Lockring Removal Tool Alternative
 

Hi guys. My dad just bought a used bike, and decided to clean and tune it. I bought the topeak alien 2, which has most the tools i need, but i did forget i need a lockring removal tool, and i really don't want to ask my dad to buy a lockring removal tool after all hes already bought me. Is there anyway i can remove a lockring without the tool, and without damaging the lockring so much that the tool would'nt work? Thanks!

IIWY, I'd get the proper tool.

http://www.parktool.com/product/freewheel-remover-fr-5g

You can usually get them off with a hammer and a flathead screwdriver/punch, so long as you're careful it won't cause any permanent damage. Make sure you use something like PB Blaster to help.

You're not going to be able to assemble it properly without the tool though.

If cost is such an issue, perhaps you could explain why you feel you need to remove a lockring?

i want to soak it in alcohol and get it nice and clean and shiny so i can wax my drivetrain

Never mind guys i got bored of trying to get the lockring off, so i used a brush and some dish soap. Then i sprayed the cassette with a hose to get the gunk stuck between the cogs out, and that made the cassette squeaky clean. Far cleaner than i expected, and its more htan good enough for waxing :)

thanks though!

Lockrings are used for cassettes and centerlock brake rotors - both of which are supposed to be torqued to 40 Nm. If you're looking at removing a cassette because the bearing cones need attention, you'll also need a chain whip. And a torque wrench to reassemble it properly. Or you could simply ask your LBS to look after some things.

Cleaning a cassette on the bike, wheither with soap and water or a degreaser, risks removing grease from the wheel bearings, or contaminating them with water, or both. Yeah - some professional mountain bikers use power washers at competitions - they also replace bottom brackets and wheel bearings every year.

You're only looking at $9 for the proper tool - with free shipping.

http://www.amazon.com/IceToolz-09C3-...8939253&sr=8-2