Wheel creaking

[Matt1705]

My back wheel has developed a dreadful creaking /cracking sound when I'm riding. It doesn't it whether I'm pedalling or not...

I know the wheel needs truing slightly, could this be the sole problem?

Also when I turn the bike upside down and spin the wheel there is a grinding sound from the hub area. How easy is it to remove and clean / re-lube/grease?

Any advice appreciated, can't afford new wheels!

 

[Biker Joe]

I had this once on a bike. It turned out to be where the spokes crossed each other. Put a drop of oil where the spokes cross. It's quick and will eliminate one possibility.
Sorry can't help with the hub.

 

[Matt1705]

Thanks, I'll try that :-D

 

[accountantpete]

I'd also give the hub an overhaul as it sounds like something has worn or the grease has been washed away.

 

[Matt1705]

I'd also give the hub an overhaul as it sounds like something has worn or the grease has been washed away.

And how might a novice like me do that?

 

[accountantpete]

Depends on the hub.

If it a modern type with freehub and skewers then the very ends through which you poke the skewer accept a hex key. Insert a hex key at either end and unscrew.

Then go very slowly at taking it apart - noting what comes off and the order it came off.

 

[Matt1705]

That's Sunday morning sorted then

ETA: Assuming I need new grease, what's best to use on a tight budget and where best to get it from?

 

[adamhearn]

I did an axle & bearings swap out on my using Ramonol Water Resistant White Marine Grease. It was £10 for a large tub that'll last forever I'm sure! Not sure it's the best for the axle bearings but the wheel seemed to run just fine.

 

[SatNavSaysStraightOn]

guess what I was doing this afternoon - 2 bikes, 4 wheels. what a mess they were in 7 out of the 8 sides where full of crap, water, rust and anything else except clean grease and bearings. I needed a 15mm & 17mm flat spanner to get into my hubs...
Start with the front wheel - its easier. (I just googled regrease hubs and went from there)

http://www.cyclechat.net/threads/what-have-you-fettled-today.87079/post-2251210

 

[wisdom]

I like lithium grease for bikes,its a bit more waterproof,a tub will last ages