Originally Posted by EB3551
Hey GBDude,
What do you think happened here? I soaked my favorite SunTour freewheel in a solution of Performance bio-degradable parts cleaner and water, let it dry out for a day or so, then oiled it with Phil's Tenacious Oil, same I have done for years. This time, the clicking stopped. The freewheel spins like silk, but doesn't make a sound. Spooky.
Could I do damage to it by riding it? Can it do damage to me by failing in some way while I'm riding?
EB
I've noticed the same with a freshly oiled freehub - very quiet and smooth (although I can hear a slight ticking). After a ride or two, the the ticking returns louder.
I highly doubt any damage, assuming the ratchet pawls are engaging. Phil's T-oil seems to be the standard oil for freehub/freewheel use. It's not so thick as to prevent the pawls from engaging. Some say grease in cold weather prevents proper engagement.