Fettle hub or buy new wheel?

[roubaixtuesday]

Freehub, Whyte branded, completely seized on the MTB.

I can't work out how to get in to take a look. After removing axle, a 10mm Allen key will go straight through. I suspect 11 or even 12? may be needed, or is there some other mechanism? Anyone know?

Also, given it was literally seized solid (needed a chain whip to move it) I suspect it'll be beyond repair. The bike gets little use, a few winter commutes and a very occasional ride, so it's not worth getting a high spec wheel. Plus it's nearly obsolete; 650B and QR with 6 hole disc mount.

I'm tempted to buy one of these at £60 rather than waste any more time on what's probably done for anyway.

https://www.tredz.co.uk/.KX-Wheels-...27-5-Wheel_261740.htm?variations=colour:Black

What do folk think?

 

[All uphill]

It sounds like you know what you want to do.

Another option might be to use the map @annedonnelly has created to see if there's a bike recycling project near you that might have a good used wheel.

Personally I'd have to get to the bottom of the issue with your existing wheel, but that's just me being stubborn and retired.

 

[Big John]

If you can somehow get the freehub off even a stuck solid freehub can be brought back to life by spraying to death on the underside with GT85. Can't speak for Whyte freehubs, unfortunately, but typical Shimano ones have a rubber seal on the bottom that can be removed to allow the GT85 to get to the pawls. Even WD40 would work. However, if you do have a local cycling charity like the one I'm involved with they may have a suitable replacement. You may struggle though with the wheel size though. We don't get many 27.5's in. Are you capable of lacing a replacement hub into your existing rim? That might be another possibility. We charge about £10 for a used hub and £20-25 for a complete wheel.

 

[wafter]

Saturating it with paraffin might persuade it to move and allow you to at least get it to bits (11mm Allen key rings a bell).

I'd certainly give it a go but then I'm tighter and more stubborn than most, plus I hate waste..