the back brake on my 2002 fatboy howls most of the time i use it, sometimes it dont. the disc and pads look ok but i havnt took them apart yet. i think  i have just answered my own question there. how big a job is it to change the pads/ remove the caliper? i still havnt got a bike lift yet, do i need one for that job?

 

 

Do you have a manual for your bike?  If not here is the link to download what you require.  The job is easy enough and you don't need a bike lift for that job. www.dropbox.com/sh/khz8e3n2ehnkn3h/J3c_VpzN30 

I just had a look and you don't need a lift just to change the pads over. But if you intend to remove the caliper then that requires removal of the axle and then the bike will need to be on a lift. You also need a 1/4" ring spanner to remove the pad retaining pins in the caliper. It has a step by step guide in the manual. If you are rplacing the pads maybe go to lyndall pads as they don't make a lot of dust and don't squeal. Cost more than the OEM ones but are better stopping the bike...

i tried that link aj and i could see the index and nothing else. i downloaded a manual and also boght a hard copy from ebay so i think i might just have to bite the bullet and get my hands dirty. i was hoping someone could explain why the back brake howls when the brake works fine. the old guys used to put a thin piece of aluminium behind the pad to stop the noise but ive never tried that. the same thing happened in my car when i changed the pads , they squeeled like a bastard.  i might try some neversieze  or similar stuff on the back of the pad.

ok so your pads are squealing. probably your pads have glazed over, which is an easy fix. Have look and let us know.

Not sure if the 2002 Fatboy rear brake caliper is setup the same as the later model Fatboy''s

If it has the same setup you dont need to take the rear axle out, just undo the 2 bolts which hold the caliper onto the bracket then remove the brake pads, very easy job