Front Axle Removal

[Zac]

A good place to try for large hex driver sockets is McMaster-Carr - www.mcmaster.com

I got my 19mm hex driver from them for under $10, and it was a good USA made one.

-z.

[jp233]

use a 9/16" spark plug socket (the big size one normally used for lawnmowers and 2strokes), one that has the hex pattern on it. flip the socket over and use the other side of it.

[dylanfan53]

Find a coupling nut that size at your local hardware store . . . works great . . . probably about $4.00.

Hey BMGracing, they're not listening are they!
Guys, go to Home Depot or your local hardware store.  Go to the threaded rod section and buy the correct size coupler. You know, the kind with six sides threaded internally (which you won't care about for this purpose).
My '99 R6 takes about 3/4" (19mm) flat to flat.  Stick one end in a 3/4 socket and you're done.  In a pinch you can use a crescent wrench to turn it.
I don't have a '04 GSXR600 (small wonder, says my wife) but my '03 GSXR1000 takes a 15/16" (otherwise known as 15 teenies) coupler with a (surprise!) 15/16" socket.
If you don't need the socket you can spot weld the coupler to the socket so you don't have to fish around for both things when you need them.
Your cost = $2-$3.  You can send the extra money to me.  I'll see that BMGracing gets his share for first mentioning it. ;)
Next week...how to make your own tool box cozies to brighten your work area and bring a touch of cheer to the trailer. ;D

[jenkins]

Its 24 mm....600, 750, 1000, from 2002 up.

By the way, its not a nut that holds the axle in...It IS the axle....

I have a Snap-on one and a circuit-1 one..
The Snap-on was $25.00
The Circuit-1 was $18.00, but also has a 19 mm on the other side for the Yamahas..

There is a new Circuit-1 out that has a 24 mm allen for the Kawi's as well....