Rear wheel rotor removal

[bobbybhb]

Hi all
I’m changing the wheel bearings on the rear wheel and need to get the T50 torx bolts loose. Very tight right now. Any suggestions ? Thanks

[Donkey Hotey]

Already replied via email but, for others who see this in the future: heat, heat and more heat. The rotor and pulley screws are in with good old Precote 80 thread locker. As a reminder: the compound doesn't release until above 350 F (175 C).


I made a heat shield to protect the paint on the rotor carrier and get a good blast from a propane torch on the center of each screw before trying to loosen.


Second: those screws have broken 2-3 Craftsman Torx bits on my bikes. I've found the one-piece forged ones from Lisle seem to be much stronger.


Even after all of this, don't be surprised if you need to drill the head off of one or two. Once the heads are off and the rotor removed, you can really lay into the torch on each stub. With enough heat, they unscrew without any fight at all.

[bobbybhb]

Thanks Greg
Got the heat up to @ 350 F and the bolts came out like putty. Well actually Loctite putty

[Berlin Bob]

 FYI...Also if ya have not done the so called double bearing shit ... reverse the wheel if ya replaced the tube/tire ....it is the same both sides...makes it easy to air up....more clearance ...just sayin

[bobbybhb]

Thanks will do.

[Donkey Hotey]

Damn, Bob, that's a good suggestion! Just a few months ago, I did it backwards and then disassembled it all and remounted the tire to 'make it right.'

Yeah, no exhaust in the way, no belt guard, no pulley. It's on the downhill side but, still probably much better access. I shoulda' left it that way.

[wytfut]

those dang rotor bolts.... I learned the hard way, way back then....
I at that time migged a torq socket to the bolt, and finally got it. Most likely it was the heat of welding.

I now, take the wheel off and lay it down on some big timbers (to protect from any concrete scratching, and make it easier for this old geyer to bend over) on the floor. Get my impact gun out with the proper torq socket. lay my fat old butt on the back side of the impact.... and they come out everytime. I should state my butt weighs in around 250, so if you are lighter than that, you may want to put some lead in your pockets.

Bob.... thats a great idea... too late now for me. I've got a South African buddy who rides.. and clued me into those 90 degree shrader valve attachments. They work well, may want to shoot with some soapy water, to make sure you have them on tight....

[franknsr]

Can't believe that none of you old school guys cracked out the impact driver for this one. Best way to get tough fasteners loose on a bike while simultaneously getting blood to spurt out of your hand. Good times man.

[wytfut]

Frank ... you got me laughing. Much needed.