Front axle cap.
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Cruiser
Joined: Oct 2015
Posts: 126
Likes: 4
From: Macedonia ohio
Front axle cap.
I removed the front tire today for replacement. It's my first time working on a bike. Got the service book as well. I removed the axle nut and washer and went to loosen the 2 screws holding the cap on the other side and noticed that once I loosened the front one, the back one was loose and I screwed it out by hand. With me me loosening one would the other get loose at all. Bike was 100% stock before I got it and nothing was removed or change that I know of. Does the cap make a complete seal to the fork like a main cap would in an engine?
08 fxdl
08 fxdl
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Cruiser
Joined: Oct 2015
Posts: 126
Likes: 4
From: Macedonia ohio
I think I found what I was looking for, but if the rear got loose with the front bolt undone, that means the gap was in the back but my 08 book says the gap should have been in front. In doing a search I see conflicting thoughts on which side the gap should be. Is there a definitive answer?
Outstanding HDF Member
Joined: Nov 2009
Posts: 2,960
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From: Sonoma County, CA
The manual I have for my 2010 FXDF says that gap should be at the back. Ironically, when they show the graphic, they specifically have a callout noting a gap at the front. Don't be fooled by the graphic. When properly adjusted, the gap belongs at the rear.
See thumbnails attached.
See thumbnails attached.
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Cruiser
Joined: Oct 2015
Posts: 126
Likes: 4
From: Macedonia ohio
Sorry to bring this back up but I hope this helps others. I installed it opposite what the book says and what I had when I removed it. Drove no problem but we went to the dealer today to look around and All the new bikes have the air gap in front with bolt showing and solid mount in the back. I asked the service guy and he said they switched it in 10-12 to keep the airgap in the back he thinks and now it's back to having the air gap in front. Something about safety now he said and all the bikes that come in they set it up with the air gap up front. So I came home and switched it lol.
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Outstanding HDF Member
Joined: Nov 2009
Posts: 2,960
Likes: 26
From: Sonoma County, CA
That is odd. If I think about it, I'll check it next time I'm at my local dealer and see what they say.
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Joined: Sep 2008
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From: Northwest
For mechanical fastening, I seriously doubt it matters where the gap is, front or back. But if you think about having the gap in front, and all the wet and road grime that would pack in there.... and then probably start corrosion... could weaken the bolt, unless you put some nice stainless in there... even then... yeah, gap in back... IMO.
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