Originally Posted by chris667

That's a really patronising answer. Unhelpful too. This is a forum for people who want to learn about bike repair. I think you should keep your opinions about someone's ability to learn about things to yourself.

To OP - I'll answer your questions in the order you asked them.

First, it is pretty common to use various designs of cage for bearings. It's sometimes because it's cheaper, but sometimes done because it makes assembly easier. Either way, that isn't an uncommon design for a freewheel.

Second, removal really depends what you want to do with the freewheel.

There will be a tool to remove it that you probably won't need again. If you rebuild the frewheel now you've taken it apart and cleaned it but want to use it on another bike, best to go to a shop. If you're finished with it, you can destructively remove a threaded freewheel with a cold chisel or other solid metal bar - I've used old bb spindles in the past.

1. Hold the hub in a vice by the other end of its axle.
2. Tap sharply against the spline sideways on to turn it anticlockwise. You will loosen it with a few goes, then unscrew by hand. Once it goes, it will move easily.
3. Remember - always grease the threads and be very careful when you put your freewheel back on. It's a fine thread and if you crossthread it the hub is toast.

Incidentally, if you find your freweel tool is getting damaged, you're probably mishandling it. Use the axle nut or qr to keep the tool firm and square on the hub and use a vice to keep the wheel steady.