Topic: Wheel doesn't spin when fork bolts tightened

[Bonz55]

Almost done doing my first wheel swap.

The next problem I ran into was getting the wheel to spit freely once mounted again. It seems like it fits into the brake pad and it spins freely when suspended from the fork with loose bolts... But when I tighten the fork bolts, it barely spins at all.

I assume it's a brake pad issue. It spins freely when held by the axle by hand. The speedo is mounted securely I think.

I think it's rubbing against the brake pad. I've read about this of course but nothing involving tightening of the bolts like this. Like the wheel is too high or something.

Any suggestions?

This forum is awesome btw. One of the most helpful I've ever been a part of. Thanks ahead of time.

[harisuluv]

Well you need to troubleshoot.

Think it's the brake pad?  Remove the caliper, and then evaluate.

[flybox1]

Well you need to troubleshoot.

Think it's the brake pad?  Remove the caliper, and then evaluate.

+1... or just completely remove the caliper arm set screw to alleviate any sideways pressure on the rotor.
If its not the pads binding the rotor.....did you recently install new bearings?  Get them seated properly?

[Bonz55]

Thanks!

If the problem is the bearings, wouldn't the wheel also turn poorly when held by the axle? The fact that it turns ok when held or on loose forks but poorly with tightened forks makes me think it might not be the bearings.

About to take another crack at it

[flybox1]

If the bearings are not seated properly, the bearing stack is compressed when the wheel bolts and axle are tightened, preventing free spin.

[Bonz55]

Ok thanks.

Is there a way I can tell quickly if they are seated properly?

[flybox1]

Ok thanks.

Is there a way I can tell quickly if they are seated properly?

stick your finger in and see how loose the inner spacer is.  it should be snug, but movable and not so loose it rattles around in there.

Post up a picture of both sides

[Bonz55]

The spacer inside the bearings is tight, but I can move it a bit with small pressure from a screw driver or my finger. It does not move on its own between the bearings.

I removed the caliper and installed the front wheel. It seems to spin freely and easily without the caliper installed... Which obviously leads me to believe it's the caliper.

I feel like pad A is somewhat loose, but is it supposed to be? Attached is a photo of the caliper pads. Should I tear this thing apart you think, or is it more likely that the pad was sticking due to a poor installing job on my part?

[Bonz55]

Video

https://sohc4-forum-attachments.s3.amazonaws.com/trim.68A7AECC-73BD-4348-8711-D30BE452DBA8.MOV

[flybox1]

Pull the piston.  check it for pitting.  replace if needed.
Always a good idea to install a new piston ring ($6)
Parts like this can save your life.  Dont skimp.

[Bonz55]

Okay I'll do that. Thank you.

I'm also curious.... When looking at the bike from the front, it almost appears as if the wheel is pointing to the left in relation to fork center. This would obviously cause the disc to rub on the caliper when installed so maybe that's the problem?

Scratching my head a bit trying to figure out how to straighten it out or if I'm seeing things

[flybox1]

Got all the correct spacers on the axle stack?
Remember there needs to be room for the rotor there on the left side.

The caliper is adjustable.  Look for the lock-screw/spring adjustment in the middle of the caliper arm.

[Bonz55]

Yup. I should have the correct spacers.

I will try to reinstall the caliper and adjust with the spring screw a bit.

One question I can't find clarification in the shop Manuel however is whether or not I have this disc on upside down. Right now.... The saucer or bowl shape is facing outwards. It doesn't need to be facing inwards, correct?

Doesn't specify or show pics in the shop Manuel. Below is a photo of how it is currently installed

[flybox1]

Looks correct, and your rotor carrier is fuzzy