I'm installing new floating rotors on my Street Glide this weekend. HD says to install new rotor bolts at the same time. Is this really necessary? The only reason that I ask is because I already have the nice chrome bolts on my bike. I'd like to reuse them if possible, instead of having to ride 75 miles (each way) to the dealer to buy new ones.

Thanks,
Doug

 

Many reuse the rotor bolts. I feel that HD tells us that to sell more parts

It's more likely a liability issue with them. Just remember to use a bit of heat on the heads of the bolts , they should have red locktite on them and you'll tear up the heads trying to remove them without the heat to soften the red locktite.

Also don't forget to use the proper torque when reinstalling the new rotors and a criss cross patern tightening them to prevent warpage.. I usually take the bolts down in a few incriments, not all at once on each bolt in turn.

 

I also reused my chrome bolts last 35,000 , there still there.

 

I've had the rotors off of my bike several times...once to polish the rotors, once when I warped one, and once when I hit a deer and bent one. I always reused them. BTW, I used blue Loctite each time.

 

Thanks everyone for your responses - looks like I'll be reusing mine too. You guys saved me a trip to the dealer.

Doug

 

Hey Glide how much heat do you use-torch heat gun.....?
I have been wondering about this, because I will be replacing my softail shocks with some works heavy duty and know that the swing arm bolts have red locktight
TIA