Wheel Bearings

[04Fatboy]

'04 Flstfi, sealed bearings of course.

I was doing some maintenance and generally checking things over when I noticed that the ring that has the plastic/rubber center that appears to be a grease seal, was spinning loosely on the axle spacer on the pulley side of the rear wheel.

Is this supposed to be attached to the bearing or does it press up against the bearing? Can I tap it back in place, or do I need to install new bearings?

There is a little grease in the hub and on the spacer but not a lot, I do not know how many miles it has been loose.

Thanks,
Don

[PoorUB]

If it is the grease seal for the bearing I would replace the bearing. No telling of how much dirt has gotten into the bearing with the seal off.

[04fatty]

That little cover  on the bearing can be taken off and on the bearing (little screwdriver) but should be on it. PoorUB is right, if it got contaminated it'd probably wear out quickly. I'd replace it.

[PosseRider]

If there is grease in the hub (black, dirty) replace the bearing. I would actually do both sides & then no worries for some time. My indy uses some non HD that fit & not as costly as the Stealer.

[aal]

Assuming the bearing seal remains intact, how often should the wheel bearings be replaced?

[truck]

Assuming the bearing seal remains intact, how often should the wheel bearings be replaced?

I'm wondering the same thing myself, and what non H-D bearings to use on a 2001 Ultra?

[04Fatboy]

Pulled the wheel tonight, pulled the pulley to get a good look.  Will be taking it to the shop tomorrow to have a new set of bearings pressed in.  Thanks for the replies.
Don

[PoorUB]

Assuming the bearing seal remains intact, how often should the wheel bearings be replaced?

Right before they wear out!?
Seriously, the wheel bearings should last for 100,000 miles, easy, unless something happens to them in the mean time. Blast from a presure washer, abuse from changing tires, the list goes on. There is no way anyone can guess how long they will last. Check them good when ever the wheels are off, loose at all, if any doubt change them.