November 6, 2010 10:24 AM PDT
Alright Lucky.... 10-4 on the torque spec, thanks!
Regarding the 7/16" drill bit gauge, I've seen quite a few posts during my 'all day' research into the problem...many speak of using it...so , thanks on that too! I'll do as you say!
Something esle.... do you think the axle nut should be a 'castellated type'... ya know... the kind of nut w/ the internal plastic, since the axle does not have a hole on the left side for a cotter key, ....thus preventing the nut to back off....any thoughts ?
Finally, I've noticed the existing spacers are of unequal length. As I loosened the axle nut, the wheel began to flow freely, however there now, exists a sizeable gap between this spacer and the fork.... (i.e. the right side spacer, as you sit on the bike). I'm thinking I may need either (a) correct sized spacers ... or (b) just insert a couple of machined 'washers' or shims to take up that slack.
You see, I believe that after setting the forks as you say w/ the drill bit technique, I will continue to have that gap....the spacers are not the same length....
Do you think that's a designe flaw or what?
November 6, 2010 1:03 PM PDT
Dave, I would thing with the axle nut tightened to 50 ft lbs you should have no problem with the nut backing off. I have over 200,000 on my last two Road Kings and never noticed one come loose. And I do check all critical hardware a couple times a year.
For the spacers, there are different spacers on the right and the left sides. What appears to be a gap on the right side is normal, but the way the spaces and pilot is set up it is not a problem.
The right side should look like the picture below when adjusted correctly (and yes I know my forks are pitted - I ride a lot of hard miles)
November 6, 2010 3:51 PM PDT
Alright Lucky, thanks so much man....that picture really helped out,....
I'll do as you say and let you know .....
Gotta say it though, ....I just can't believe that space is normal.....but if that is the case, the mechanic at the dealership , 'bit' down on the axle nut and as a result, there was no space....Not only was it causing my wheel from functioning properly, but I'll but hard $$$ on it, that it put undue pressure or stress on my forks....
In anycase, that's for the help, truly appreciate it ...
And yea.............your forks look like hell!!!
November 7, 2010 1:36 AM PDT
It sounds like you have a good handle on this problem. I will suggest you also have the bearings replaced or at least checked. That over-tightening could have damaged them.