Bicycle Mechanics - Which freewheel removal tool do I need?

I'm working on overhauling a 70s Motobécane and I need to remove the cogs from the rear wheel to clean out the hub. Anyway, this is my first time doing most of these things, so I'm trying to catch up looking at some of the great websites people here have pointed me to.

So basically, I need to know I guess which tool I need:

http://robballou.com/projects/moto/IMG_7366.jpg

To me, this looks like I need the two prong tool (FR-2?), but I could be wrong so I thought I would ask first :)

Also do I need a chain whip? I assume I need the freewheel wrench. Anything else? Also, any recommendations on places to order these tools online?

Thanks again for all the help!

You won't need a chainwhip.

You might want to send your query and pic to Park Tools. Most likely, they'll know.

That's a Suntour 2 prong. You're on the right track.

Like what previous posters have said, Park does makes a 2 prong freewheel removal tool. I can't recall the model number.

Couple of tips:

1- Before attempting to remove the freewheel, re-insert the quick release so it holds the freewheel removal tool in place. This will prevent tool slippage and possible injury to your lower leg/feet/etc.

2- You don't need to take the cogs apart with a chain whipp. Just soak the whole freewheel in cleaner solution. If you have a compressor, blow it out. Or, just let it dry before squirting oil in it.

3- Don't ever take the freewheel apart. All the tiny ballbearings will fall off... big mess.

Well, that's my .02 cents.

Good luck.

PS. Check out the Classic and Vintage forum.

That's a Suntour 2 prong. You're on the right track.


+1.....and you're right, you need the FR-2. Here's a link to Nashbar's freewheel tool selection:

http://www.nashbar.com/profile.cfm?category=99&subcategory=1234&brand=&sku=2664&storetype=&estoreid=&pagename=Shop%20by%20Subcat%3A%20Cassette%2FChain%2FFreewheel

Couple of tips:

1- Before attempting to remove the freewheel, re-insert the quick release so it holds the freewheel removal tool in place. This will prevent tool slippage and possible injury to your lower leg/feet/etc.

3- Don't ever take the freewheel apart. All the tiny ballbearings will fall off... big mess.
.


Great advice- I've been there and done that.

Thanks everyone for the tips! I mostly want to overhaul the hub (this one more than the front feels stiff) and clean out the cogs. Would dish soap work for the cogs or should I get a cleaning solution?

Thanks everyone for the tips! I mostly want to overhaul the hub (this one more than the front feels stiff) and clean out the cogs. Would dish soap work for the cogs or should I get a cleaning solution?

I like to soak old freewheels in a bath of mineral spirits for a day or two, to let it soften up the gunk on the cogs and also to let it dissolve the old lube inside the freewheel mechanism. An old toothbrush after the soaking will do a great job of finishing up the cogs, and spinning and agitating the freewheel in the solvent bath will help flush out the old gritty gunk inside. Then I let it sit and dry for another day or two. Finally, drip motor oil or other similar lube into and around the freewheel as you spin it, and you'll hear it come back to life as the fresh lube makes its way inside. Heck, just typing this makes me want to go down to my basement and find an old freewheel to clean up. Seriously. :D Just make sure you use the mineral spirits in a well ventilated area-

Would dish soap work for the cogs or should I get a cleaning solution?

Ooohh, careful, there! Almost sounds like "which lube is the best". Ask that & it'll get ugly here.... ;)

I use Simple Green followed by HOT water rinse (which speeds drying, too).

While we're on topic, any suggestions for removing a recalcitrant freewheel? I've done the bench vise trick, the tool is skewered on, and I've tried 25" breaker bar with a hammer, all to no avail. I know I can remove by destruction (not planning on reusing the freewheel), but do I have other options?