Hub assemblies can be oiled or greased, and just like motors and transmissions, the lubricant and lubrication practices will have a considerable impact on their life expectancy and operation. The better you take care of these components, the longer they will last.
Q. Can you service a Shimano freehub?
To service the freehub, begin by removing rear cogs. The common Shimano® freehub uses internal loose ball bearing, pawls and springs. The small ball bearings are available as replacement parts. However, if the bearings are worn out and require replacing, it is very likely the entire freehub is needing replacement.
Table of Contents
- Q. Can you service a Shimano freehub?
- Q. What is the difference between freewheel and freehub?
- Q. Why is there play in my rear wheel?
- Q. Why is my back wheel wobbling on my bike?
- Q. How tight should rear bike wheels be?
- Q. How often should I service my bike hub?
- Q. How many ball bearings does a Shimano rear hub have?
- Q. How many bearings does a rear bike hub have?
- Q. How many ball bearings does a Shimano freewheel have?
Q. What is the difference between freewheel and freehub?
The rear cogs are attached to the hub in one of two ways. Newer bikes tend to use type hub called a “cassette hub.” The cassette hub uses a “freehub” sytem, which is a type of clutch mounted to the body of the hub. The cogs and ratcheting body assembly, called a “freewheel,” threads onto the hub.
Q. Why is there play in my rear wheel?
If you’ve got play in one of your wheels (probably the rear), both the bearings, the cone and bearing races within the hub are more prone to accelerated wear. And play is also an indicator the wheels internals are more exposed to outside elements.
Q. Why is my back wheel wobbling on my bike?
If it’s wobbling side to side, there are two problems that are possible; Your cup-and-cone bearings could be loose or your wheel could be out of true (slightly buckled.) Take your wheel off and hold the axle. Wobble it up and down a few times.
Q. How tight should rear bike wheels be?
You want your rear axle very tight. 150 in/lb is about standard. If it is not tight it will allow the rear wheel to move around and it ties your rear triangle together. Basically the whole back of the bike will feel sloppy.
Q. How often should I service my bike hub?
Frequent drivetrain cleanings will help improve performance and increase the lifespan of your components. Plan on getting the bike overhauled every 3-5000 miles or so. Grease breaks down and bearings systems need attention. Recommended maintenance for this bike: annual Deluxe Tune-up; overhaul every 3-5000 miles.
Q. How many ball bearings does a Shimano rear hub have?
Ten 3/16″ bearings per side on the front, Nine 1/4″ bearings per side on the rear.
Q. How many bearings does a rear bike hub have?
When overhauling a hub, you should always replace the ball bearings. Most front hubs need 10 3/16″ bearings per side, while rear hubs usually need 9 1/4″ bearings.
Q. How many ball bearings does a Shimano freewheel have?
Typically you’ll have 10 bearings per side in the front and nine bearings per side in the back. Those are *common* sizes and counts, but you really won’t know for sure until you tear into the hub.
