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ealed wheel bearings are found on 2000 and newer Harley-Davidson’s. They are also on old to new metric motorcycles. It is a good idea to check these or have your local service shop check them for you during a tire change. You may also be removing them or replacing them before or after powder-coating/ chrome plating of your rims. The tools required for doing this task are relatively affordable and can pay for themselves during the first use. They are definitely a great addition to your tool box.
During a tire change or anytime the wheel may be removed from the motorcycle. I strongly advise that you
18 April ‘18
- CYCLE SOURCE MAGAZINE
Article And Photos By: Daniel Donley
www.pandemoniumcustomchoppers.com check your wheel bearings to feel their condition. You do this by inserting your finger into the bearing and rolling the bearing back and forth. If you feel any roughness or a lot of resistance your bearings will need to be replaced. I use a Jim’s wheel bearing removal and installation tool kit. You can purchase the kit for around $150 and this is a top of the line kit. Other kits are available for less money.
This is what the wheel bearing removal and installation tool kit consists of: this particular kit has pullers and installers for ¾” -1” – 25mm bearings. I have had this kit for many years and it has served me well. Definitely worth the money!
I personally like to use OEM manufacturer bearings, or bearings from All Balls racing. Both are quality bearings. Beware of cheap knockoffs as they will NOT last. Even quality bearings are not very expensive, you can typically put bearings in one wheel for under $40
The kit uses an internal bearing
