removing the freewheel
 

So I'm trying to convert a trek 520 to a fixed gear. I need to remove the freewheel from the hub but I can't get my hands on a freewhell puller. Any advice on an alternative way to get it off?

take it to your lbs, they should be able to do it for about $5.00 (or free, depending on how cool they are).

Get your hands on a bike mech. Or...

If you are in Minneapolis, I'll do it for $5....=)

In my mind i pictured reverse threaded, i was wrong...http://www.parktool.com/repair_help/FAQcogs.shtml

are you sure about that?

if you plan on doing this kind of thing more than once, spring for a remover and a chainwhip. otherwise get thee to the LBS.

Both LBS I went to pulled the freewheels off for free. First was the original suntour 6 speed from my Trek 460 for which I didn't want to buy the correct tool for a 1 time use. Second was to get the BMX freewheel off again so I could add a BB locknut/spacer to straighten my chainline. I bought stuff from both of them.

I think the key is to go there with the intention of walking out with the loosened part 2 minutes later. I think it's hard to justify charging $5-10 for 2 minutes labor, especially if you are also buying something. If you leave it there, then the time to remove is ambiguous and so charging is easier to do. I did ask them in advance if they sold the freewheel removers. Both said they'd have to order it. Then I asked if they could remove it.

That being said, if either store would have had the freewheel remover I needed, I would have bought it. I am still in the same boat if I need one removed again.

one alternative would be to get a track hub rather than adhering to bumbikeology.

And then what - use the hub to remove the freewheel?

thanks for all the advice. I guess i could just go to my lbs and get them to do it. They're known for being jerks and they've charged me for lesser deeds before, but it's better than ordering a tool for a one time job.

keep in mind that the tool only costs about $10.00, so if they're gonna charge you anything close to that you might as well buy the tool.

OK, you only need the tool, not a chainwhip unless its a cassette

and www.biketoolsetc.com is a good place to pick one up, definitely less than $10