[otterbob]

i removed my rear tire to install a new chrome belt cover and a chrome pulley cover. my question is does it particually matter wich way the axle is put in. it is like a big bolt with a castle nut on the other end. reason i ask is because the way it is now the bolt head is on the exhaust side and i have to drop the exhaust to pull the axle out. if it was the other way i wouldnt have to bother with screwin with the exhaust. also, how do you repack the rear tire axle bearings since i have it off?

 

[harleyhog]

First of all, what bike you got? year? (bearings)

The axle is in the way its in because, if it ever starts to spin with the wheel, it'll tighten up. Not work loose and have your back wheel pass you down the road!
Besides the Split pin going through the castle nut 'shouldn't' let this happen anyway.

 

[GR8FUL]

Softtail axle bolt can go either way ( dealer info). Not sure about the rest.