Method for removing or installing endless power transmitting element on a motorcycle assembly

A method for installing an endless power transmitting element to a rear axle assembly for a motorcycle having a pair of driven wheels, the method comprising:

• providing a carrier housing having a carrier structure and a pair of bearing caps;
• installing the endless power transmitting element about a differential assembly;
• mounting the differential assembly to the carrier structure such that the endless power transmitting element extends through an opening in the carrier structure;
• and
• coupling the bearing caps to the carrier structure.

A method for replacing an endless power transmitting element in a motorcycle having a rear axle assembly with a pair of driven wheels, the rear axle assembly comprising a carrier housing, a differential assembly and a pair of axle shafts, the carrier housing having a carrier structure and a pair of bearing caps, the differential assembly being received in the carrier structure, each of the shafts having a first end, which is drivingly coupled to the differential assembly, and a second, opposite end that is coupled to an associated one of the driven wheels, the method comprising:

• removing the bearing caps from the carrier structure;
• disengaging the shafts from the differential assembly;
• moving the differential assembly away from the carrier structure;
• mounting the endless power transmitting element about the differential assembly and through an opening in the carrier housing;
• replacing the bearing caps to the carrier structure;
• and
• re-engaging the shafts to the differential assembly.