i had a flat took the front wheel off got new tube. when i put the front wheel on my 94 sportster and tighten the axle nut to 55ft-lbs the wheel will not turn easy by hand. should i just snug the axle nut allowing the wheel to turn or should it be tighten to what the book calls for of 50-55 ft-lbs? could i be missing a spacer or the bearings need replaced. the wheel seemed to turn fine before i removed it from the bike and i haven't heard any grinding noises.

 

Spacers are needed and should have been put back in the precise order of how you took them off. If it's not spaced right then it will misplace the brake rotors (with-in the pads) and cause all kinds of issues.

Do you have your bike's repair manual yet? It's the best investment you can make if you ever consider doing any service on your own.

 

yes i have a manual, and the brake caliper went back on with out any issues, but i will try removing the brake caliper and see if that will make it easier to turn the wheel.