Replacing a freehub body on a hub may seem daunting to someone who isn’t a bike mechanic, but it’s actually quite simple. As long as you’re willing to take the time to read through and understand the instructions, you can complete this job in no time.
The freehub is a vital part of the bicycle wheel. It’s a small component which houses the cassette, sprockets and other parts which engage with the rear wheel in order to get your bicycle rolling. In most cases, when a bicycle is being ridden over rough terrain, the cassette and sprockets will wear out first and need to be replaced. But if the freehub gets damaged due to riding in mud or because it’s been exposed to water for too long, then it may need to be replaced as well. In this guide, we’ll show you how to replace your freehub body and get your bicycle rolling again.
What You’ll Need
To replace the freehub body you’ll need the following items:
• New Freehub: Choose a freehub body which is compatible with your bike.
• Chain Whip: A chain whip is a specialty tool which is used for removing the cassette.
• Lockring Tool: You’ll need a dedicated lockring tool to securely tighten the cassette to the new freehub.
• Cassette Lockring: This will need to be taken to your local bicycle shop to order the correct part.
• Grease: To ensure your freehub is properly lubricated before you start riding again.
Steps to Replace Your Freehub
1. Start by flipping your bike over and taking off the rear wheel. You’ll need to disengage the rear axle in order to remove the wheel.
2. Next, use the chain whip to remove the cassette. You should place the chain whip around the largest sprocket while using a wrench to loosen the lockring. Once the cassette is loose, you can remove it by pulling it away from the freehub.
3. Now remove the lockring and the dustcover from the freehub. Make sure to keep the dustcover so that you can re-install it with the new freehub body.
4. To remove the freehub body, begin by sticking a pry tool underneath it. Carefully lift the freehub body out of the hub.
5. Next, use the appropriate sized Allen tool to unscrew the axle. This will allow the old freehub body to be removed completely.
6. Now select the correct size replacement freehub body for your wheel. Place the new freehub body into the hub and use the Allen tool to securely tighten the axle.
7. Once the freehub is tightened, use a lockring tool to secure the cassette to the freehub. Make sure to apply a light film of grease to the threads of the lockring before you install it.
8. Put the dustcover onto the freehub and use a pry tool to press it into place.
9. Finally, reinstall the rear wheel and axle. Make sure to secure the wheel before taking your bike out for a ride.
Conclusion
Replacing your freehub body can be a daunting job if you’re not a bike mechanic, but with the right tools and an understanding of the changes you’re making, it’s quite simple to do. As long as you take the time to carefully follow the instructions, you can easily get your bicycle rolling again in short order.