Now I am confused as to whether or not the front forks need to be aligned once they are taken off. According to the Harley Davidson Service manual there is no mention of any alignment procedure. The manual states that there is a measurement between the top of the upper tree and the top of the nut on the top end of the fork (roughly .5") but that's it. Once those forks are at the correct height everything is bolted together and tightened up. There is no mention of any stiction issues or alignment procedures.

 

There can't possibly be an alignment procedure because the lower forks can just spin around after they are installed. The only measurement that matters is that both of the front forks are at the same height when tightened into the triple trees. The service manual gives the measurement.

 

OK, then by all means do it the way you want, but I can tell you from experience there is a reason for that hole in the axle and it has to due with proper alignment of the front end.

 

Where did you get this picture? I don't see it in my service manual.

 

I've had the front wheel off a few times on my '06 Low Rider. Have always done the step that 8541hog is talking about. I always thought that it had more to do with keeping the axel bolt from pinching the bearings but I'll be the first to admit, I don't know what I'm talking about. Suggestion: Do what service manual for your bike tells you to do.

 

I stand by what I posted. Do what you want, makes me no never mind what you do to your ride, but you shouldn't pass bad info around.

 

By the way 8541hog your picture is of a dual disc front end. This guy has a single disc.

JGCable
Go by what the HD service manual says. You'll be fine.

 

I didn't pass bad info, what I stated is based on actual experience, which apparently you do not have. The manual is wrong!
If you set the spacer against the slider and tighten everything up I guarantee you will have a problem on a single disc wide glide, been there done that, how the hell do you think I learned that the manual is wrong?

As you said, do what you want, I could care less. But do not tell me I am wrong when I have actually been there done that. MANY Times.

 

Put it back together like the manual says and spin the front wheel while it is off the ground. If it spins, put her down and ride!