Hello, long time lurker and learner from a wealth of information! First time poster.

I have a 1986 Schwinn High Sierra that I'm refurbishing. The Sanshin hubs got new cartridge bearings but I'm having concerns about the six speed freewheel hub's axle strength. The bike's intended purpose will be an S24O all rounder, and will see some trail use. I'm not going to flog the bike, but I have bent a freewheel axle before...

A machinist friend suggested machining a new axle out of 17-4 ph stainless, which he claims will be twice of strong (at least) as the current chromoly axle. Cost will be probably about $10.

Anyone have any experience with 17-4 PH or the like? I figure if nothing else, I can keep the original as a spare.

(And I know freehubs are stronger, I just would like to use this cool old hub.)

Thanks!