Dewinterised the MTB. Inevitably took about three hours longer than anticipated.
Last time I changed brake pads it was really hard to get the wheel back on as the gap was too small, and it occurred to me it might be a seized cylinder. Sprayed with WD40 (note the theme developing) and prized a spanner between, which freed it up nicely. Now working perfectly. Someone will be along soon to tell me disc brakes are maintenance free.
Swapped the ice spiker tyres for normal ones. But while taking the rear wheel off, noticed...
Rear freehub completely seized. Had to use a chain whip to move it at all! Took the axle out and main bearings seemed fine but no obvious way to remove the freehub; I have a 10mm Allen key bought specifically for the purpose on another bike, but was too small (and I'm not sure if an Allen key is needed or some other mechanism). Tried spraying some WD40 on the outside at the seal, which seemed to make a surprisingly big difference. Now still notchy, but usable.
Noticed the tension jockey wheel was worn down horribly, and I have a spare 9 speed set, so changed them. Changed the chain too, and counted the cogs on the cassette (11-34) but hoped it would be OK.
Had a test ride, inevitably chain was slipping. I had a spare 11-36 cassette, thought that would be OK and swapped it. Big clashing noise! But wound the B screw all the way in and hey presto, just OK. All good on a short test ride.
Phew. Probably won't ride it again till next winter!
