Tech tip - Dealing with Vibration and Corrosion

Loc Tite is a brand of thread sealant designed for the locking and securing of threaded fasteners.  In the service shop, Loc Tite is one of the essential products used by every technician for virtually every job. We all know that motorcycles vibrate – and some shake a lot.   Critical fasteners on even the newer Harleys must withstand an excessive amount of vibration and remain securely fastened.  We are able to achieve this in the shop by using products like Loc Tite and also paying close attention to the Factory's torque setting.  Proper torque specs are “set” using a torque wrench and are simply a measure of how tight to set each specific fastener.  Even for riders that work on their own bikes, Loc Tite should be part of the installation procedure.  Mirrors, highway & footpegs, saddlebag and docking hardware – they all needs a treatment of Loc Tite be ensure they don't fall off on the road. 

Loc Tite bonding fluids come in a variety of strengths; the color determines the application.

• RED
• One of the stronger bonding fluids.  Secures fasteners and requires the use of heat and sometimes air impact wrench to disassemble.  Used for fasteners that are not intended to come off again.
• GREEN
•  A unique securing compound that doesn't require the dis-assembly of the fastener to engage the threads and prevent loosening.  Its special wicking properties allow for the GREEN Loc Tite to work its way into the threads while the fastener is still secure..
• BLUE
• The more common bonding fluid, effectively secures fasteners preventing loosening. Requires use of normal hand tools to disassemble.  For use on fasteners that maybe required to come of again in the future.

Sometimes getting a bolt off or an axle out is the challenge.  Heat related corrosion can cause fasteners or pivot bolts and axles to “seize” up in the wheel or threads.  Products such as anti-seize lube prevent metals from “freezing up” due to excessive heat and corrosion.  Excessive pressuring washing may cause rust to develop and prevent an axle from coming out of the swing-arm.  A liberal application of anti seize to the axle will prevent the rust to build up and allow for an easy wheel removal at your next tire change.

Anti -Seize
Is a great lubricant used throughout the service shop.  Anti-Seize is a messy paste like grease that is applied to metal surfaces to prevent heat related galling and corrosion. It repels water and because it's thick, it won't break down and dissolve.  Exhaust bolts, spark plug and even brake pins and bolts often get anti-seize to allow for future removal and to prevent heat related galling.

Teflon, Moly Cable Lube
While the newer touring models use an internal wire throttle system, the majority of bikes on the road still operate using a cable and twist grip system.  Cables rarely fray or break unless they are being pushed and pulled without any lube.  A Teflon or moly based lube is a great way to not only ensure the smooth workings of your throttle mechanism, but it will also give your throttle an easy “no drag” twist.

Tri-Flo Teflon Spray Lubricant

Tri-Flo is a brand of premium penetrating lube that we use throughout the shop on moving parts to prevent sticking and and corrosion.  Kickstand springs, highway pegs, brake and clutch levers all need an occasional “shot of lube” to keep them working smoothly.  Unlike anti-seize, Tri-flo is an aresol and goes on clean, without a mess and maintains it's lube properties for a long time.  It is probably one of the best spray lubes you will find.


 

Tony D. & the Service Team at Wild Fire H-D