need to replace my front tire

MattyD · #1 02-05-2005, 12:58 AM

I just got a 2002FXD and would like to do my own maintenance. I bought a Clymer Maintenance Manual and plan to get a motor cycle jack/stand. I never worked on bikes before but I've done a lot of car tuneups and other mechanical type of stuff. My front tire needs to be replaced. I'd like to pull the front wheel myself and send it to the dealer (partly to learn about the bike, and partly to save a few bucks). According to the manual, it looks pretty straight forward but I don't know if I should take a chance. Any advice??

pococj · #2 02-05-2005, 02:40 AM

If you've done tune ups on cars and other stuff,go for it. It's pretty easy, especially with the manual. Do yourself a favor and buy the factory service manual, too. I always get a couple different ones as there are often differences in how they do things that help.

billnourse · #3 02-05-2005, 11:46 AM

I agree with pococj, get the factory service manual. I don't know about the 2002's as I have never changed a tire on one. Do they have the sealed bearings, or the old style bearings. If they are the old style, you will need some shims and a good dial indicator to insure that you get the correct end play in the axle. You will also need a torque wrench. Sears Craftsman makes a pretty good one that is not too pricey.

A jackstand is almost a must. I use mine for oil changes, tire replacements, washing, and any other maintainance I do.

There is nothing hard about any of this if you have any mechanical ability at all, and it is well covered in the HD service manual.

Doing the maintainance that you are capable of and comfortable with only adds to the overall experience of Harley ownership. The more you know about your bike, the more personal and intimate the relationship becomes.

Regards,

Bill

MattyD · #4 02-07-2005, 11:27 PM

Thanks Guys. I took your advice and ordered the Harley Manual -- it should be here within a week. I checked the bearings and the 2002's are sealed, so that should make it easier for me. I still need buy torque wrench and Jack stand but I'm not in any rush though, since there's still about 2 feet of snow outside.