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I am setting up a new SMT front rim for my 1999 FXSTC...
I got the tire mounted and a new rotor installed - I move to install the new rim on the bike and I find that the original spacers for the stock rim are too short.
Basically, the hub on the new rim is narrower than the stock, spoked rim.
This is an unanticipated challenge and SMT is researching what I specifically need to get this bike back on the road.
While waiting on their guidance, I've ordered a variety of axle spacers and shims hoping to get lucky. Ideally, I guess I need a large-throat caliper to measure the actual difference between the two hubs. Then it's just math.
Open to any experienced advice and direction - thanks!
I have calipers with a 'tail' to be used as depth caliper. Maybe you can use something like that going through the axle holes in the bearings?
Totally understand what you're saying here, but I have not come across this type of tool. If you can share any details on what you have, I can hunt it down.
I have looked at some large calipers, but I can't clear the wheel to get them in position.
Originally Posted by eighteight
Clamp a straight edge to each flange, then measure between them with regular calipers
Thanks, but I don't understand this. The bearing edges are recessed within the hub.
My "worst case scenario" has me using a narrow rule through the bearings and hub - it won't be nearly as precise but should get me close enough to calculate an approximate measurement for the spacers. I could stack multiple spacers and/or shims and washers to get where I need to be.
Once I know I have proper spacing and alignment, I could use a standard caliper to measure the overall required size for each spacer and hunt them down.
On another note, I was told by SMT that the rim should be a direct-fit / easy swap for a 2000 Softail standard. I still awaiting their detailed confirmation. In the meantime I am researching the front-end and axle components from the 2000 model. This may be as simple as finding the 2000 model spacers.
Totally understand what you're saying here, but I have not come across this type of tool. If you can share any details on what you have, I can hunt it down.
To measure the width of the hubs, or the width of installed bearings etc,
Use a depth vernier and parallel bars, or a couple of nice flat pieces of metal you trust as being flat.
Lay the hub on one flat piece of metal.
Lay the second piece of metal on the hub.
Using the depth vernier, measure the distance from the top of the bar down to the surface of the second bar (that the hub is laying on).
Subtract the thickness of the top metal plate.
You have the width of the hub.
If you are looking for the width of the installed outer races, there is more to it but still very easy.
Depth vernier and parallel bar.
Lay bar on work surface, lay hub on the parallel bar.
Lay another bar on top of hub.
Measure from top surface of upper bar to the top surface of the lower parallel bar.
Thanks for this Dan!
I actually need the width of the bearings / races. Using what you've demonstrated gives me the overall hub width. I can then measure and subtract the depth to the bearings.
I actually need the width of the bearings / races. Using what you've demonstrated gives me the overall hub width. I can then measure and subtract the depth to the bearings.
I suspect that you have a ball bearing wheel and you are trying to fit a timken wheel setup. What I'd do is assemble the wheel without spacers to the front end, center the travel on the caliper with disc. Make sure the tire is reasonably centered in the forks. Measure the left side clearance between bearing and fork then get a spacer closest to what you measured. The right side spacer can be about any size that allows the straight part of the axle to clamp in the right fork leg.
I suspect that you have a ball bearing wheel and you are trying to fit a timken wheel setup. What I'd do is assemble the wheel without spacers to the front end, center the travel on the caliper with disc. Make sure the tire is reasonably centered in the forks. Measure the left side clearance between bearing and fork then get a spacer closest to what you measured. The right side spacer can be about any size that allows the straight part of the axle to clamp in the right fork leg.
PVC pipe makes good temporary spacers for this type of thing.
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Wheel Spacer Help...
