Significant chain sag and no handle return

[Ombrax]

Model A's were made from '81-'86, so if the erg wasn't maintained properly and sat for a long time it could be lack of use combined with poor lubrication and/or corrosion.

[Rees1234]

The second post in this thread says that it's a standard 5-speed bicycle freewheel:

viewtopic.php?t=7836

More info on how to remove one:

https://www.parktool.com/blog/repair-he ... stallation

Lots of good information here, thank you
Rees

[c2jonw]

No I cannot. So it should rotate independent of the sprocket and chain?
I've reviewed the Model A parts list but don't find any reference to the flywheel.
What part should I order...a freewheel mech?

I'm pretty sure that C2 doesn't stock the freewheel mechanism any more. You might be able to get one at a bike shop or I have seen them on ebay. It's a little unusual that the mechanism is locked up like that, but you might be able to get it work by cleaning and relubing. Some lubricants have a tendency to thicken and harden over time and that may be what you have especially if the machine has not been used in a long time.

I would remove the flywheel and put it on the ground, sprocket side up with some rags underneath it. Referring to the pic of the Schwinn Approved freewheel in Ombrax's second link, there is a small circular gap just outside of the SCHWINN APPROVED writing. Get some WD40 or similar solvent and puddle it on that circular gap. Hopefully gravity will allow the solvent to flow down into the mechanism and soften the lube so at some point you should be able to rotate the sprockets counter clockwise, and lock up when you turn them clockwise. Keep replenishing the solvent puddle until it's coming out the backside of the free wheel (and onto the rags) and the locking and freewheel action is working. Then follow up with some light oil (3 in One is good) on the same gap. Reassemble and row. You'll get some excess lube coming out for a while so don't use it on the living room carpet.

[Ombrax]

I just came across this on a cycling forum - I bet Pastor Bob (who apparently does have a church!) can help:

https://www.freewheelspa.com/