TIL a simple trick for old stuck seatposts that actually works

Had a 90s steel frame come in last Tuesday with a seatpost totally frozen in place. The guy said it hadn't moved in maybe ten years. I tried the usual stuff, like letting penetrating oil sit overnight and some gentle heat, but nothing. Then I remembered an old forum post about using a two-tooth gear puller. I had one in the back from a car job. Clamped it on the post, gave it a slow, steady crank, and after about five minutes of pressure, it popped free with a loud crack. Didn't hurt the frame at all. It was such a small win but felt awesome after thinking I'd have to tell the customer it was a lost cause. Anyone have a different go-to method for the really stubborn ones?

2 comments

2 Comments

leotaylor20d ago

That gear puller trick is a great way to crack a vintage frame tube. I've seen it crush the seat cluster on thin-walled steel.

lisar1420d ago

Yeah, that's a real risk. I've had better luck with a big bench vise and some careful heat.