I thought I knew a lot about Sturmey Archer 3 speeds. And I probably do, but hanging around here, you always learn something. I never thought about it but without the indicator chain connected the key is free to move and get into trouble. I never knew that, but it makes perfect sense.

There are a few good YouTube video's on overhauling an AW three speed hub. I don't think I have seen a bad video of overhauling an Sturmey Archer three speed. They are fairly simple to rebuild. Good luck and let us know how it goes [MENTION=302303]mroll[/MENTION] . You will become another expert or at least have the full confidence that you can do it after the job is complete.