I just blew out my rear wheel bearings on my 2015 FXDL for the second time. I have 33,000 mi on the bike. I just replaced them about 1000 mi ago. Trying to figure out why the failed again so soon? Bad install or could this happen from mounting the wheel out of alignment a little bit? The tire has about 4000 mi on it and its wearing even. Thanks.

 

Probably bad install. Are you using the right tool and following the service manual??

 

Maybe the belt was adjusted too tight.
Harley bearings are junk.

 

I didnt not install the bearings my mechanic did. I did reinstall the wheel though after the bearing were first changed. A tight belt would burn out the bearings? The first set of bearings lasted 30,000 mi. Im just looking for a possible cause. Thank you for the feedback.

 

What bearings is he replacing them with? Harleys? If so that maybe your problem. Some Harley bearings will last 50,000 or 70,000 miles , some won't last 10,000. I don't think that there bearings are of poor quality but I do know the grease they use is of unknown origin and a lot of the bearings have very little of it. So your next move is to ask what he is using. If they are Harley try something else from all-***** , drag specialties etc. In most cases after market bearings will be cheaper. It is possible that he is installing them wrong, like with a hammer and a punch. If he is doing it with a hammer find some body that has the proper tool for the job. Aluminum hubs can and will get damaged with improper wheel bearing install.

 

He is not using HD bearings, but he hasnt had any problems with these bearings on any other bikes. I dont know the exact brand they are. He is a friend with a very busy shop. Im not worried about his work, maybe I just got a bad set of bearings this go around. Will post the brand when I find out, thanks again.