Recommendations for replacing wheel kits
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Ultimate HDF Member
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From: 46th State, USA
Recommendations for replacing wheel kits
Is it always recommended to replace wheel sets when changing wheels? If I am only changing the low mileage OEM to another style wheel, should I always install new wheel sets? I'm primarily taking about bearing spacers and bearings and not rotors.
Last edited by shortride; Aug 25, 2010 at 01:32 PM.
Seasoned HDF Member
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From: Central Illinois, Between I-80 and I-74
Are the bearings and spacers the correct size for the new wheels? If so and if the bearings are removed without damage I don't see any reason not to.
But when you look at the cost of wheels, the cost of new bearings and spacers is not significant.
But when you look at the cost of wheels, the cost of new bearings and spacers is not significant.
Road Captain
Joined: Mar 2009
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That's a good question. Presuming the proper tool was used to remove the wheel bearings, why couldn't you re-use them? Though not intended, I now have the bearing install tool from HD and after doing mine. Not only was it easy, I was a bit miffed a how much other crap I would never use was included in the "bearing install kit". What a joke. Bolts and spacers for a V-Rod? Why??? Cheap valve stem. Plain rotor bolts. I mean come on, if you're doing custom wheels, you'll likely put on a decent looking valve stem, chrome rotor bolts and whatnot. I may be looking into swapping out the wheels on my RG. (provided I sell the rest of my stuff!) I may just go ahead and use my old bearings & spacers. Only if I'm able to sell the RG wheels will I not re-use the goods.
Interested in others thoughts as well.
(dealer wanted $289 to install two tires and wheel bearings, thieves. had the tires done elsewhere & did bearings myself including new tool for less money)
Interested in others thoughts as well.
(dealer wanted $289 to install two tires and wheel bearings, thieves. had the tires done elsewhere & did bearings myself including new tool for less money)
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Ultimate HDF Member
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From: 46th State, USA
I didn't describe the entire wheel changing scenario. I am replacing the OEM wheels on my '09 Ultra Classic with a set of Ultra Limited wheels that still have the original bearings with less than 5000 miles on it. That's the main reason I was wondering if I need to install new bearing.
Outstanding HDF Member
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From: usa
Hi Bikes
If I could have bought a set of limited wheels with bearings and only 5k on them,I wouldn't be putting new bearings in them.Your ride is gonna look great with those wheels and they are soo much easier to keep clean and looking good.
If I could have bought a set of limited wheels with bearings and only 5k on them,I wouldn't be putting new bearings in them.Your ride is gonna look great with those wheels and they are soo much easier to keep clean and looking good.
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Ultimate HDF Member
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From: 46th State, USA
I guess you mounted a set of new wheels on yours? Did you use your orginal bearings?
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Outstanding HDF Member
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From: usa
Yeah,I bought new wheels,and new bearingsI'm not sure if you could remove the bearings without damaging them.My plan is that whenever I sell or trade my bike I'll put the original wheels back on,and sell the Limited Wheels.
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Seasoned HDF Member
Joined: Sep 2007
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From: Central Illinois, Between I-80 and I-74
Sounds like your asking about leaving the bearings in. I'd do it and never think twice about it. From you original post I thought you were wanting to pull the bearings from your old wheel and install them in a new one.
FWIW use antisieze on the axle and torque everything per the manual.
FWIW use antisieze on the axle and torque everything per the manual.
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