How Hard To Replace Rear Brake Shoes On A Softail?
#1
05-23-2012, 08:05 PM
How Hard To Replace Rear Brake Shoes On A Softail?
My '03 FXST's rear brake pads are down to the metal. Sac Harley wants @ $125 to replace them. Pads cost $55. Is this a job that can be done at home by the average guy with no special tools?
#2
05-23-2012, 08:26 PM
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Do you have a service manual? That would be the place to start and @$50 it is a worthwhile investment. After looking at it, you can then gauge whether you can do it yourself. 
Last edited by springer 03; 05-24-2012 at 12:22 PM.
#3
05-23-2012, 08:51 PM
I just did mine and all you need to do is remove the two pad pins and the pads come right out. Put the new ones in and tighten up pins. Removal of rear wheel isn't needed. And if by some chance you can't get the pads out or back in, all you do is take the axle nut loose and push the axle in far enough to free the caliper. The front is even easier. Just remove pins , remove pads and put the new pads in. Clean with brake cleaner and pump the brakes till firm.
#5
05-23-2012, 09:07 PM
Do you have a service manual? That would be the place to start and @$50 it is a worthwhile investment. After looking at it, you can then gauge whether you can do it yourself. The rear caliper on a stock softail involves removing the rear wheel and after that it is very straightforward.
And nice choice in bikes there, springer 03!
#6
05-23-2012, 09:14 PM
Big Kahuna HDF Member
I just did mine and all you need to do is remove the two pad pins and the pads come right out. Put the new ones in and tighten up pins. Removal of rear wheel isn't needed. And if by some chance you can't get the pads out or back in, all you do is take the axle nut loose and push the axle in far enough to free the caliper. The front is even easier. Just remove pins , remove pads and put the new pads in. Clean with brake cleaner and pump the brakes till firm.
#7
05-23-2012, 11:16 PM
Ultimate HDF Member
If you are able to change your own oil then you will not have a problem doing the pads. If you can't figure out how to put the transmission drain plug back in then you might have trouble.
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#8
05-23-2012, 11:20 PM
Club Member
Take a good look at them I suspect you can handle it just fine , PM me if decide to tackle it and I'll shoot you my cell # for guidance if you need it but it's very straight forward .
#9
05-23-2012, 11:20 PM
Banned
Do you have a service manual? That would be the place to start and @$50 it is a worthwhile investment. After looking at it, you can then gauge whether you can do it yourself. The rear caliper on a stock softail involves removing the rear wheel and after that it is very straightforward.
