Originally Posted by
toughyreader
I have a front wheel with a 14 mm axle which is not a huge deal. But it is one more wrench I have to carry. So here is my question in two parts.
1. Can I use sealed bearings in place of the loose bearings that are in there now?
2. Can I swap my 14 mm axle to a 15 mm axle?
I'd file the rear axle nuts down to 14 mm instead. It's a 10 minute job with a vise and file, and if you're not happy with the results it's always possible to replace the axle nuts to get everything back to original.
Swapping from loose to cartridge bearings usually isn't doable. First it's the issue of compatibility between the cups and the bearings, the next is that to use the common type of cartridge bearing you've got to have an inner sleeve over the axle to support the inner race ot the bearing. Making one is one thing, but you have to be able to fit it as well. For a road hub with a slender spindle there often isn't enough room through the hub for that.