Taking the gears off a Helicomatic hub

B.B. said:

I still haven't gotten around to replacing my wheels, damnit.
Anyway, this is my beater, but today the weather outside was really
nice in the morning so I went on a little ride that turned into a rather
long one. By the end of it the whole damn bike is showing it's
beater-ness, including a popped spoke.
I know there's a tool for Helicomatic hubs, but I don't have it and
the shops around here are staffed by people who like to give that "dog
just shown a card trick" look when I mention helico--don't even have to
finish the word before they go blank.
Any way to get this thing apart long enough to change a spoke?

Removal of the cogs is similar to a more modern design: there is a lock
ring for which there is a special tool. Since you don't have one, try a
pair of channel lock pliers which may provide a longer gripping surface.

The lock ring is fairly thin and if you grip it in a bench vise you will
likely bend it before you get enough force to turn the ring. It's best
to use the proper tool. Most shops that actually repair bikes and have
been in business for some years would have one around somewhere. Ask
around some more.

I believe either Andrew Muzi or Sheldon Brown still sell the tools.
Phil Brown

Victory is mine! Came off with some gentle nudging from a big pair
of channel locks. But the splined bit was rusted on--cured with some
prying and cussing. I cleaned it all up and tried refitting it with a
dose of grease--slid right on and right back off.
Looks like I'm not the first to go at this hub with pliers--I don't
think one of those tools would even get onto the retainer--it's splines
are all smeared and there's a nasty dent in one side. I might just see
if I can find a snap ring to replace it with--I think I'll have enough
clearance for the pliers.
Ah well, time to see if my LBS can handle selling a spoke to me.

--
B.B. --I am not a goat! thegoat4 at airmail.net