Can you fix a freewheel?

Question

I took the freewheel off of my old wheel to put on a different wheel, but now the bearings inside are loose and rattle around if you shake the freewheel. Can I take apart the freewheel, clean & repack the bearings, and put it back together? Also, it was very hard to get off of the hub (I had to use an impact wrench!) Is that normal? Tight is one thing, but having to use air tools? Thanks.

Answer 1

I've taken a few freewheels apart, and it just isn't worth the effort. Buy a new one. Yes they can be screwed on pretty tight. You don't need an air wrench if you have a long-handled wrench. I've seen people put the freewheel remover tool face-up in a vice, put the freewheel onto the tool, then turn the wheel. You can get a lot of leverage that way.

Answer 2

Freewheels are cheap to replace, i got a 16 tooth for about £4 ($7). Its better to replace it with a new one as it will last longer and you won't have to take it off the other wheel, this is good as they are so hard to get off! The reason for this is when your pedling your tightening the freewheel to the hub. Kind of like geting a spanner and a nut and jumping on the spanner to tighten the nut, so it is normal to have a really tight freewheel.