Wheel Removal

I consider myself fairly knowledgeable when it comes to working on my bikes.  But, this has got me stumped.  I want to remove the wheels so I can have some new tires mounted.  To me it seems like a pretty straightforward job.  But, for some reason the axle nut for the front wheel will not break loose.  This is my first attempt at removing the wheels off a Valkyrie.  So, I’m going about it as per the Clymers service manual.  Remove the calipers, loosen the pinch bolts on the right fork only, and then loosen the axle nut with a 22mm wrench (I’m using a good quality Craftsman wrench and a rubber mallet).  No go….It won’t budge.  In fact, it’s actually in the early stages of rounding off the head.  Am I missing something here?  Please help.  

Thanks in advance

Michael

P.S.  I did notice when I removed the brake calipers that the 12mm bolts had a small quantity of locktite in the threads.  Is this supposed to be there?  Or, did some idiot install the last set of tires?  If so, this could explain some things.          
:poddy:

[Valker]

I'd bet they used LokTite. What looks like the front axle nut, isn't. That is a bolt that threads into the front axle. I have never had a problem with mine coming loose as it should-so I suspect a Doofus. I just checked mine and the threads are normal-"righty tighty, lefty loosey". You might try a bit of heat with a heat gun or at least a hair dryer. I wish you luck-sorry we're not closer together for some help.

[Valker]

When you remove the rear wheel, most manuals call for dropping the exhaust-I never do. If you unhook the shocks, you can raise the rear wheel enough to slide out the axle OVER the exhaust. Be sure to completely remove the rear caliper from the swing arm or it will get hung up. Also-be sure to lube the splines on the rear hub. I use Amsoil 2000 synthetic grease, but Honda recommends high moly paste.  I have 62K miles on mine.

Finally got it off!!  Ended up using a five pound iron dumbel as a hammer.  Even then, it was still stubborn.  Eventually it broke loose.  No loktite in the threads.  Apparently, it was just frozen.  Maybe from being over tightened.  Who knows?  Need a new bolt, though.  The head is pretty chewed up.  Now on to the rear wheel.

Thanks for the responses

Michael

I am having the same problem getting my front wheel off.  Glad to hear its not just me.  Haven't these mechanics ever heard of a torque wrench.