How to Weld a Freewheel

A freewheel is a stack of gears on the rear tire of a bicycle. It allows the gears to turn only in one direction enabling the bike to coast without pedaling. Fixed-gear bicycles are bicycles that do not coast. To create a fixed-gear bicycle, you can weld the gears to the axle, preventing the ratchet inside from turning. Some cyclists use arc welders to accomplish this, but bicycle parts are thin and often melt too easily due to the intense heat of arc welders. It's best to use chemical weld.

Things You'll Need

  • Nail, blunt-end
  • Hammer
  • Cup
  • Rubber gloves
  • Acetone
  • Chemical weld
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Instructions

    • 1

      Remove the rear tire from the bicycle. Stand the wheel against your knees. Observe the front of the gear cluster, where the axle protrudes through the middle of the locking ring. Find the two small dents on the locking ring. Place the tip of the large, blunt-end nail into one of the dents. Tap the ring counterclockwise with a hammer until it comes loose. Unscrew it and remove it with your fingers.

    • 2

      Pull the outer gear cluster off the axle. If bearings fall out, place them into a cup. Scoop all of the remaining bearings from the inside of the cluster with your fingers and place them into the cup, ensuring you do not lose any of them. Pour acetone into the cup until it is half full.

    • 3

      Put on rubber gloves. Dip a cloth into the acetone. Thoroughly clean all the grease from the inside of the freewheel, using the cloth. Clean all grease from the axle and the sprocket. Swish the bearings around in the cup until all of the grease is removed. Wipe them off, if necessary.

    • 4

      Mix the chemical weld according to the manufacturer's instructions. Use a small stick to place the chemical weld where the grease was before. Place each bearing side by side into the circular form. Allow the chemical weld to hold them in place. Pack the recessed area that contains the bearings with the chemical weld.

    • 5

      Drop the outer gear cluster back in place on the axle. If some of the weld oozes out, leave it there. Screw the retaining ring back on with your fingers and tighten it. Tap the retaining ring in a clockwise direction to tighten it, using the nail. Let the weld cure for 24 hours before using.