Mountain Biking - Help Needed - Hub not engaging

Hi,

I have a bike, about 7 years old. Just bought it, used, when i pedal, sometimes, usually when in the top rear cog, the power does not engage right away. The cranks spin without resistance for about 1/4 rotation, and then something engages with a bit of a "thunk" noise, and then my pedal power works at the rear wheel.

The cranks/bottom bracket and chain are all new. I was wondering is this is a problem with my hub or cassette, should I have them replaced. What would I be looking at for cost, would it be better to buy the $100 wheelsets off ebay?

Thanks

Your freehub is probably filled with old thick contaminated grease. Call around the shops and see if any of them have a "Freehub Buddy" tool. It's a special tool that injects grease into a freehub. You'll have to have the shop remove your cassette and your freehub, soak it in degreaser, then inject it with new grease.

That, or have them order you a new freehub!

What it will cost you in labor, you might as well just buy a new one!

Me? I own my own Freehub buddy and my labor is free (kinda)

Come over, bring a six pack of good micro brews and I'll show you how to do it!

Hi,

Thank you for that information, If I buy a new one, will I have to relace the wheel/spokes or does this jsut fit inside, or would it be worth buying at new wheelset off EBAY for $100.

Thanks

The freehub on your wheel is replaceable . If the wheel is sound then its worthwhile.
Instructions can be found at
http://www.parktool.com/repair_help/howfix_freehub.shtml

A new freehub should be about $25 to $30 installed. You need special tool though, so take it to a reputable shop in town.

I'd follow the park tool instructions that MichaelW posted. Make sure you clean the freehub really good in some sort of solvent. I've done this and it usually works.