I just removed the rear wheel on my Bob to send the wheel in for Powdercoating. Following the manual exactly, getting the axle out was a MAJOR pain in the A$$! I'm not that experienced with this type of work. However, with the mechanical experience I do have, I thought it should have came out easier. After getting the axle out, the ant-seize compund appeared "gummy" and the axle, (although not thouroughly cleaned), looks rusted in spots with crusty residue on it.

1. Should I be concerned with the looks of it? Or is this normal? Is it normal (although a very funny site to see) to have 3 large dudes working up a sweat to get an axle out?

2. If you guys feel I should take it in to the dealer to take a look: The bike has only 5,000 miles on it. I have been on a perfect maintenance schedule with the dealer and I have an extended warranty. Is the dealer going to raise the B.S. flag if I bring in the axle / wheel that I took off and deny any warranty?

3. I figure taking your own wheel off does not void any maitenance warranties. We don't all own trucks or trailors. How else are we suppose to get wheels in for repair.

 

I would check the bearings and axle for wear or problems and if nothing is found I would move on. Nothing really the dealer will do for ya except for clean everything up and throw it back together. I know tthese things can be BS but as I have found out alot of things in life arent fair.

 

My axle was the same except we could find no anti-seize on it at all. Took a sledge to get it out, but then just buffed it on a wire wheel. Put some anti-seize on it and slid it back in. The second time it was off for a new tire, it slid right out with no issues. Try taking it back if it bothers you. Your wheel will be off for a while so if they have to order a new axle, then you will be fine. If they give you a song and dance, just clean it up and re-coat it.

 

if you use a pressure washer STOP using it that is what the dealer will tell you. just clean up the axel you will probley be installing new berings after the powder coater finishes so you will be ok

 

If that is the first time the axle was off all that struggle was normal in my experience. Clean up the axle, inspect for true by rolling on a glass table top, lather it up with permatex anti-seize and reuse. When re-installing a wheel you can get an "axle kit" from your dealer which will have all new fasteners and bearings for your application. Mine was $69 and had everything with new factory threadlocker on. It is also advisable to get some permatex thread cleaner and clean the threads on any fasteners you remove. If you left everything attached to the wheel then no need.

 

That is common on all bikes from any manufacturer.

They only give a quick shot of grease at assembly.

When you buy a new bike, you should repack everything with grease and check the bolts.

While your bike is down, you should hit the steering stem bearings...doubt there's much grease in there too.

 

The bolts that hold the pulley to the wheel should not be used again. Get yourself some new bolts or new chrome ones but do NOT reuse the old ones.