Bicycle Mechanics - Problem with Raleigh M-30

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Razorback
06-14-08, 09:35 PM
A friend of mine moved and left a bunch of stuff in my garage and this bike was part of it. He's never returned for it, so I figure I've got a new bike. Right now I ride a Mongoose Paver to work and back and I really like the Raleigh. Here's the problem: When I try to pedal forward, the pedals just spin as if I were pedaling it backward. Why would that happen? Bad bearings? I'd really like to fix this bike and ride it along with my Mongoose. I'll post pics eventually, but right now I can't.
Jared

ruppster
06-15-08, 04:32 AM
It sounds like the pawls are stuck in the freewheel (gear cluster). If I remeber correctly, those are 7 speed freewheel bikes. Spray alot of WD40 or similiar on/in it & bang it around a bit, they may come loose. Worst case is you may have to buy a new freewheel, your local bike shop (LBS) probably has one for around $20.
roccobike
06-15-08, 08:59 AM
After you spray it with WD-40 as explained above, be sure to lube it with oil. I use 20 weight. WE-40 is not a lubricant, but it is a good solvent for your application.

Razorback
06-15-08, 01:50 PM
Do I need to take the gears off when I do this or can I leave them on the bike? And how, exactly, do I "bang" them around? Thanks.
Jared
ruppster
06-15-08, 04:48 PM
Take the wheel off, douse it liberally, bounce the wheel with the tire on it on the sidewalk. You can even tap (gently) the end of the smallest gear with a small hammer. Like roccobike said, don't forget a bit of regular oil when you are done.