RobE30

So, after stripping out multiple axle nuts on my 58 Grand Prix I took a very close look at the threads on the axle and decided that the threads on the axle are quite worn. Simple fix I thought, put in a new threaded solid axle and be done. Not so. The dropouts on the old Raleigh are quite narrow and the OG axle has flat sides (probably why it's threads are dying) where the new axle does not.

Can I grind two sides (or one side) of a new axle flat and then chase the threads with the axle nuts or must I find a tap/die with the proper thread pitch? I DO NOT want to spread the dropouts (if it was a cheap bike, no big deal) so that option is out. The rear hub is a Racelite w/ a 4spd freewheel if that has any bearing on this.

Currently it works OK, but if I put any sort of OOMPH into it, the rear wheel shifts and party's over

Any other suggestions?

rhm

You might do better with a quick release axle? I've always thought a good QR is a stronger attachment than axle nuts.

But yes, I don't see why you can't flatten one side of the axle as you describe. Other options include going to a Sturmey Archer hub... less original, but maybe more useful?

RobE30

I have a 58 36h AW and a 52 36h AW waiting for me to build into a 36h Al rim. That is my last ditch plan however

I think the issue of the narrow dropout would be an issue whether or not it it quick release or not.

sailorbenjamin

Try it. Worst possibility is that you trash a cheap replacement axle.