How to Change a Quick Release Skewer

Last Updated: September 15, 2021 References

A quick release skewer is essentially the axle of a bicycle wheel.^{[1]
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Research source} This 1927 Italian invention is a rod that is threaded on 1 end and contains a lever-operated cam system on the other end. To change a quick release skewer, you do not need any tools since the lever and cap can be tightened and loosened by hand. If you have never operated this type of apparatus before, you may need to learn how to change a quick release skewer, especially on a bicycle.

Steps

1
Push open the quick release lever. This will loosen the skewer. Locate the cap at the opposite end of the skewer, and unscrew it until the wheel falls out of the dropouts. Continue unscrewing the cap until it is completely detached from the skewer threads. Set aside the cap in a place where it will not get lost. If you purchased a new skewer, don't worry about the cap for the old skewer.^{[2]
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2
Pull the skewer straight out by pulling on the quick release lever. Take off the spring, and clean the skewer at this point if you intend to reuse it. If you are replacing a quick release skewer, set aside or dispose of the old one.

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3
Lube the shaft and threads of the skewer with bearing grease.
4
Insert the skewer into the wheel with the quick release lever facing in the proper direction, which is usually the left side of the bicycle. Put the spring on with the smaller end aiming toward the wheel. Gently compress the spring with the cap, and slowly turn the cap just enough to get it attached without falling off. Put the wheel into the dropouts, and finish tightening the cap.^{[3]
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Warnings

Quick release skewers can make bicycle wheels more susceptible to theft. To prevent theft, use a bicycle lock to connect the wheel and bicycle frame when not in use.

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Do not attempt to install a bent skewer. Buy a new one instead. Bent skewers cause the wheel to rotate unevenly, and can cause possible injury.

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Be extra cautious if your bicycle has front disc brakes. There is a possibility of the skewer being loosened by the forces exerted by the disc brakes when the bicycle is in use. Make sure the skewer is adequately tightened before riding a bicycle with front disc brakes.

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The spring is very delicate, so handle it carefully.

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Make sure the skewer is properly tightened before attempting to ride the bicycle. If the skewer is not properly in the dropouts and safely tightened, the wheel could fall off.

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