Clunking rear wheel
03-07-16, 06:00 PM
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Clunking rear wheel
Ok got a quick question. I have a mid 80's Raleigh Capri. The rear wheel makes a clunking noise when I spin it. The bearings aren't loose. Any ideas? I have not takin apart the rear axel. Possible flat bearings?
03-07-16, 08:38 PM
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It could be the axle and bearings or it could be the cassette body. Ain't no way to tell without taking the hub apart. If that hub hasn't been serviced in 30 years, it's been running on borrowed time anyway. If you don't know how, don't have the tools, and don't particularly want to learn, take it to somebody who does. Shops generally charge $35-50 plus parts.
If you are inclined to learn, the Park Tools web site has a section on hub overhauls.
If you are inclined to learn, the Park Tools web site has a section on hub overhauls.
03-07-16, 10:05 PM
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Bearings tend to make larger noises when too tight then when loose. Agreed that a 30 year old hub that likely hasn't seen any service is already suspect. The actual balls don't usually get "flat", much more common are the rolling surfaces (cup and cone) which get pitted or themselves cracked. Only with a tear down will real answers be known. We aren't there to do this. Andy.
03-07-16, 10:24 PM
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Well I missed the most obvious think. The rim was slightly warped and kept hitting the brake pad. Duh! Trued the rim and pulled the hub down for a re-grease. All quiet now.
