JR wrote: I ran into this problem the first time I took the front wheel off my 1980 KZ750 E1. and so slimjim+XZ1EBE's explanation makes perfect sense. As KZ900JOE said -
I can see that the front axle clamps will keep these nuts from walking and stay in place. I currently have about 15 ft lb.
I did the same and probably have the same torque on the nuts and have been running like this for perhaps the last 15 - 20,000 kms without issue.. Not saying its ok to do this just that I have done it and I dont worry about it.
When I decide to replace front wheel bearings (did rear a few year ago) I'll be interested in the condition of the spacer....... if there is one .If not then I'll blame PO
Thank you for everyone's response. JR, I think I am going to do the same. I don't like the idea, but apparently that how it has been all along this past 6 years that I have owned the bike.
I understand what slmjim & Z1BEBE saying and that is probably what is now happening. In my case the cause is because I don't have the left bearing driven home all the way. Since if I do, things jam up even before I put the axle on. If the spacer was shorter, then it shouldn't have gotten jammed by the bearings when they were driven home all the way. The spacer should have been able move around and not put pressure on the bear inner racer and thereby the bearings themselves. Couldn't put the axle under these circumstances since the spacer was not aligned and I couldn't center since it was very tight in there. So I had to slightly back out the bearing in order give some clearance (tapped the left bearing about ever so slightly) in order to continue with assembly. So I am causing the issue with the axle torque putting inward pressure on the inner racers. But I did this in order to avoid the spacer putting outward pressure on the inner racers. Maybe I'm wrong about all this. Don't know.
Anyhow, I have taken a ride and the ride seems perfect. Before the new bearings, I use to have just a little wiggle when I let go the handle bars, or even with my hands lightly on the handlebars, on light deceleration. Now that is gone. Thanks for all the info from everyone.