Remove A Bike Freewheel

Introduction

An old style screw-on bike freewheel may need to be removed to service the hub bearing, to fit a new spoke on the right side of the hub or because the cogs, or the freewheel mechanism are worn out.

Step 1

Tools

Grabbing the cogs is no good as you they spin on the bike freewheel without turning the central mechanism that is screwed on the hub shell. You need a special key to fit into notches or splines on the bike freewheel to turn it.

Step 2

Remove

Remove the rearwheel from the bike to gain access to the bike freewheel.

Step 3

Take out the quick-release skewer or remove the axle-nut on the drive side.

Step 4

Slide the freewheel-remover onto the axle and into the notches or splines on the bike freewheel.

Step 5

Replace the nut or the skewer to lock the key in place.

Step 6

Use a long adjustable spanner to turn the key anti-clockwise.

Step 7

Once the bike freewheel is moving remove the skewer or nut to allow it to unscrew all the way.

Step 8

If you have a bench vice you can clamp the key in it, drop the wheel gently onto the key then turn the wheel to unscrew the bike freewheel.

Remove A Bike Freewheel

Introduction

Step 1

Tools

Step 2

Remove

Step 3

Step 4

Step 5

Step 6

Step 7

Step 8

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