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2003 Road King RW Removal

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Old Dec 5, 2012 | 11:14 AM
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Default 2003 Road King RW Removal

Hello all, first post. I have done some searching around on a few threads and can not find the specific answer that I am looking for, hopefully someone can answer.


Which side does the axle nut have to come off in order to pull the axle through? I have heard that it usually comes out the left side of the bike, but if that is the case, does that mean the threads on the right side axle nut are reverse thread? If Im not mistaken, the "wing" on the right side nut (if you were to loosen to the left) would only tighten the tension right?

Chevy's are my background, not Harley's. So if that sheds any light on my situaton here. Any helpis appreciated, and thanks in advance!
 
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Old Dec 5, 2012 | 11:22 AM
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I don't know about 03, but on my 11 there is a regular threaded nut on the left and the right side is the head of the axle bolt...think of it as a big bolt with a nut on one side and head on the other...hope this helps
 
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Old Dec 5, 2012 | 11:47 AM
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You would do well to get yourself a factory service manual. If say you are taking the wheel out for a new tyre the book describes the various things you have to do on reassembly, such as tensioning the belt. There is a handy tool for helping to get that right. IIRC that nut and the axle head are 36mm across, quite big and an awkward size! Loosen all fixings while the bike is firmly on the ground - I had to use an extender bar to get my nut loose last time.
 
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Old Dec 5, 2012 | 12:15 PM
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Originally Posted by mrfikser
I don't know about 03, but on my 11 there is a regular threaded nut on the left and the right side is the head of the axle bolt...think of it as a big bolt with a nut on one side and head on the other...hope this helps
and they are regular right-hand thread (lefty loosey)... the adjuster wing is a separate piece from the nut, but part of the bolt.
 
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Old Dec 6, 2012 | 09:11 AM
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Originally Posted by Joe12RK
and they are regular right-hand thread (lefty loosey)... the adjuster wing is a separate piece from the nut, but part of the bolt.
yes, it is a regular threaded nut...
 
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Old Dec 6, 2012 | 10:00 AM
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I googled it came up with video's on utube. Give that a shot and DEFINITELY pick up a service manual. Its the best investment you will make while owning that bike.
 
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Old Dec 6, 2012 | 10:28 AM
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Originally Posted by c_sprouse

Chevy's are my background, not Harley's. So if that sheds any light on my situaton here. Any help is appreciated, and thanks in advance!

That 'Chevy' thing explains a lot......if you were a Ford guy it'd be so very obvious for you.

The axle nut comes off of the side that's threaded - the other side has the snail adjuster welded to it. You may be able to reverse the axle (I have on several bikes) depending on the exhaust....and of course allowing for that 'Chevy' thing.

You're welcome,
A Ford Guy
 

Last edited by Leftcoaster; Dec 6, 2012 at 10:35 AM.
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Old Dec 6, 2012 | 10:42 AM
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Thanks for the help. As soon as mrfikser said one would be threaded I found it and knocked it out. Just needed a decent cheater bar. Not as difficult as imagined on changing the rotor and brakes. Probably because I didnt have to take the tire out of the wheel well to do so.


Leftcoaster - dont be so mad that you always owned Fords. Its ok. We all feel sorry for you too.
 
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Old Dec 6, 2012 | 11:24 AM
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Originally Posted by c_sprouse
Thanks for the help. As soon as mrfikser said one would be threaded I found it and knocked it out. Just needed a decent cheater bar. Not as difficult as imagined on changing the rotor and brakes. Probably because I didnt have to take the tire out of the wheel well to do so.


Leftcoaster - dont be so mad that you always owned Fords. Its ok. We all feel sorry for you too.


He-he...

Dear Chevy boy,
Here's another tip that piece of Chevy owners usually don't know:
Lightly grease the axle before replacing it back in the bike. (Do not use anti-seize....trust me.)
You will then be able to easily slide the axle back out the next time....without resorting to frequently used Chevy tools such as hammers and/or cheater bars.

You're welcome again,
A Hap-Hap-Happy Ford Guy (and smart, too)
 
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Old Dec 6, 2012 | 02:39 PM
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Originally Posted by Leftcoaster
He-he...

Dear Chevy boy,
Here's another tip that piece of Chevy owners usually don't know:
Lightly grease the axle before replacing it back in the bike. (Do not use anti-seize....trust me.)
You will then be able to easily slide the axle back out the next time....without resorting to frequently used Chevy tools such as hammers and/or cheater bars.

You're welcome again,
A Hap-Hap-Happy Ford Guy (and smart, too)



Ha. Have a Merry Christmas!
 
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