I got a dud hub on my last wheel build. The spokes have been great, rim has stayed true, but the hub gave me nothing but problems. The cassette started spinning both ways and I understand this means my hub needs replacing. The main use of the wheel is gravel touring and commuting, so it gets a lot of abuse.
SO – would you recommend hiring a mechanic to rebuild the wheel, or should I just buy a new wheel package? Can you recommend any particular deals? I’m mainly looking for the best value option, as I don’t expect this to be a “forever” bike.
by jollyjogggers
11 Comments
> The cassette started spinning both ways and I understand this means my hub needs replacing
Worst case the freehub needs to be changed, not the entire hub. Or the freehub could just need cleaning and lubrication. Depending on what model it is it can be a fairly simple job, or require special tools.
Wether this is worth it also depends on the state of the rest of the wheel. Are the brake surfaces worn? Are the bearings and races worn?
Best value might be to just buy another wheel. Velomine had deals recently. To bad the meowcatnic can’t fix it.
Is that a Shimano hub? Replacement freehub is like $20.
Never hurts to visit your local bike coop 🙂
First question should be: can you buy a replacement freehub for THAT hub? If so, start there.
Free hub body replacement is pretty easy, most of the time. Look for identifying marks on your hub and try to find the freehub. You might even be able to score a warranty replacement. I had a freehub body go and I found it after some digging and got two for safe keeping
You probably just need to clean out the grease and replace with freehub oil.
If you decide to buy new the close out bombers are a good deal right now https://ridehifi.com/demo-closeout-wheels/?add-to-cart=6859
Nice kitty
The cat can’t fix it? Useless. Redoing a wheel should cost around $100. (I just had a wheel rebuilt). It’s probably worth it if it’s a decent wheel set.
Freehub bodies are available separately from the hub.
Some years they were removable from the hub with a 10MM hex key; you might be lucky.
Whether it makes sense depends on the wear levels of the rest of the hub and the rims.
You could also keep this as a spare wheel.
Take it to a shop and see if they can replace the freehub body for you. If they can’t, then buy a new wheel.