[Guest]

I have a 1997 ss/sp, solid axle, w/ the hex fitting on the right side of the axle. This needs to be removed after the pinch bolts are loosened. What size hex key/bit does this take? TIA...

 

[Guest]

Re: Hex key/bit size for front axle removal? (DesmoBob)

I don't know what size yours is (the hex that is) but i just use a bolt and a pair of vice grips cos they are not hard to turn or get out.

 

[Guest]

Re: Hex key/bit size for front axle removal? (Monstaman)

Good idea; thanks!

 

[Guest]

Re: Hex key/bit size for front axle removal? (DesmoBob)

Saves a few dutchie dollars eh

 

[Guest]

Re: Hex key/bit size for front axle removal? (DesmoBob)

I believe it's a 14mm hex. somewhat difficult to find. i got mine from mcmaster.com

 

[Guest]

Re: Hex key/bit size for front axle removal? (Monstaman)

i think the torque on that is a bit higher:

 

[Guest]

Re: Hex key/bit size for front axle removal? (edwyun)

Guys, thanks for the help. I tried the bolt trick (had an M10 that fit perfectly), but...

I can't get the two halves of the axle apart. I put a lot of torque on it w/ vise grips, but would not budge. I kept the left fork pinch bolts tightened, but nothing. Am I doing something wrong?

 

[Guest]

Re: Hex key/bit size for front axle removal? (DesmoBob)

what i do is:
1. remove the brake calipers from the forks (you can hang them from the levers with short bungie cords) as well as the speedo cable attachment.
2. loosen the 2 pinch bolts on the bottom of the right fork leg.
3. don't loosen the pinch bolts on the left fork leg as they hold the spacer in place and prevent it from rotating.
4. use a breaker bar with the allen head to rotate the axle. it takes several revolutions to remove it (be sure to hold the wheel so that the axle can pull smoothly out).


whatcha doin? replacing wheels, rims, SBK forks,...?

 

[Guest]

Re: Hex key/bit size for front axle removal? (edwyun)

I got it...had to put 2 nuts on a bolt and push it in, then put a long ratchet ratchet on it. Bit of a bitch!

BTW, I'm breaking the whole bike down to repaint the frame and new/refinished bodywork. I want to service the forks while I'm in there; I'm really not a good enough rider to justify SBK forks, etc., so I'll just be replacing the oil w/ lighter weight (2.5) and making sure everything's cool in there.

Thanks again for the help!

Bob

 

[Guest]

Re: Hex key/bit size for front axle removal? (DesmoBob)

I went to the local tool shack and bought a cheap set of large metric hex wrenches and just hacksawed a few inches off so I could use them in sockets. This makes it real easy on or off. My 95 ss/sp is 14mm,good luck.

 

[Guest]

Re: Hex key/bit size for front axle removal? (jdjanetka)

Too late to turn back now...

Frame comes off TODAY!!