Rear Axel Lock
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Intermediate
Joined: Aug 2018
Posts: 42
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From: Alberta
Rear Axel Lock
Slowly going through everything on this 1985 FXWG I recently acquired and found that on the rear axle there was only a flat washer and a fine thread nut. looked at Ronnie's on line parts book and they show a lock-washer as well. The newer bikes have a castellated nut and a cotter-pin. Should I go with the lock washer or should I go for a Nylon Lock nut. I guess I could drill the axel and get a castellated nut and cotter pin. I appreciate you input. Thanks.
Last edited by dubepj; Jan 24, 2019 at 06:10 PM.
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From: Bedford UK
A thin flat washer is often used by raising an edge to flatten it against one flat of the nut - a messy business which eventually requires a new washer. By contrast a split pin, or C-clip on even later bikes, at least prevents the nut disappearing should it come loose. A nyloc nut sounds like a good option, as long as you keep tabs on it, should the locking feature get weak over time. A thick washer also sounds like a good idea!
Stellar HDF Member
Joined: Apr 2007
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I went to my Genuine HD 1985 FX Service Manual, and it shows flat washer/lock washer/nut. Does not show castle nut or cotter pin.
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From:
my 85 flhtc has a flat washer, lock washer and nut. stock original. never had a problem with it.
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My 85 FXR is another without a castellated nut & pin. Same set up already mentioned. Im Original owner.
lest anyone think its one of those why worry issues Let me share this. Riding I-95 between Washington D.C. and Richmond I pulled over to try to assist a single rider who was pulled off on the shoulder. Turns out his Bagger had lost its axle nut. He told me he pulled it over when the ride got squirrelly and found the axle coming out of the wheel.
It happens.
Got him back on the road, but thats another story.
lest anyone think its one of those why worry issues Let me share this. Riding I-95 between Washington D.C. and Richmond I pulled over to try to assist a single rider who was pulled off on the shoulder. Turns out his Bagger had lost its axle nut. He told me he pulled it over when the ride got squirrelly and found the axle coming out of the wheel.
It happens.
Got him back on the road, but thats another story.
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Thread Starter
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Intermediate
Joined: Aug 2018
Posts: 42
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From: Alberta
I just installed a lock washer as that what was on there is 1985. No hole in axle so no place for cotter pin. Cleaned the threads with brake clean and torque to 60 Ft. Lbs. Not overly worried but will keep an eye on it till i get a couple thousand miles . Thanks everyone for your input.