Jim Allen wrote:
> > Sturmey Archer 3 Speed AW hubs come apart from the non-drive
> > side, with a left handed thread. Utilize the notches built
> > into the left side to knock it loose.
Marten Gerritsen replied:
> The usual procedure for the AW is to remove the sprocket and the lh
> cone, unscrew the rh ball ring and withdraw the assembly towards
> the right. Don't think that the NDS side is even removable on the
> later versions
Marten is right, disassemble on the right hand side. Left-side ball cups haven't been threaded since some time in the early-60s I think (someone here will know the exact date no doubt), but I still recommend removal from the right even if you have a threaded left cup. If only so that you can follow along with the S-A service manual or any of a number of books that have described taking it apart that way.
Have a care when you reassemble that right ball ring to the hub shell, it uses a double-start thread. Hard to describe, just look at it in good light, you can see it is a double-helix, very unusual thread type. If you start threading it in wrong, it will go in almost all the way but will stop short and you'll have a thin gap between the shell and the flange of the ring, and won't tighten properly.
Mark Bulgier
Seattle, WA USA