Front wheel not spining freely

[mike_y]

1979 XS1100SF - 8000miles
After tightening up the front wheel I noticed its not spinning as freely as it should.
And this is without the brakes mounted yet.
Feels like there is drag somewhere.
Bearings seem ok.
Spacer in correct position.
Speedometer drive in place.
Greased seals.
Help.

Leaving for Sturgis, SD Saturday.
:/

[jwhughes3]

Did you torque the axle bolt before the pinch bolts? There is suprisingly little torque involved.



John

[mike_y]

Did you torque the axle bolt before the pinch bolts? There is surprisingly little torque involved.



John

yes. followed the manual.
took it apart and put it back together. seems better.
but not perfect.

[Eveready1100]

Ok, did you torque the axle nut, then check that the brake disc was centred in the slot of the fork casting


like this but on the other side of the front end (didn't have a photo of the proper side)

If not centred, the disc can rub on the casting so a bit of pressure is applied to the fork leg to move the slot over to the middle, then tighten the pinch bolts while holding it in position.
It sounds a bit weird applying side loading to the fork slider, but that's what has to be done to get things to line up properly

[mack]

Does it only

start to bind after you tighten the axle? IE. does the wheel spin freely on the axle itself?