Simon C
08-19-07, 12:04 AM
So I am trying to remove the Suntour 4 Prong and the tool that is recommended (Park FR-3) does not seem to fit properly. Any Advice?
Bicycle Mechanics - Suntour 4 Prong Freewheel
Bikeforums.net is a forum about nothing but bikes. Our community can help you find information about hard-to-find and localized information like bicycle tours, specialties like where in your area to have your recumbent bike serviced, or what are the best bicycle tires and seats for the activities you use your bike for.View Full Version : Suntour 4 Prong Freewheel
Simon C
08-19-07, 12:10 AM
OH...and I do not have access to a vice. :(
Retro Grouch
08-19-07, 07:10 AM
1. FR-3 is the right tool. Don't expect it to completely bottom into the freewheel.
2. After fitting the tool into your freewheel, install the quick release just a little loosely to hold the tool in place. This is important or you'll ruin your new FR-3 tool.
3. Using a big (12" or 15") adjustible wrench, hold the wheel vertically in front of you and push downward on the wrench with your right hand. Freewheels tighten themselves every time that you pedal up a hill so it'll be on pretty tight.
4. Be sure to grease the hub threads before reinstalling your freewheel.
5. Good luck! Removing old freewheels is always an adventure.
2. After fitting the tool into your freewheel, install the quick release just a little loosely to hold the tool in place. This is important or you'll ruin your new FR-3 tool.
3. Using a big (12" or 15") adjustible wrench, hold the wheel vertically in front of you and push downward on the wrench with your right hand. Freewheels tighten themselves every time that you pedal up a hill so it'll be on pretty tight.
4. Be sure to grease the hub threads before reinstalling your freewheel.
5. Good luck! Removing old freewheels is always an adventure.
Bushman
08-19-07, 10:24 AM
^ +1 o what RetroGrouch said. If its too difficult to remove the freewheel, slide a length of ABS or steel pipe over the full length of the wrench handle, to give you a bit extra leverage in "cracking" the freewheel free. Otherwise try to find a vice for the tool (still use the QR to hold the tool in place) and use the wheel as the lever.
tellyho
08-20-07, 07:08 AM
You'll need to use the vice trick, IMHO. You need the lever arm of the wheel itself to crack that thing free. You may need to take the axle spacer off to get the tool fully on (in my experience). Lock it on with the QR skewer and honk on it in the vice. Remember to take the skewer out after you've loosened the freewheel and before you try to spin it off. You'll be fighting the QR skewer otherwise.