I was getting ready to install some Harley rear axle nut covers on my '02 Fatboy when I noticed that when I had a new tire installed last year, the shop put the axle in from the left side, with the castle nut on the right side of the bike. It's been this way for almost 1500 miles now without any problem but Harley says it needs to be installed from the right.

Does anyone know if it really matters from a safety perspective. Again, it's never been a problem and I would never have known if not for trying to install these covers. Thanks in advance.

 

I don't know if it will hurt anything, but I would still want it installed the way it was intended. Just my .02

 

it doesnt matter what side it is installed from. the reason the shop and I do this is so that you dont have to remove the exhaust to remove the axle next time.

 

Yeah that . Most shops will do that , as well as most wrenches who do their own work , me included .

 

Thanks for the replies. I won't worry about it then.