Wayward handling

[DavidMantle]

First noticed last week a wandering effect in the handling when out with my wife. Had a good look this morning and it looks like my rear wheel bearing is U/S. Since I have an R1100RT and the bearing is part of the rear drive assembly I am wondering how difficult is it to replace?

[dirtrider]

First noticed last week a wandering effect in the handling when out with my wife. Had a good look this morning and it looks like my rear wheel bearing is U/S. Since I have an R1100RT and the bearing is part of the rear drive assembly I am wondering how difficult is it to replace?

 

Morning DavidMantle

 

When you say wheel bearing I assume that your are referring to the final drive L/H crown bearing?

 

If so, then the actual bearing replacement is not too difficult BUT the proper measurements & shimming of the new crown bearing takes some measuring tools & talent. (BMW manual calls for special tools so a work around is needed)

 

The replacement & shimming can be done with the drive still attached to the swing arm with only the drive cover unbolted & removed.

 

The above assumes ONLY the L/H crown bearing is bad-- if other internal bearings, or the pinion bearings, are also bad then it becomes much more complicated.

 

[DavidMantle]

Just bought, via Fleabay, a fresh low milage drive unit. Hopefully should be good to go when I receive it. My intentions would be to replace mine with this purchased unit then overhaul at my leisure the one taken off. If all being well I will change back to my original assembly with the sure and safe knowledge that I shall have no more trouble. Providing the bought unit is good enough I hope to sell it on, even at a loss, in order to recover some costs.

[Lowndes]

DavidMantle,

 

Good idea on the fleabay FD unit!!

 

Per what DirtRider said about "tools and talent", you might consider having the original unit completely refurb/rebuilt by someone with the expertise, and "T&T", now that you have some time to get it done and not miss the riding season. Shimming that pinion gear and bearings correctly requires a lot more expertise, experience, AND tools than most other repairs.

 

More info on this FD here: BMW FD article by Anton L.

 

I have seen several names mentioned here but don't recall them. Maybe someone here can recommend an FD expert.

Edited July 25, 2017 by Lowndes

[DavidMantle]

That is my intention - to refurb it. I used to refurb differentials when I was in the Army, many moons ago, so am not fazed by the prospect. Only asked because this is a new departure. If push comes to shove I could leave it at the dealers and get them to shim it for me.

 

Edited July 26, 2017 by DavidMantle

[njl4]

Good afternoon David,

 

Don't forget to inspect the pivot bearings in the swing arm. Replace them if your not sure. Part# 33172311729

Edited July 26, 2017 by njl4