jgedwa

Going to a triple is a good reason to swap parts. You can swap that out without too much trouble.

There are so-called "mega range" freewheels out there.

You are right that freewheel hubs put more assymetrical stress on the axle than cassette hubs. I am very much a retro-grouch, but I will admit that the in-board bearing on freewheel hubs was a bad design that was dramtically improved in cassette hubs. I think, however, that the old design is good enough for the way lots of people ride. If you are are heavy, or if you are a heavy rider (not the same thing), or if you do lots of long touring, then I would say do it. If these things are not true, then it might be unnecessary.

Not trying to talk you out of anything, I know that playing with the accoutrements is part of the fun of any hobby.

jim