has anyone tried to pop the seals out of the bearing with the wheel installed? looks like the axle spacer is alittle bigger than the bearing.

 

You would prolly ruin it trying to get out. But if you did you would get new bearings.

 

Are you talking tapered roller bearing wheels? The seals cost about 3 bucks each. You'll be lucky to get them out without damaging them, so buy new ones. As for removing them in the bike, no way........

 

Not the case at all. I do this all the time. I use the dental pick tools and it pops right out. Just replaced tires and had my seals out for the first time since the bike was new, 12-years ago. Was surprised at all the grease that was in there, still got some in there though. I didn't take notice to what mfgr the bearings were; but on every metric bike I've had they were usually pretty dry. Did the factory use Timken wheel brgs in 02?

 

sorry guys, 25 mm bearings. was gonna try and remove the seals and put some grease in the bearings. don't know if i could remove the seals while the wheel is still on the bike. looks like the spacer is alittle larger than the seal.

 

No you can't remove the seal with the wheel on the bike.

 

Those bearings come from the factory (whoever made them!) as lubricated and 'sealed'. They are not designed to be dismantled in any way. Don't be too alarmed by some of the stuff you read on the internet about Harley wheel bearings, or you will never sleep soundly!

 

If you are slick, you can get a little grease in there.
A friend was doing his a while back with a needle grease fitting, cool as hell.
I might do mine soon.

 

Its no problem removing the seals. Nothing special about them at all. I just didn't think you could do it with the wheel on the bike.

 

But yourself a manual!!!!!!