Actually it 38k........I just updated the profile.....but nonetheless that's WAY too often. My first inclination is to use the new Timken bearings, but I'm giving serious thought to installing the 21mm wide bearings and be done with it. The "custom" work is no problem because I have full access to a machine shop right where I work

Seems like wheel bearings and I don't get along, even going back to the tapered bearings in my 1988 FLHS. And I DO NOT pressure wash the bike. You would not believe how many people ask that question when I tell them I've had a wheel bearing failure.

 

Blueglide88,
I better clear something up...This thread was originally about installing a later wheel on a 2000-2007 1" axle bike so i was just going with that when I suggested the link and using the 21mm wide bearings...I just realized, even though i was looking at your Sig for the mileage, that you have a 2011 (which has a 25mm axle). You would have to also get a 2000-2007 1" axle to use those 1" ID x 21mm Wd bearings (sliders are the same 2000-2013 regardless of axle size). Not a big deal, but is an additional part to acquire.

Hope that clears things up

 

Yes I figured on that, but thanks again for all the good info you put out about these bearings!

 

Replaced my front bearings tonight on the 2011 Road King. Sure enough my ears were not deceiving me, one of the bearings were bad. I used the stock size 15mm wide bearing but I did replace it with a Timken. I SHOULD have taken pictures of the hub. One side was perfect, the other had a couple "diggers" in it. There was also a lot of debris, and the center spacer was very rusted on the outside. I have no idea how water got in there, I DO NOT pressure wash the bike or shoot water onto the axles when washing. When I get time I will remove the seals on the bad bearing and look inside.

While I was down there I replaced my front brake pads too...they were worn way down.....so I should be trouble free the rest of the year. Crossing my fingers.....