel and swingarm, ensuring the axle is fully seated in both sides.
Install the axle nut. Thread the axle nut onto the axle and tighten it hand-tight. Do not overtighten at this point.
Tighten the axle nut to the specified torque. Refer to your Harley Davidson service manual for the proper torque specifications for your specific model. Typically, this will be between 80-100 ft-lbs.
Check for alignment. Once the axle nut is torqued, visually inspect the rear wheel to ensure it is properly aligned with the swingarm. You should also check the wheel for any wobble or play.
Tighten the caliper mounting bolts. If your brake caliper was removed during the wheel removal process, make sure the caliper is properly mounted and the mounting bolts are tightened to the proper torque specification.

Checking for Leaks and Loose Components

After reassembly, it’s essential to check for any potential leaks or loose components to ensure the rear wheel is securely mounted and functioning properly.

Inspect for fluid leaks. Look for any signs of fluid leaking from the brake caliper, axle seals, or any other components near the rear wheel.
Check for loose components. Visually inspect all fasteners, including the axle nut, caliper mounting bolts, and any other bolts or nuts that were removed during the wheel removal process.
Test the brakes. After reassembly, always test the brakes to ensure they are working properly. Apply the brakes gently to ensure there is no dragging or binding.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

While removing the rear wheel is generally straightforward, you might encounter some challenges. This section addresses common issues and provides solutions to ensure a smooth process.

Seized Axle Nut

A stubborn axle nut is a common problem. If the nut is seized, it can be difficult to loosen.

Apply Penetrating Oil: Spray penetrating oil like WD-40 onto the axle nut and let it soak for several minutes. This will help loosen any rust or corrosion that may be preventing the nut from turning.
Use a Breaker Bar: If the nut is still stuck, use a breaker bar with a long handle to provide more leverage. Apply force slowly and gradually to avoid stripping the nut.
Heat Application: In extreme cases, you can carefully apply heat to the axle nut using a heat gun or torch. However, be cautious not to damage surrounding components.

Damaged Brake Components

If you encounter damaged brake components like worn brake pads or a cracked rotor, you’ll need to address them before reinstalling the wheel.

Inspect Brake Pads: Check the thickness of the brake pads. If they are worn below the minimum thickness, replace them with new pads.
Examine Rotor: Inspect the rotor for cracks, grooves, or excessive wear. If the rotor is damaged, it needs to be replaced.

Safety Hazards, How to remove harley rear wheel

During the rear wheel removal process, be aware of potential safety hazards:

Loose Components: Always ensure that the axle nut and other components are securely fastened before riding. A loose axle nut can lead to wheel detachment.
Damaged Brake System: If you encounter any problems with the brake system, such as a leaking caliper or worn pads, address them immediately. Riding with a compromised brake system is extremely dangerous.
Improper Tools: Using the wrong tools or applying excessive force can damage components. Always use the appropriate tools and follow the correct procedures.

Removing a Harley rear wheel is a fundamental skill that every rider should master. By following this guide, you’ll gain a deeper understanding of your motorcycle’s mechanics, enabling you to perform routine maintenance and troubleshoot common issues. Remember, safety is paramount, so always prioritize proper precautions and follow the steps meticulously. With practice and a little patience, you’ll become proficient at this task, ensuring your Harley runs smoothly and safely for many miles to come.