Removing the freewheel to overhaul the rear wheel
28/07/10 11:47 Filed in: Cycling
Removing freewheels can be difficult, and I don’t have a rigid enough vise to use that method. This is a technique I’ve used which doesn’t require expensive tools or the help of a friend to steady the wheel while you use a breaker bar. As usual, insert the freewheel puller and keep it tight with the quick release, minus the springs. Place the wheel perpendicular to something immobile, so that you can still stand beside it and somewhat behind it. Holding the top of the wheel with both hands to steady it, use a 1” wrench (available at auto parts stores, fits on the Park freewheel pullers) to loosen the freewheel by pushing down on it with one foot, as if you’re pedaling. Whatever the wheel is pushing against will keep it from trying to roll with the force you’re applying.
In this shot, I’m using our printing press to keep the wheel from moving.
In this shot, I’m using our printing press to keep the wheel from moving.