Motorcycle Repair: 76 FXE grinding at rear wheel, wheel seals, wheel bearings

Question
I had my rear tire changed at a rally and when I was leaving the rear wheel was making a metal to metal grinding noise. Since the mechs that changed the tire had already left I had no choice but to drive it home. I kept stopping to feel for heat around the axel and wheel but there was none. How can I track down this noise and also ...the best way to check to see if it may be in the bearings. Thanks so much.

Answer
Start by jacking the rear wheel up and spin the wheel and see if you can locate the sound. It could be the brake that is making the noise or the wheel bearings. Check to see if there are any marks or grinds on the rotor as well as check the brake shoes. To check the wheel bearings you have to remove the axle and disconnect the chain, then pull the wheel. Next, remove the wheel seals and remove the bearings. Clean them and check them for wear and see if they stick when you turn them
Good luck and happy riding
Mike