I have a 1995 JT 35. The problem I have now is when trying to tighten up the front spokes, most all are loose, half are frozen, and I have broken four spokes already trying to re-tighten. Any tips where to go from this point?....relace the whole wheel, or replace the broken spokes. Also, will anti-seize compound work on keeping the spokes from freezing up like this again? Oh, by the way, any tips on how to get frozen spokes like that loose..... thanks Roy

Roy,

I'd use a good penetrating oil like WD40 and spray all the spoke nipples, then let them sit overnight. Be sure to use a good spoke wrench, one that is specifically designed to service spokes. Sometimes a little heat (VERY little) from a propane torch may help, but you need to be EXTRA careful as you just want to warm the nipple/spoke junction- not get it hot, just to help the oil penetrate.

It will save money to just replace the broken spokes. Anti-seize compound may help but the easy way is to spray the nipples with oil after each ride or once in a while, then wipe the excess off with a paper towel. WD40 will also help to clean off grease from chain lube and an old mechanics trick is to use it to wash your hands of grease when no water is available (it works!).

Jon

Addition:

Jim Snell nicely called me on the last part of the answer to this question, and rightfully so! Thanks Jim! Although WD40 will take grease off hands and hard finishes, it also can possibly cause serious health problems, including cancer! When I answered this question I guess I meant to illustrate the cleaning properties of these types of solvents but chose a a poor example of the past. Years ago, when I was a young mechanic in the 50's and 60's we didn't know about the problems encountered when coming into contact with petrochemicals. I guess that's why there are not as many "old mechanics" around, which is not meant to be a joke. Personally, and for many years now, when working now around grease or other chemicals, I always wear blue Nitrile gloves, which are form-fitting like Latex gloves, but hold up much better and are very resistant to solvents. I'd recommend wearing them under the so-called "Mechanic's" gloves, so popular now. You can get these at any good Industrial Supply shop or a place like Harbor Freight and Tools. Rather than delete the last sentence in the above answer, I thought it would be better to use this to inform the readers of a problem some may not know about and tell of a way to avoid contact with dangerous chemicals in the future.

Jon