Originally Posted by 70sSanO

My understanding is hubs are machine assembled. I’m not sure if Shimano uses the most efficient processes with the (false) intent that an LBS/wheel builder will set the hub up properly before customer use. After all a hub will always require additional steps, wheel building, prior to being put into use. But I doubt anything is done with machine built discount priced wheels.

I also don’t know if the lower level hubs are thrown together and the higher level hubs have additional steps. A $300 XTR freehub might command more attention at the factory than a $30 Deore offering.

It is not a big deal for me. New or used, I overhaul every hub I get before I use them. There are much better wheel builders and mechanics than me out there, but I doubt there is a machine that will do a better job than I can.

John