Where have i gone wrong wheel to fit the frame

[afl2]

Got wheels and put a freewheel on. Because it is to fit in a smaller size frame i tried to take the axle end nuts off so i could remove the the large spacer and fit the frame. However the effort to just undo the nuts which i still can not budge has resulted in a alot of play in the axle. Can i ask Where did i go wrong?? What should i do??
Thanks

 

[Shut Up Legs]

I'm no expert on hub adjustments, having just recently done a few on my Vivente tourer/commuter, but I understand that the cone-shaped nut closest to the wheel must be very carefully adjusted to (a) remove any movement/play in the hub but (b) not be too tight so that the bearings wear out sooner. Try this site for some instructions that may help you: http://www.parktool.com/blog/repair-help/hub-overhaul-and-adjustment. It's possible that when you tried to loosen the outer nuts, that you also loosened the cone-shaped nut closest to the wheel? No doubt someone far more experienced that I will come along shortly to help you .

Regards,

--- Victor.

P.S. North Wales is definitely on my cycling 'bucket list', I'm envious that you live there.

 

[PpPete]

That big spacer with the hex on its left hand end acts as the lock nut. You need a thin cone spanner which goes on the two flats inboard of that before you slack off the big hex. You'll also need a narrower locknut to put back on (otherwise the cone will come loose of its own accord when you ride) AND you will need to re-dish the wheel to get the rim back central with the axis of the frame.

 

[afl2]

Thank you both. Will let you know how i get on.
North Wales is fantastic for cycling. The vale of ffestiniog in particular.

 

[Amanda P]

...AND you will need to re-dish the wheel to get the rim back central with the axis of the frame.

Just to add that if you're not clear about re-spacing the axle, it seems unlikely you'll have the tools or skills to re-dish the wheel without a bit of learning - it's not entirely straightforward. If you want to be riding this wheel soon, you'd perhaps best consult a good bike mechanic. (I say 'good' advisedly - many bike shops will just try to persuade you to buy another new wheel).

 

[afl2]

Ok thanks for the advice

 

[RecordAceFromNew]

If your frame is non-exotic steel, and if the wheel's distance between locknuts is not much more than the distance between the frame's rear dropouts then you might not have to mess with the wheel at all.

 

[afl2]

Update. A friend adjusted the the wheel and ok. Got correct spacers from LBS. No further issues with wheel.
Thanks everyone for your input.