Cross threaded freewheel

[AP81]

I was recently given a set of near new Alex R540 wheels from a mate who upgraded his wheelset. After removing the freewheel to replace it with a bigger one, I noticed all the threads are damaged. There is no way another freewheel can go on it.

I've now got two options- use it fixed (no thanks), or replace the entire hub. I can get another identical hub for around $35, but have never built a wheel before. Is this worth doing? Seeing as they were free, I don't mind spending some money on them.

[bychosis]

Wheel building can be a frustrating and rewarding experience.

http://www.bicycles.net.au/forums/viewtopic.php?f=34&t=55616

[darkhorse75]

Assuming it's a single speed flip flop hub just screw the freewheel onto the fixed side and you're good to go.

[drumondo]

How bad is it? Can you run a tap through the thread to clean it up to a usable level?

[AP81]

Assuming it's a single speed flip flop hub just screw the freewheel onto the fixed side and you're good to go.

Thanks, didn't even think of that

How bad is it? Can you run a tap through the thread to clean it up to a usable level?

Upon closer inspection, thre threads aren't actually that damaged. After cleaning the grease out, the threaded sections came out with it.

I managed to screw a dicta freewheel on it with no issues (no lateral play). I guess I'll run with this for now, and if it plays up I'll switch it to the fixed side.

Thanks for the help.