Helicomatic hub/axle issue
 

Hi I have a 1984 Trek 560 that I am “refreshing.” There seems to be something inside the hole through the axle preventing me from inserting the quick release skewer through it. When I took the bike apart several years ago I removed the skewer from the wheel so I know it was clean at some point. I recently remove the axle from the hub to clean and grease the bearings. I didn’t see any cracks in the axle suggesting it might be broken.

i have tried to insert a screwdriver into the axle hole to remove the obstruction. It moved partway but then became “.stuck” and wouldn’t move further with tapping from a rubber mallet.

Questions:

1. Whatever is stuck in there is lodged pretty well. I soaked with penetrating oil and no luck. Could i attempt to use an electric drill to drill out whatever is stuck in there?

2. If I can’t remove it i will need to buy a new axle. The nuts, washers and cones can be transferred to the new axle. However where can I find a French threaded rear axle that might fit? I want to use the existing cones because the hub uses 5/32 bearings and most replacement helicomatic axles use 1/4 bearings. So I would like to just buy a French threaded axle. Do you know where I could find one?

Thanks everyone!

I've got a few helicomatics, and none of them use 1/4 inch bearings. The early rear hubs all use the 5/32 bearings. The fronts use 3/16. The later 700 pro rear hubs use 3/16 as well and have improved cones and labrynth seals.
You will hear that the older rear hubs are junk and not to bother with them.

I have a couple of hubs here that I can send you for the cost of postage and you will have plenty of spare parts. PM me... Smiles, MH

I believe that the 5/32 bearings in the helicomatics hubs should be grade 25 or better.
If you find damage to the cones, replace them. More frequent servicing of these hubs is a good idea. It doesn't take much grit to chew up a cone.

If you need NOS and freshly serviced Helicomatic freewheels, I have you covered. I also have spare loose sprockets.

Is the skewer straight? A bent skewer might not go through the axle unless pushed hard.

Maybe a mud dauber nest in there?

A drill will show you what's in there, or maybe just different diameter rods, might get one to break through.

The WD40 would prevent the mud from being softened with water.