Ids 2007
Outstanding HDF Member
Joined: Mar 2008
Posts: 3,471
Likes: 5
From: Ocala, FL
i had mine done at the dealer right after I got the bike. I now have 51,000 and no problems with the bearing. I am getting ready to change the rear tire and will probably go ahead and change it out for peace of mind.
Seasoned HDF Member
Joined: Oct 2006
Posts: 5,977
Likes: 85
From: Nevada
I'm not sure how you check them while the wheel is on the bike, except to listen for noise and watch for a loose pulley. If the bearing is disintegrating I would think the pulley would begin to lose its solidity against the wheel and swingarm. Can anyone substantiate this or otherwise advise on routinely checking the bearing?
Here's a Service Bulletin on checking the IDS.
http://www.box.net/shared/gy9vp8hdgq
Ultimate HDF Member
Joined: Apr 2006
Posts: 7,498
Likes: 19
From: East Alton, IL
Road Warrior
Joined: Jun 2008
Posts: 1,602
Likes: 3
From: Southeastern Michigan
I'm starting to think, the bearings longevity relies solely on if the bearing is aligned perfectly in the rear pulleys bore (horizontally) with the damper cup.
Here's my deduction. If "ANY" side load is introduced after assembly, ie. the pulley is forced into the damper cup and side pressure is exerted on the bearings, it wouldn't take long for any bearing to self destruct!
Like wise, if the bearings placement puts the pulley too far from the cup, it could introduce axial loads on the bearing, putting too much opposing stress on the double row bearings races. Again the bearing would be toast in a short time.
In both scenerio's the bearing quality wouldn't matter.
I think that's why most DIY's tend to go early, with most owners just pressing the bearing in until it's stopped against the bores edge. While HD's tool probably has a depth gauge.
In fact - that's probably why there were so many early failures. HD had to find "optimal" placement of the bearing. Especially considering all the manufacturing stack-up variances.
So bottom line - if you're a DIY'er it's absolutely mandatory to get the specs right. Whatever they are? And, if you have someone do it, make sure they know what they're doing!
Of course - just a guess.....
Here's my deduction. If "ANY" side load is introduced after assembly, ie. the pulley is forced into the damper cup and side pressure is exerted on the bearings, it wouldn't take long for any bearing to self destruct!
Like wise, if the bearings placement puts the pulley too far from the cup, it could introduce axial loads on the bearing, putting too much opposing stress on the double row bearings races. Again the bearing would be toast in a short time.
In both scenerio's the bearing quality wouldn't matter.
I think that's why most DIY's tend to go early, with most owners just pressing the bearing in until it's stopped against the bores edge. While HD's tool probably has a depth gauge.
In fact - that's probably why there were so many early failures. HD had to find "optimal" placement of the bearing. Especially considering all the manufacturing stack-up variances.
So bottom line - if you're a DIY'er it's absolutely mandatory to get the specs right. Whatever they are? And, if you have someone do it, make sure they know what they're doing!
Of course - just a guess.....
6th Gear
Joined: Sep 2009
Posts: 11
Likes: 0
From: Kentucky
Actually I have seen this same problem on several 2008 models and they are Factory installed.
It's not just a problem for the 2007 bikes that have it added as an option. Nor is it a DIY or dealer installed problem.
It's not just a problem for the 2007 bikes that have it added as an option. Nor is it a DIY or dealer installed problem.
Club Member
Joined: Oct 2006
Posts: 1,582
Likes: 72
From: North East
Any specifics regarding "new and improved."
HD Forum Stories
The Best of Harley-Davidson for Lifelong Riders
7 Surprising Harley-Davidson Products that Are Not Motorcycles
Verdad Gallardo
8 Best Harley-Davidson Motorcycles Ever
Pouria Savadkouei
10 Worst Harley-Davidson Motorcycles Ever
Pouria Savadkouei
Killer Custom's Jail Break Is The Breakout That Refused to Blend In
Verdad Gallardo
Crazy Bunderbike Build Looks Amazing, But Is It Impossible to Ride?
Verdad Gallardo
Harley-Davidson Reveals Super Cool Cafe Racer Concept
Verdad Gallardo
Engraved Rebellion: Inside Bundnerbike's Glam Rock II
Verdad Gallardo
10 Motorcycles You Should Never Buy
Joe Kucinski
10 Things Harley-Davidson Needs to Fix in 2026
Verdad Gallardo
Extreme HDF Member
Joined: Sep 2005
Posts: 11,615
Likes: 50
From: Baton Rouge, LA
The part number is the same, so if the bearing changed the number didn't, which isn't the usual HD procedure. When they change a part they at least put an alpha suffix (e.g. "A") on the old number.
That said, does anyone know how much the removal/installer tool (#48921) costs? If not too expensive I might consider buying one, then buy a $90 6-ton Harbor-Freight hydraulic press.
That said, does anyone know how much the removal/installer tool (#48921) costs? If not too expensive I might consider buying one, then buy a $90 6-ton Harbor-Freight hydraulic press.
Extreme HDF Member
Joined: Sep 2005
Posts: 11,615
Likes: 50
From: Baton Rouge, LA
I started getting a speed-related whine at 16k which escalated into a drone by 32k. Early on the tech road it and said it didn't sound bad enough to explore, which I agreed with, but after a second ride a year later said it needed work.
Last edited by iclick; Sep 19, 2009 at 11:28 PM.