DOC HARLEY: REAR AXLE ADJUSTING

[@jamesberry276]

Thanx a million! I'm going to get that motion pro tool. Save time removing the muffler & and stylish 3rd rail saddlebag rail each time I change the tire, bearings, or just adjust belt. Priceless info!

[@jimmyb.5356]

I Just took my rear off.. man i wish i woulda seen this video 1st! ordering this tool!

[@robbo6799]

The Motion Pro socket and the Jim’s 3rd hand axle locker tool for the other side are a must have. The 36mm wrench (which I had to grind a bit off to fit easier) isn’t required if you have the other pair. Providing you have a 36mm ring spanner to adjust belt on the cam nut.

[@egbertveer7531]

Even in the Netherlands we benefit from your advice. Thanks!

[@BrewCityRider]

Just picked up one of each - thanks Doc! I really don't want to have to remove my slip-ons to do a tire change or belt adjustment if I don't have to. Amazon has a bunch of both types of tools, but eBay had the least expensive Motion Pro tool by a few bucks with free shipping. The other tool is sold and rebranded by many companies, just look for the best price. OTC is the most expensive at about $36, and they go all the way down to $13 for the same exact tool.

[@twobeagles1365]

Good Tips ! I just upgraded my rear shocks on my 2019 RGS and belt tension changed because ride height changed went from a 12 inch OEM shock to a 13 inch Fox shock and found tool would not fit between shock and axle nut, You just answered the questions I was having , Thankyou Doc !

[@LowCountryHarleyDavidson]

Glad it helped….Doc

[@alred6568]

Hi, thanks for the tips. I love to see your videos, I find them very educational and very well presented. Instead of the motion pro, I also found a low profile 36 mm socket at the green autoparts stores. The price was about 12 dollars. Since I only need one low profile socket, I used an expensive 36mm socket I already had for the other side. Finally, in the past, I used to remove the bottom bolt of the shocks and allow the weight to lower the frame using a flat jack, this method allows for a much simpler way to properly torque the main nut.

[@LowCountryHarleyDavidson]

Thanks for sharing your Tech Tip…Doc

[@waynesiminski8268]

Motion Pro has some real nice stuff. That looks like the much better way to get that torque correct. Thanks

[@michaelwalker7874]

I’m 17 and I just purchased my first Harley, can’t wait to ride once the weather breaks and take it to school!

[@alanwhiteside410]

Alright another new young rider. Enjoy that bike and be very careful I always tell new riders that when you’re riding you are invisible to people in cars but still able to get hit. Keep your eyes on the road. I rather ride than driving a car 🤔 well unless it’s raining. Lol 😂

[@kmeades43]

Great, useful advice as ever Doc. Greetings from Sydney Australia 👍👍

[@edwarner3826]

Thanks for the Motion Pro tool tip. Just bought one.

[@darrinleazer6784]

I really enjoy your videos, I have actually learned a great deal of information. Because I just bought a 2015 Fatboy, and have used some of the info for certain things on my bike. Thank you and keep up the good work

[@LowCountryHarleyDavidson]

Thank you for watching. Enjoy your Fatboy👍

[@jschoneger]

These kinds of tips are why I watch you. Thanks!

[@RenegadesGarage]

Doc Harley... Awesome video.. I already have both of those tools.. Thanks for the tip. You would be surprised at how many people that are working on their bikes without a service manual or the proper tools..

[@BrewCityRider]

Do you prefer one tool over the other, or would you recommend just getting both?

[@RenegadesGarage]

@@BrewCityRider I would recommend both. Depending on the bike, accessories and exhaust you will find both useful.

[@harryohanson]

I have one. Bought it on the tool truck and it came with the matching ratcheting wrench. I have sometimes removed the shock bolts to move the swing arm up.

[@daviddunn5264]

Thanks doc, always appreciate the tips and tricks.

[@LonesomeNomad137]

You’re the man Doc. Love these tips

[@dtimm612]

I used to lift the bike, put a jack under the rear tire, then remove the brake caliper and bottom shock bolts. Use the jack to raise the tire/swingarm and you can get to the axle bolts easy without touching exhaust

[@LowCountryHarleyDavidson]

There are truely many ways to slice bread….Doc

[@Jarhead-le1qu]

Great content, as always. Just ordered the LAST Motion Pro Axle Socket, on Amazon...

[@Chaplain161]

There were 5 available today. Now down to 4.

[@Chaplain161]

Checked again after I ordered one and there are 15 now available. Funny how Amazon works.

[@TIMBHMAXX22]

I need to change the rotor on my 14 ultra Limited and I want to know how do I make sure that the rear wheel is going to be back in the same position it was before I loosen everything up. Thank you.

[@LowCountryHarleyDavidson]

Use a wide Jack. Raise the rear up just enough to slide the axle out part way. Remove spacer and exchange the disc. If you don’t have the jack and tools with Sevice manual, take it to your dealer…..Doc

[@robertm.divincenzo7954]

Do you have a video to determine whether or not the sprockets in the drive system need to be aligned and how to do that?

[@ChrisHardwickanimaladventures]

Hey Doc, you should sign up for Amazon Affiliates. You just need to set up your bank account with them, then you can get links to any product on Amazon. When people click on the link and buy it you can get up to 10% of the purchase, it's automatic and free money every month, you just put links in your description. I've seen big channels make $30,000 a month just from Amazon, pretty amazing. I make a little bit every month on my small channel that way LOL.

[@montanaguy]

Doc, great video as always. I would suggest there is an axle wrench provided in the tool kit that comes with the bike, and it is good for removing/installing the read and the front axle nuts for FIELD REPAIRS but does not provide for correct torquing them. I'm still going to add the Motion Pro tool to my home tool box as it is a bit thinner than the 36mm impact socket I have been using. Better clearance to get it on and off the nut.

[@michiganborn8303]

I could be wrong but when I learn about tourqe wrenches along time ago that there's a bit of a science behind putting multiple extensions and attachments on a tourqe wrenches will produce inaccurate results.

[@raymondpontremoli4500]

Yep, that's correct.

[@rochellejjphiilips8888]

Hey doc on my bike the inside guard that keeps the belt from sliiping off has come off do i need to replace the whole sprocket or can it be pressed back on.

[@LowCountryHarleyDavidson]

I have never “repaired” only replaced…Doc

[@mrloftybreez1503]

Great tool advertisement, but the title says axel adjustment. When does that video come out? I have a 2011 SG with the cam adjusters. Tips and tricks on proper axel alignment would be excellent.

[@LowCountryHarleyDavidson]

Sorry this video did not help you and your model...Doc

[@ronschlaeger9227]

Man, I enjoy your videos. So clear and accurate. Thanks, I'm going to subscribe right now! 👍🏻

[@LowCountryHarleyDavidson]

Awesome, thank you.....Doc

[@twinstickwizard3941]

I got one of those wrenches he is talking about from Harley in the tool kit. They need to reinstate the tool kit.

[@paulprosser4108]

Great advice Doc. Keep up the great informative videos best wishes from Wales (U.K)

[@maitlandslater4854]

working machinery down on the farm, dad would insist that i treat the machinery like a woman, you got let them warm up before you put them to work . as a 15 year old i just took his word on it. now i know , 600,000km on my old 351 clevland and 400,000 km on my 1993 evo and one base gasket replacement, rebuilt the engine in time as it was about to grenade itself. regular good oil and dont flog a cold motor.

[@hokaheyrider059]

Great info. Thanks much.

[@fumanversion]

Your torque value will have to be recalculated to consider the length of the flat wrench extension.

[@LowCountryHarleyDavidson]

I will research, it was my understanding that as long as the wrench is kept 90 degrees to the torque wrench, length does not matter…..Doc

[@dougfresh1341]

@@LowCountryHarleyDavidson Will be curious what is confirmed here. Thanks for videos again.

[@alanwhiteside410]

@@LowCountryHarleyDavidson I think as long as it’s kept at 90° to the torque wrench you’re ok. But research it to make sure as it’s always best to refresh our memory.

[@larryfromwisconsin9970]

Thanks for recommending an alternative to the expensive HD or NAPA tools. You don't discuss how to actually get the rear axle alignment right. I have just used the notches on metric bikes. I don't know if my HD1988 has alignment notches. I have seen the string method. What do you recommend?

[@Beardchanics]

Great video, what an useful tool to have.

[@mikelivingston6157]

Looks like I’m tool shopping again!

[@richjone]

Thanks a ton for the tip. Very helpful !!!

[@harleydavidson2132]

Please comment how exactly make the wheels in line when you adjusting belt on Softail.

[@jfro5867]

+1 I was thinking exactly the same thing?

[@jamesdumas6602]

It's only 3 little bolts to take the mufflers off, maybe 2 minutes verus buying all the special wrenches and doing all the gymnastics.

[@LowCountryHarleyDavidson]

Thank you for your short cut Tech Tip👍….Doc

[@flathead1930]

hi Doc Merry Christmas. I take the mufflers off. It is easier for me that way. But sometimes when i torque the axle I pull a muscle or tendon in my wrist, should I ice or put heat on the wrist. Thanks and Happy New Year Doc

[@LowCountryHarleyDavidson]

Most advise ice first. Merry Christmas. Thanks ~ Doc

[@guylipsky3599]

2009 street glide torque rear axels will it be the same as this bike I set it at 65 ft lbs

[@kennethking8943]

Doc , will any of the cast aluminum 13 spoke rear wheel fit my 1999 SupperGlide FXDX ? I've gotten confusing answers from three different wheel manufacturers .

[@johnvalle9575]

why does it always seem to more when tightening making the adjustment very difficult

[@MrGordon121]

ok, Doc I have a 2013 FLHTC and added the screw-in type known for the bags instead of the spring turn clips to hold them on. I wanted to remove the two horizontal rods that run over each other across the hard saddlebags. I was wondering if this can be done, and how would I go about doing it? I know I need the supports under the bags to support them. I know it's aesthetics but what can be done to achieve the look while, keeping the crash bars on. Maybe an idea for a vid'? Thanks from Fort Erie Ontario Canada

[@LowCountryHarleyDavidson]

I believe you are wanting the Harley Saddlebag support kit 90881-09A. Thanks ~ Doc

[@MrGordon121]

Your awesome thanks Doc

[@flstciguy8302]

6/3/23 1:15 pm Have a question that I have never heard anything on. Have a 06 Heritage 88B that wants to drift ever so slightly to the left . Any ideas?

[@LowCountryHarleyDavidson]

Sure wish you lived closer so we could have a very long conversation…..Doc

[@omarrueben]

This is what I have discovered after a few years and miles on a Harley and this is just how I see it. First off make sure your motormounds and shocks are good. Most of the weight on the Harley are on the left. Your primary chain and case. Clutch basket, belt and sprocket. With my bags empty, DON'T TRY THIS, THIS IS JUST ME, at 20-30 mph gently let go of the grips but keep your hands covering them. The Harley will slowly drift left due to the weight that's on the left. I put just enough of my heavier tools and stuff on the right bag until the bike is balanced and runs straight and actually easier to maneuver. Try this at your own risk. Please be careful.

[@KnuckleDragginDad]

Thanks for the video. Seems the owner of that bike is getting some use outa the crash bars! 🤣🤣🤣 ✌🏽🇺🇸🙏

[@scottwhitcomb7227]

Doc. I have a 2015 Harley ultra limited with 26k miles. I have developed a clunking noise coming from the swing arm area or shock area. I just installed legend revo shocks. I can't believe it is the shocks are causing the issue but could be. It (the clunking) on happens when you hit sharp bumps in the road. Like a raised Crack 3/4" or so. Do you have any idea as to what it could be? Thanks, Scott Whitcomb

[@LowCountryHarleyDavidson]

If the Legends are adjustable try a few different settings, especially stiffening the spring. Double check your installation. Some shocks interfer with the belt guard and need to be spaced out with washers....Doc

[@davechurchill416]

Great information doc!

[@javierosorio5169]

Thank you sir .

[@claytonselfridge7518]

How do I adjust the rear axle and tension belt tension on a 2004 Sportster

[@LowCountryHarleyDavidson]

Follow your Service Manual very carefully….Doc

[@claytonselfridge7518]

@@LowCountryHarleyDavidson I'm dyslexic thought you could do a in-depth video to help people who can't read like

[@claytonselfridge7518]

It would really help people like me who can't read

[@raymondpontremoli4500]

Hey Doc, Correct me if I am wrong but, the two cam plates on each side of the bike tension the belt however, there is almost nothing you can do about alignment of the back wheel. It's kind of a "is what it is". If I am not correct please correct me. So that brings me to my real question...How do I know my swing arm and back tire is in alignment with the front tire. My concern is the back tire is not in alignment with the front tire and is "scrubbing" sideways. I saw a video on using a string around the back tire and bring it to the front wheel but, really..??? I have a computer to run the engine but a string does the chassis alignment..???? There really is no accurate way to set the front wheel so you can check this alignment. If your only one degree off with the handle bars from zero center that would mean a huge error at the tire sidewall. My concern is that I will be actually knocking the bike out of alignment rather than aligning it. I have replaced the rubber pucks in the swing arm, one at a time and from what I could tell, nothing moved. Im going to replace the front motor mount also. The alignment linkages for the engine have never been touched so, Im wondering do I even need to check the rear swing arm alignment. How close does Harley Davidson actually get the alignment..??? I also put the tour linkage on from the transmission housing to the rear swing arm plate. They say it was set at the factor for the correct length however, when I went to install mine it was 1-1/2 turns too short. To get the bolts in without cross threading them I had to lengthen the linkage. Im finding it hard to believe that every linkage you buy from an aftermarket company works out of the box for all motorcycles. Oh, I have a 03, Shrine, Road King Peace Officer.FLHRI... Your thoughts and opinion would be really appreciated.

[@LowCountryHarleyDavidson]

I am impressed with your knowledge and desire to get everything right. Your post was long and my reply would be longer. The Factory Service Manual explains alignment and how to. Your front rubber mount has a lot to do with alignment. When it wears out many items are effected. Your local dealer can do a full alignment but I worn you it cost because it is a long process....Doc

[@raymondpontremoli4500]

@@LowCountryHarleyDavidson Thanks Doc...Sorry my question was so long..I try not to bother people...I know you're a busy man

[@2cuchifrito]

Where the Amazon link?

[@raymondpontremoli4500]

Assuming the thread on the Tour Linkage is 3/8-16 UNC. 1-1/2 turns out on the linkage translates to .094 roughly...

[@LowCountryHarleyDavidson]

Thanks...Doc

[@donaldduck2405]

Do you know the Front Hub width, Rear Hub width of a 2019 FLHCS?

[@LowCountryHarleyDavidson]

No I do not….Doc

[@donaldduck2405]

@@LowCountryHarleyDavidson it's hard finding the correct wheels for my bike. Thank you. RLTW

[@johnniethefox]

Excellent Doc... thanks for the tip... cheers 🍻🇷🇺 from Russia with love...... johnnie WOLVES MC RUSSIA.

[@royhall5729]

What was the torque formula you used for that tool due to the offset ?

[@LowCountryHarleyDavidson]

No formula needed if torque wrench is 90 degrees to tool while tightening. Thanks ~ Doc

[@hfd83]

@@LowCountryHarleyDavidsoni would think that you’re lengthening the the point of where torque is applied and is not going to be the same as if torqued at the fastener. i have a formula i use for torque wrench adapters.

[@danielgaskell5490]

Wow, thanks Doc!

[@Johnr37us]

Another fine video from Doc Harley

[@mikemyers8897]

Bought Wrench and socket on Amazon 20 bucks 36 mm low profile socket

[@roncoburn7771]

good one doc

[@kennethwise7108]

How many ft/lbs did you compensate for the length of the wrench?

[@LowCountryHarleyDavidson]

There is no compensation if the torque wrench is 90 degrees to wrench. Thanks ~ Doc

[@markh4763]

That is a great tip

[@joezednick3197]

Thanks Doc!!!

[@cavav7678]

How to align a Dyna ??

[@jamessmoth8683]

Missed the point that's in the title. "Adjusting rear axle" All I saw was ways to loosen and tighten the axle nuts.

[@MrKK-tw1nh]

The cams on either side of the axel behind the nuts are what allows the adjustment. There are other videos Specific to that.

[@jamessmoth8683]

@@MrKK-tw1nh this video was titled "Real axle adjusting." Doc did not cover what was needed in the video vs the title

[@edkin86]

adjust it from the left side turn it left to loosen the belt right to tighten the belt u want about 1 inch of deflection on the belt... the issue im having is the manual says 15 to 20 ft/lbs for the rear axle nut and the belt keeps loosening on me... im gonn atry 105 ft/lbs if that is too loose im going tighter

[@MrHog789]

Amazon has a bunch of low profile sockets that work and around $10 to $15 dollar

[@LowCountryHarleyDavidson]

Thanks for the tool tip....Doc

[@drsmith751]

What's the size nut for an m8 softail?

[@LowCountryHarleyDavidson]

Still 36mm for the nut. Left side axle is 1 1/8. Thanks ~ Doc

[@johncasor9698]

Part No. 08-0635 $47.99 orders of $59.99 or more ship for free This item is unavailable. Out of stock at Motion Pro,,,,, the tool is sold out today so i will try later to get this wonderful tool ... Thx Doc Harley...

[@dimitrikostakis7775]

Love it

[@ocglide2566]

I bought mine on Amazon.

[@rgh622]

Here's a link to the thin closed end 36mm wrench: www.jpcycles.com/product/166-6169/pit-posse-motorsports-36mm-axle-nut-wrench?PLA-Pit%20Posse%20Motorsports-Products&Cj0KCQiAtqL-BRC0ARIsAF4K3WGml9NM5i1PEJ6otAcETSRJbnKHf_8Kf8WMcsIIcKntumrBPBuZfocaAjBLEALw_wcB&gclid=Cj0KCQiAtqL-BRC0ARIsAF4K3WGml9NM5i1PEJ6otAcETSRJbnKHf_8Kf8WMcsIIcKntumrBPBuZfocaAjBLEALw_wcB

[@maynardjames9533]

And how is your cam plate not spinning?!

[@LowCountryHarleyDavidson]

Why would it with the correct Torque?

[@maynardjames9533]

@@LowCountryHarleyDavidson because it happens a lot! And it’s a horrible design!

[@MrNelsonroland]

How many foot pounds do you loose with every inch of extension?

[@Boobtube.]

i think you have to use pi to figure that out,

[@talkingrock7011]

None torque is torque

[@paulsaulsbury438]

Extensions don’t matter It’s the angle of the wrench handle to the tool. 90 degrees no calculation needed

[@LowCountryHarleyDavidson]

I have never thought about it. Please share your source of information so we may all know. Thanks ~ Doc

[@MrNelsonroland]

I always thought that a torque wrench readings were only accurate closest to the wrench itself. Simple physics.

[@mynameisearl1777]

torque specs not critical because of locking ring. cool tool though

[@LowCountryHarleyDavidson]

Your kidding? Right Earl? Wheel, belt drive, rear disc, bearing to name a few would destroy themselves without correct torque. The clip is for Your safety in case someone did Not Torque correctly…Doc

[@mynameisearl1777]

@@LowCountryHarleyDavidson no not kidding"doc" after doing several you can ball park it. A few pounds wont change anything "doc"

[@rugershooter5268]

Amazon motion pro $49, "you may also like" 36mm short socket without extension $8, and it fits on the nut with muffler in place. Without this video I'd probably be cussin Harley when I go adjusting the belt.

[@dejonsmall9886]

Great tool, but if you are out on the road not many people cary a torque wrench...

[@RenegadesGarage]

Freddie Ray... Not many people adjust their belt tension out on the road either but In an emergency just tighten it up and remember to recheck the belt and torque it when you get back home.. Or find the nearest motorcycle shop and have them do it.

[@mountaindew8042]

👍👂🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟👀

[@LowCountryHarleyDavidson]

Well thank you for all those stars.....Doc

[@Thierry-zq4eq]

Harley c'est comme le made in China des années 80/90 .... La qualité n'est absolument pas au rendez-vous. Pas de quoi pavoiser ou de se moquer de nos bagnoles

[@munciebill8674]

While I enjoyed viewing your KZbin videos, I will no longer support KZbin who has now entered the realm of political censorship and therefore must unsubscribe.

[@stlchuckhd]

Thank you for the clear description of the tools you use and how to use them. 🇺🇸 @stlchuckhd

[@LowCountryHarleyDavidson]

Thank you for watching Chuck…Doc