Disassembling a Shimano FF cogset

Steve,

I just did this very thing in restoring MY 1977 Schwinn Suburban! I had to buy a new rear wheel from a guy who was parting one out because my local bike shop broke my original cogset! My advice: DON'T take it off if you don't have to. Remove the axle by removing the cone on the other side. If you must, you can now use an old-style small Shimano freewheel remover on the splines. The modern Park ones are too big. DON'T use a chain-whip (I think that's how they broke mine) But you don't have to take the cogset off. Use a magnet on a stick to grab the bearings. Squirt degreaser in the cup and clean it out with paper towels and Q-tips. Of course you will also clean or replace the cone and bearings. Lay the wheel flat with the cogset side up. Pack the cup with grease and put the bearings back in. The grease will hold them in place while you slide the axle and cone back into place. It'll be obvious when it's right; if you have a recalcitrant ball bearing push it down into the cup with your finger. Hold the axle in place and turn the wheel over, and repeat on the easier other side. The axle will keep your ball bearings from falling through the wheel.

I just did this and the bike rides GREAT! Good luck with your project!

Marty