Originally Posted by CliffordK

Yep, a shop can't afford to spend a couple hours to do a job right when they can sell a replacement part for $20 (nor would it be cost effective for the consumers).

On the other hand, there are many people that enjoy projects like that. Consider them to be "mancave puzzles".

The other issue is that while things like bearings and grease are available, there just isn't much of a distribution network for spare parts for the freewheels. Rings, pawls, etc.

I'd still go back to your LBS, and ask for any parts he removed from your bike (plus a waste basket full of everyone else's discarded freewheels).

If you have a modern splined freewheel, then buy the tool. You should be able to find it for about $5, and it should last a lifetime.

Supporting vintage freewheels with a variety of removal tools is up to you.