Need To Lube A Freewheel Options

[CharleyGnarlyP29...]

What is best way to lube a freewheel? It still spins freely and is in very good shape for being 25+ years old. Is there something I can soak it in?
It is kind of dirty externally, so I will have to clean it up some, but want to get it spinning better.

[tosborne]

I use either to clean . Gets all the uck out and then soak in oil. Have used this method for a long time I am raceing on some freewheels old enough to vote. Do this every other month or if dirty conditions then right away. It;s the dirt that makes them skip and slip.

[bradshimmin]

I use either to clean .

Refusing to add anything of value to this thread...Ok, now I have Steve Martin's Little Shop of Horrors song firmly stuck in my head. Pass the Nitrous oxide on de left hand side.

[Brandon002]

Just replace it, what's a freewheel cost? 15 bucks?

[CharleyGnarlyP29...]

I will replace it if necessary, but it has been on the bike since '81 and I would like to keep it there if possible.

[MarkMc]

A co-worker soaks his freewheels in Phil's Tenacious oil. He loves the results. Really quiets them down.

[omartcruisers]

Some freewheels can be taken apart, relubed and reassembled. A Shimano is easy, since the top plate is on the outside. A nice steel punch or even a screwdriver along with a good whack will remove it. Suntours are a little harder since the part that comes off is on the backside of the freewheel, so you have to remove it to get to it. If it's a Dicta, just replace it and use it as a paper weight.

[raceit]

I use Autozone Brake Parts Cleaner. Spin by hand while I spray out the nasty stuff.
It dries really fast and leaves no residue.
Then use your choice of lube/method.
I use Bel-Ray 6in1, spray some in while I spin it then let it drip dry for a while.
I do this with the freewheel removed.
Works fine so far.

[Kurt.]

A good couple week soak in kerosene works wonders to clean out the gunk too - give it a few spins every day or two. You often see kerosene baths in mechanical workshops.

[CharleyGnarlyP29...]

Thanks for all of the suggestions, but I went ahaead and did it like I did in the old days.
I soaked it in gas for a day. Took it out scrubbed it with a toothbrush to get the chain gunk off. Let it dry real good. Soaked it in good old 3n1 oil. Wiped it off.
Voila! Spins like a champ. I spin it reall good once and cut a 2x4 in half with it. (IMG:style_emoticons/default/sun_bespectacled.gif)