2001 FXDP. I rebuilt all the calipers. For the rear, that requires removing the rear axle/wheel. My question is, would there be any issue with installing the axle left to right instead of right to left. The service manual says to install it from the right side, but if I install it from the left side, I can remove the rear caliper in the future by just punching the axle slightly through instead of removing the entire thing. Just wondering if there would be an issue with this. I don't really see what harm it would cause but thought I'd see if anyone has any input. Ultimately, I'd like to upgrade to the newer style (I think 2006 and up) that is 2 pieces, so it alleviates removing the axle at all. Any input on the possibility of that would be appreciated too. Hopefully my wording makes sense...

 

Go ahead turn the axle around.

As far as changing to the two piece caliper ... how many times do you plan on rebuilding the caliper? You can change the 2001 pads without removing the caliper.

It's 08-later for the two piece. You'll have to Bush down the bracket for your 3/4" axle (from 25mm), see how the bracket mates up with swingarm, and figure out any needed spacer width changes.


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FWIW;
Many have swapped the axle to get away from exhaust removal when changing tires.

 

Oh...I didn't realize I could change the pads without removing the caliper. That was my concern. Gonna have to research that.

 

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Here you go ...