The Best Cleaning and Lubrication Routine for Your Shimano FH-6800 Hub

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Proper maintenance of your Shimano FH-6800 [paid link] hub is crucial for its longevity, performance, and smooth operation. The cleaning and lubrication routine you follow directly impacts the efficiency and lifespan of the hub. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the steps to keep your FH-6800 [paid link] hub running smoothly for years, ensuring it continues to perform at its best.

Cleaning Your Shimano FH-6800 Hub

Before applying any lubricant, it’s essential to thoroughly clean your Shimano FH-6800 [paid link] hub to remove dirt, grime, and old lubricant that could impair performance.

Tools Required for Cleaning:

  • Degreaser (bike-specific or general degreaser)
  • Soft brush (such as an old toothbrush)
  • Rags or paper towels
  • Water (preferably in a spray bottle)
  • Chain cleaner or solvent (optional for extra deep cleaning)
  • Isopropyl alcohol (optional for final wipe-down)

Cleaning Steps:

  1. Remove the wheel from the bike: Start by removing the rear wheel from the bike. Place it on a stable work surface, ensuring it won’t roll around.
  2. Clean the cassette and freehub body: Apply degreaser to the cassette and freehub body. Use a brush to scrub off any built-up grime, making sure to reach all the nooks and crannies. If necessary, remove the cassette for a deeper clean.
  3. Rinse and dry: After scrubbing, rinse the hub with water to wash away the degreaser and dirt. Dry the hub thoroughly with a rag to avoid moisture buildup, which could lead to rusting.
  4. Clean the axle and hub shell: Wipe down the axle and hub shell with a clean rag to remove any leftover debris. You may also use isopropyl alcohol for a more thorough final wipe.
  5. Inspect the condition of the hub: While cleaning, take the opportunity to inspect the condition of the hub. Check for any wear, cracks, or loose parts. If necessary, proceed with additional maintenance like bearing lubrication or replacement.

Lubrication for Your Shimano FH-6800 Hub

Lubrication is key to keeping the internal components of your Shimano FH-6800 hub running smoothly. The freehub mechanism relies on proper lubrication to ensure the pawls engage and disengage without issue, and the bearings rotate smoothly.

Tools Required for Lubrication:

  • Bike-specific grease (preferably one designed for hubs)
  • Light machine oil (for pawl mechanisms)
  • Grease gun (optional for easy application)
  • Rags for wiping excess lubricant

Lubrication Steps:

  1. Apply grease to the hub bearings: For the FH-6800 hub, it’s crucial to use the correct type of grease. Apply a light coating of grease to the bearings in the hub shell and the axle. Focus on the areas where the bearings make contact with the hub shell, as these are the most prone to wear.
  2. Lubricate the freehub pawls: To ensure smooth engagement and disengagement of the freehub, apply a small amount of light machine oil to the pawls inside the freehub body. Use a dropper or a fine-tipped applicator to control the amount of oil applied, ensuring it doesn’t spill onto other components.
  3. Reassemble the hub: Once you’ve applied the grease and oil, reassemble the hub. Make sure the freehub body is properly seated and that no excess grease or oil escapes when reassembling.
  4. Check for excess lubrication: After reassembling, rotate the wheel and listen for any unusual sounds. If the hub feels overly sluggish or sticky, wipe off excess lubricant with a rag. It’s better to err on the side of using too little lubrication than too much, as excess lubricant can attract dirt and cause drag.
  5. Reinstall the wheel: Once you’re satisfied with the lubrication, reinstall the wheel on your bike and check that everything spins freely. The hub should engage smoothly and rotate without any abnormal resistance.

Maintenance Tips for Longevity

To keep your Shimano FH-6800 hub in excellent condition, it’s important to incorporate regular cleaning and lubrication into your maintenance routine.

Regular Inspection:

  • Inspect after wet rides: If you’ve ridden in wet conditions, check the hub immediately after the ride. Water can enter the hub, causing rust or affecting the grease and oil. Make sure to clean and dry the hub thoroughly and apply fresh lubrication if necessary.
  • Check the freehub engagement: Over time, the pawls in the freehub can become worn or sticky. If you feel any slipping or inconsistent engagement while riding, it may be time to clean or replace the pawls.
  • Lubricate as needed: Every 3-6 months, depending on the frequency of use and riding conditions, disassemble the hub and apply fresh grease and oil. This ensures the hub continues to operate smoothly and prevents premature wear.

Conclusion

The Shimano FH-6800 hub is a high-performance component that requires regular cleaning and lubrication to perform at its peak. By following the cleaning and lubrication routine outlined above, you can extend the lifespan of your hub and ensure that it continues to provide smooth, reliable performance. Regular maintenance not only helps prevent issues but also optimizes your overall riding experience.