Steering Head Bearings
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Grand HDF Member
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From: Ohio
Steering Head Bearings
My 2007 FXD feels a little "stiff" when I turn the handlebars while just sitting still. There's a notchy, crunchy sound like the bearings may be dry. I don't see a grease fitting on my frame neck. Is this a common problem? How can I grease the bearings, or is this a more serious problem? Thanks!
Outstanding HDF Member
Joined: Aug 2009
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From: Republic of Texas
There is no grease fitting. You will need to pull the front end off and check them out. If they look good then repack them with grease. If you have any doubts then just install new ones.
Intermediate
Joined: Sep 2009
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From: Currently Pullman, WA
Definately need to take it apart and see what is up. It's not like some of the sportys with a zirc in the neck you can squirt grease in; actually have to disassemble to service. Not too hard to pull apart though.
Someone will most likely know better than me, but I think there was an update related to neck bearing torque because of clunking, not sure if lack of grease or premature bearing failure was a problem as well.
Someone will most likely know better than me, but I think there was an update related to neck bearing torque because of clunking, not sure if lack of grease or premature bearing failure was a problem as well.
Road Warrior
Joined: Apr 2008
Posts: 1,998
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From: Central Ohio
My 2007 FXD feels a little "stiff" when I turn the handlebars while just sitting still. There's a notchy, crunchy sound like the bearings may be dry. I don't see a grease fitting on my frame neck. Is this a common problem? How can I grease the bearings, or is this a more serious problem? Thanks!
Definately need to take it apart and see what is up. It's not like some of the sportys with a zirc in the neck you can squirt grease in; actually have to disassemble to service. Not too hard to pull apart though.
Someone will most likely know better than me, but I think there was an update related to neck bearing torque because of clunking, not sure if lack of grease or premature bearing failure was a problem as well.
Someone will most likely know better than me, but I think there was an update related to neck bearing torque because of clunking, not sure if lack of grease or premature bearing failure was a problem as well.
Get some new bearings AND the up-graded special hardened washer then tear it down & rebuild it.
You can do some reading @ 'front end clunk' at:
https://www.hdforums.com/forum/dyna-...d-problem.html
https://www.hdforums.com/forum/dyna-...-m-1215-a.html
https://www.hdforums.com/forum/dyna-...ck-torque.html
https://www.hdforums.com/forum/dyna-...-bearings.html
https://www.hdforums.com/forum/dyna-...nd-clanks.html
Last edited by 08fxdf43202; May 9, 2010 at 06:35 AM.
Road Master
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From: Grapevine Texas
My 2007 FXD feels a little "stiff" when I turn the handlebars while just sitting still. There's a notchy, crunchy sound like the bearings may be dry. I don't see a grease fitting on my frame neck. Is this a common problem? How can I grease the bearings, or is this a more serious problem? Thanks!
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Grand HDF Member
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From: Ohio
Update:
Well, I feel like a real idiot, although a happy one! I went to my dealer to get the bearings for my bike. I mentioned what my problem was and he had his mechanic come out and take a look at it before he ordered the parts for me. The guy spent about 30 minutes with my bike, did the flop test, etc., and discovered my REAL problem................my handlebars were loose!!
What a dumba** I am! He tightened them, and all is well. Didn't charge me a thing either! He's got my business from now on!
Well, I feel like a real idiot, although a happy one! I went to my dealer to get the bearings for my bike. I mentioned what my problem was and he had his mechanic come out and take a look at it before he ordered the parts for me. The guy spent about 30 minutes with my bike, did the flop test, etc., and discovered my REAL problem................my handlebars were loose!!
What a dumba** I am! He tightened them, and all is well. Didn't charge me a thing either! He's got my business from now on!