I need to replace my front axle. I've bought the new axle with bearings and lithium grease, but I obviously need to remove the old axle. I know I need to use a cone spanner on one side, and a socket or spanner on the other side to remove it.
How can I easily identify which side of the axle to use the cone spanner on? Will only 1 side of the axle have the appropriate nut for the cone tool?
I've used a 17mm socket on one side, and a cone tool on the opposite side, and it just won't budge.
I tend to use the cone spanner on the same side as the outside spanner, so I know which locknut will undo.
Your description of one spanner on either side will work, but there's a chance that either locknut will undo, as well as a possibility one stackup of cone-nut+locknut will just move on the thread a little.
Some rear wheels may be set up so that you have to do one spanner on either side, like a freewheel-based rear axle can sometimes have its drive-side cone buried too far to reach.
For a front wheel, both sides should be equal and identical. Take some photos first and see how you go.
