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Old Apr 17, 2020 | 10:24 PM
  #1  
Tonya Allen's Avatar
Tonya Allen
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Default Rear axle

I'm putting rear axle in is it ok to go left side in,and if so how do the spacers go ,I have adjuster, swingarm,long spacers,then short on right, brake caliper, swingarm, adjuster,thin spacer(washer)?,castle but cotter pin,,
does that sound right thanks for any imput
 
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Old Apr 17, 2020 | 10:27 PM
  #2  
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Tonya Allen
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Default Rear axle

I'm putting rear axle in is it ok to go left side in,and if so how do the spacers go ,I have adjuster, swingarm,long spacers,then short on right, brake caliper, swingarm, adjuster,thin spacer(washer)?,castle but cotter pin,,
does that sound right thanks for any imput
 
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Old Apr 17, 2020 | 10:29 PM
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Most bikes are configured differently.
 
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Old Apr 17, 2020 | 11:04 PM
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you can install it either way so it is easy for you to remove.
 
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Old Apr 18, 2020 | 06:38 AM
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as mentioned the axle can go in from either side ... the spacers between the swing arm stays the same no matter which direction the axle is inserted ... if you move the spacers around you change the position of the wheel ... you want to maintain alignment of the wheel so the belt and rotor stays in line ...
 
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Old Apr 18, 2020 | 07:00 AM
  #6  
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Originally Posted by Tonya Allen
I'm putting rear axle in is it ok to go left side in,and if so how do the spacers go ,I have adjuster, swingarm,long spacers,then short on right, brake caliper, swingarm, adjuster,thin spacer(washer)?,castle but cotter pin,,
does that sound right thanks for any imput
First off; before you ever take anything apart take notes and pictures so you have information when you go to put everything back together.

Second; if your going to do your own work you need to start with the right tools.
The first tool you need is a service manual.

Yes a service manual is a bit expensive but look at it as an investment rather than an expense.
The service manual gives you the reference and instructions needed to do the work yourself thus saving you money and giving you personal satisfaction.


You didn't state what year or model you have so that's probably needed as some years and models differ from others.
You also didn't state why you want to swap the direction of the axle but that really doesn't matter as it pertains to answering your question.

It doesn't matter which direction the axle is installed.
Matter of fact on my 2009 Heritage the axle swap is required in order to install hard bags.

On my 2009 Heritage (with the axle installed entering from the left) as you are standing behind the bike from left to right;
"axle, swing arm, large spacer, rim, medium spacer, brake bracket, small spacer, swing arm, washer, nut, e-clip"
 

Last edited by Bluraven; Apr 18, 2020 at 07:11 AM.
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Old Apr 18, 2020 | 07:14 AM
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Originally Posted by Tonya Allen
I'm putting rear axle in is it ok to go left side in,and if so how do the spacers go ,I have adjuster, swingarm,long spacers,then short on right, brake caliper, swingarm, adjuster,thin spacer(washer)?,castle but cotter pin,,
does that sound right thanks for any imput
First off; before you ever take anything apart take notes and pictures so you have information when you go to put everything back together.

Second; if your going to do your own work you need to start with the right tools.
The first tool you need is a service manual.

Yes a service manual is a bit expensive but look at it as an investment rather than an expense.
The service manual gives you the reference and instructions needed to do the work yourself thus saving you money and giving you personal satisfaction.


You didn't state what year or model you have so that's probably needed as some years and models differ from others.
You also didn't state why you want to swap the direction of the axle but that really doesn't matter as it pertains to answering your question.

It doesn't matter which direction the axle is installed.
Matter of fact on my 2009 Heritage the axle swap is required in order to install hard bags.

On my 2009 Heritage (with the axle installed entering from the left) as you are standing behind the bike from left to right;
"axle, swing arm, large spacer, rim, medium spacer, brake bracket, small spacer, swing arm, washer, nut, e-clip"
 
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Old Apr 18, 2020 | 07:38 AM
  #8  
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I switched mine on my old Softail. Now the exhaust does not need to come off to get axle out. Do need a adapter wrench to correctly torque nut since my torque wrench will not slide in the narrow space. No biggie.

Forget the name but I will post a picture if you need that.
I cannot envision why switching axle would affect spacers. Don't get them mixed up. Some even have a slight bevel in hole or on OD edge that goes a certain direction.

And torque axle nut with a torque wrench. You are working on something that can get you worst then dead.
 

Last edited by Jackie Paper; Apr 18, 2020 at 07:46 AM.
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Old Apr 18, 2020 | 10:13 AM
  #9  
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Model and year is what we need to know to help you.

In the future, keep track of your parts, it`s easy once you develop the habit.

Put your parts in ziplock or manila bags or envelopes, mark the bags clearly.

Back to you....
 
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