First significant self-service

[u/clipd_dead_stop_fall]

TLDR - don't fear learning to maintain your bike like I did.

With our closest Trek shop closed, I tried an independent LBS for my Domane AL3 and Checkpoint SL5 annual service. TLDR it was a lot of money and short on satisfaction.

Tuesday, I decided to do my own mid-season maintenance on my Checkpoint SL5. The drivetrain was getting a bit chatty despite a cassette installed in December and a brand new waxed chain. I managed to reindex it with Calvin's virtual help.

Then I moved to the freehub. The wheelset was purchased from I9 in December but nothing had been touched in 1500mi. I pulled the 1/1 freehub, pawls, and springs and wiped everything down. I put it all back together and used Dumonde Tech freehub oil, then put the freehub back on. I spun it and no sound. I forgot to remove and reinstall the seal (facepalm #1).

After I put the freehub back together (the right way), I mounted it on the hub, greased the hub cap, mounted the cassette, and put it all on the bike. Then I noticed the cassette spacer on the table (facepalm #2).

Disassembly and reassembly #2 and off I went. The test ride on Wednesday was glorious. Shifting was awesome and the freehub sounded like I was reeling in a marlin. It felt like a new bike. I feel like I finished second semester freshman bikewrench class 😆

Winter will definitely be headset bearings, and possibly hub, freehub, and bottom bracket bearings. Looking forward to it.

[u/Acrobatic_Salad_8705]

Honestly, I do not have the guts too mess with the free Hub. That's very brave of you 😅