How to Repair a 3-Wheel Bicycle

Tricycles are collectible bikes that are easy to repair.

Fixing up an old tricycle is a great project for someone who loves collectibles. These antique bikes will soon hold great monetary value and should be kept in such a condition where they have been well-maintained. Replacing parts is not a hard task for this kind of bike. Simple wheel and rust repair can have an old tricycle looking new in only a short amount of time.

Things You'll Need

• Adjustable wrench
• Replacement Tires
• Paint thinner
• Water Hose
• Paint or Primer
• Wax
• Toothbrush

Instructions

Wheel Repair

1. Put your bike onto a work stand, or some other type of sturdy material. Make sure it is on level ground.

2. Find the width and circumference of your wheels. Take note of the measurements. This will help you find your wheel size for replacements.

3. Remove the old wheels. Use your wrench to remove the hex bolts and slide the wheel out of its place, which is called a drop-out. Keep your hex bolts nearby for the replacement wheels.

4. Take your old wheels to a bicycle shop and have an adviser match them to the set you will need. If you are unaware of how to install the bike wheel, it is better that you let the shop repair them for you.

5. Put the bike chain around the cog on your replacement wheel and position the position the cog on the outside. Push the new wheel down firmly into the drop-out until the chain is secure.

6. Reattach your wheel to the frame using the hex bolts previously taken off.

7. Install all other disabled wheels using the same method.

Restoration

1. Rub your tricycle down in paint thinner to remove any chipped or famished paint.

2. Clean grease build-up from your bearings by dabbing them with paint thinner. Let them soak for 20 minutes.

3. Scrub the bearings and other greasy parts of your bike with an old toothbrush and a cup of warm, soapy water.

4. Spray the entire bike with a water hose. Strong water pressure will remove most grease. Evaluate how much rust it has.

5. Paint over any light rust spots. Heavily rusted areas will need to be sanded and repainted with primer. Paint the faded bicycle its original color. Wax your bike for a polished shine.

Tips & Warnings

• Rustoleum is good brand of paint, and can be purchased either as a primer, or as a pint to paint over the rusty areas.

References

• Bicycle Wheels