Servicing Trek 400 hubs
 

About four months ago I got a Trek 400 that I love, it fits just right. I want to take good care of it, including replacing the spokes I ripped off when my bag strap got caught on the cassette/spokes. But I digress..

Trying to learn about this bike thing, I read about servicing hubs. The Maillard's on there spin real nice, and I want to keep them that way. I couldn't being to tell you what type of hub they are... any ideas? I believe this bike was made in the 80's. I apologize for the ambiguity.

I don't know exactly what model the front hub was, but it was of good quality. The rear hub may, or may not, be a Maillard Helicomatic hub. You might try the website vintagetreks.com to find out the exact info.

The 400 has a Maillard freewheel hub, not the Helicomatic model which is a good thing, imo

Take it to a shop and have them do it. It's not too hard to do but its not fun to do. Re-packing hubs is the most anxiety provoking activity when working on bikes. If the cones are too tight yer screwed, if they are too loose your screwed. If they are just right you'll never really know. They never made a torque wrench for cones.

I recommend you adjust them tight enough that there is the slightest bit of play in the axle. The final adjustment can not be made until you put the wheel in the frame. Remember that when you clamp the quick release you are actually placing a load on the bearing. I like the fat thick phil grease in my loose ball hubs.