N380 Hub
 

Greetings,

I got a N380 hub that I am trying to build a wheel for it, the official website provided a spoke length calculator so I input the specs of my rim erd, number of holes..etc and came up with 236.xx mm spoke length, I went ahead and ordered 237mm but when I built the wheel and tightened the spokes to the max they are still loose, I tried another website to calculate the spoke length and the result was 234mm!

Can I cut the spokes and extend the thread with re-threading tool or just buy shorter spokes?

Yes, one can shorten a spoke various ways and can chase/rethread the new end. Best done with a proper tool like a Phil as the control of both processes is good. But many a spoke has been cut with pliers and chased/extended threads with a Hozan or Cyclo roller.

With the Phil cutter I find about 3 mm is the least I like to cut a spoke down by. Much less and the nub can jam in the machine, that's when having a bench grinder is nice.

But before any non reversable action is taken I would measure the hub and rim directly and recalculate just to be sure. Andy

Might be better to just pay any re-stocking fee and get the correct length. Assuming you just bought these spokes.

I went ahead and ordered another set of spokes, I will definitely invest in a basic retreading tool for future projects, I still have lot of homework to do regarding fitting the right size chain, installing the hub sprocket and shifting mechanism.

Make sure you are also spoking them correctly. Typically hubs like that can only be done 1 or 2 cross as the flanges are too big for 3 cross. I know some wheel builders who have tried this and wasted a lot of time.

If you have a good way to cut and roll threads go for it if they are straight gauge spokes not a problem. However getting the right length might just be worth it and save the trouble.

You are correct, the manufacturer recommendation for 26" wheel is 2 cross pattern and that is what I did, I can't wait until I get the new spokes and build this wheel.