Corvette 5 speed freewheel removal

[Pantmaker]

This is the correct tool for this Atom freewheel.

 

[schwinnbikebobb]

Pants is correct but don't use it. You will start peeling that ring off the freewheel.

 

[Pantmaker]

Scwhinnbikebob brings up a very valid point about the ring on this freewheel. The ring seems to be made of exceptionally soft metal and unless you have this tool locked down with zero play...tighter than a drum, the tendency for the two slots on the ring to deform horribly is quite high.

 

[Schwinn499]

If it's the original Atom DON'T use the Park Tool. You will peel the lugs off of the freewheel in a heartbeat. The only way that I have found is to use a big #8 extractor. See pic. I had the end milled off to make it easier to get out of the freewheel. Chuck the extractor in a vice and drop the freewheel on it and turn the wheel. Spray the freewheel with penetrating fluid (I use Kroil) for as long as you can before trying.

This is pretty much the only way to get these off without damage.
View attachment 992962

 

[Schwinn499]

As noted above as well, the extractor MUST be shortened or it will bottom out into the hub before grabbing into the freewheel. Around a half inch seems to be the correct amount.

 

[hatz4katz]

Thanks again for all the great info. Upon reassembly, should I use some type of anti-seize or grease on the threads?

 

[rustjunkie]

for reference:

https://thecabe.com/forum/threads/schwinn-service-manual-volume-1-2.96855/

 

[GTs58]

Thanks again for all the great info. Upon reassembly, should I use some type of anti-seize or grease on the threads?

I would slop it up with anti-seize. You never know when you'll need to remove it again to replace a broken spoke.