If you’re an avid cyclist, you’ll likely need to remove your bicycle pedal crank at some point, whether it’s for maintenance, repairs, or upgrades. The pedal crank is the component that connects the pedals to the bike’s frame and allows you to transfer power from your legs to the wheels. Removing the pedal crank can seem like a daunting task, but it’s actually a relatively straightforward process with the right tools and knowledge. Whether you’re a seasoned bike mechanic or a novice home enthusiast, this guide will provide you with step-by-step instructions to safely and effectively remove your bicycle pedal crank.
Before you begin, it’s crucial to gather the necessary tools for the job. You’ll need a pedal wrench, which is a specialized tool designed to fit the unique shape of pedal cranks. If you don’t have a pedal wrench, you can purchase one from your local bike shop or online retailer. Additionally, you may need a chain whip, which is used to hold the cassette in place while you loosen the crank bolt. Once you have your tools assembled, let’s dive into the process of removing your bicycle pedal crank.
The first step is to identify the type of pedal crank you have. There are two main types: square taper cranks and splined cranks. Square taper cranks are the most common type, and they have a square-shaped hole in the center of the crank arm. Splined cranks, on the other hand, have a series of splines (teeth) that engage with the spindle. Once you’ve identified the type of crank you have, you can proceed to remove it. For square taper cranks, you’ll need to insert the pedal wrench into the hole in the crank arm and turn it counterclockwise to loosen the crank bolt. For splined cranks, you’ll need to use a chain whip to hold the cassette in place while you use the pedal wrench to loosen the crank bolt.
Identifying the Type of Crank System
Before attempting to remove your bicycle pedal crank, it is crucial to identify the type of crank system installed on your bicycle. Different crank systems employ varying removal methods, so proper identification is essential to prevent damage to components.
Square Taper Crankset
Square taper cranksets are a common type found on entry-level and recreational bicycles. They consist of a crank arm with a square-shaped end that fits into a matching hole in the bottom bracket spindle. To identify a square taper crankset, look for a 10-notch nut on the crank arm’s inboard side, opposite the pedal. This nut secures the crank arm to the spindle.
Pros: Easy to remove and install | Affordable
Cons: Can loosen over time | Less efficient power transfer compared to other systems
Crank Removal Technique: Requires a crank puller to extract the crank arm from the spindle.
Octalink Crankset
Octalink cranksets are used on higher-end bicycles. They feature a splined interface between the crank arm and the bottom bracket spindle, providing a secure and more efficient power transfer. Octalink cranksets typically have a single bolt that threads into the spindle to hold the crank arm in place.
Pros: Strong and durable | Efficient power transfer | Easy to adjust
Cons: More complex to remove compared to square taper cranksets | Requires a designated Octalink tool
Crank Removal Technique: Requires a specific Octalink removal tool to detach the crank arm from the spindle.
Here is a table summarizing the key differences between square taper and Octalink cranksets:
| Feature | Square Taper | Octalink |
|---|---|---|
| Crank-Spindle Interface | Square taper | Splined |
| Crank Fixation | 10-notch nut | Single bolt |
| Crank Removal Tool | Crank puller | Octalink removal tool |
| Pros | Easy removal | Affordable | Strong | Efficient | Adjustable |
| Cons | Can loosen | Less efficient | Complex removal | Specialized tool required |
Gathering Necessary Tools
1. Allen Key or Hex Key
The most common size used for bicycle crank bolts is a 6mm or 8mm Allen key. Ensure you have the correct size before attempting to remove the crank. Smaller or larger sizes may not fit properly and can cause damage to the bolt or the crank.
2. Crank Puller
A crank puller is a specialized tool designed specifically for removing bicycle cranks. It consists of a threaded spindle, two or three arms, and a forcing screw. The arms fit onto the crank arms, while the spindle threads onto the bottom bracket axle. By tightening the forcing screw, the crank puller applies pressure to the crank arms, forcing them off the spindle.
Different Types of Crank Pullers:
| Type | Description |
|---|---|
| Two-Arm Puller | Has two arms that attach to the crank arms. Suitable for most single and double cranksets. |
| Three-Arm Puller | Has three arms that provide more stability and leverage. Ideal for removing stubborn or seized cranks. |
| Square-Taper Puller | Specifically designed for square-taper cranksets. Has a wider spindle to fit the square-shaped axle. |
3. Chain Whip or Chain Tool
A chain whip or chain tool is used to hold the cassette or chainring in place while removing the crank. This prevents the cassette or chainring from rotating and allows you to apply more force to the crank puller.
Securing the Bicycle
Before beginning any maintenance or repair work on your bicycle, it’s crucial to secure it firmly to prevent it from toppling over. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to properly secure your bicycle:
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Choose a Stable Base
Select a flat, stable surface with ample space to work around the bicycle without obstructions.
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Elevate the Bicycle
Raise the bicycle by placing it on a bike stand or work stand at a comfortable working height. Ensure the stand is sturdy and can support the weight of the bicycle.
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Secure the Bicycle Frame
Using a bike repair stand, secure the bicycle frame by clamping it firmly onto the stand. The clamp should be tightened securely, but not excessively, to prevent damage to the frame.
Alternatively, if a work stand is not available, you can secure the bicycle to a sturdy object, such as a tree or fence post, using a bike lock or bungee cords. Make sure the bicycle is stable and cannot move or fall over during the repair process.
Locating the Crank Bolts
Identifying the bolts that secure the crank arms to the bottom bracket spindle is a crucial step before attempting to remove the crank. Here’s a detailed guide to locate the crank bolts:
Identifying Crank Bolt Types
Crank bolts come in various types depending on the bicycle model and crankset design. The most common types are:
- Allen Hex Bolt: Requires an Allen key (hex wrench) to tighten or loosen.
- Torx Bolt: Uses a star-shaped Torx key to remove.
- Square Taper Bolt: Requires a crank puller tool to remove.
- Octalink Bolt: A special bolt with an octagonal recess on the head, requiring a specific Octalink tool to remove.
Bolt Location
Locate the crank bolts at the inner end of the crank arms, where they connect to the bottom bracket spindle. Typically, there are two bolts per crank arm, one on each side.
Outer Bolt
The outer bolt, usually located towards the outer side of the crank arm, is easily accessible. It can be removed using the appropriate tool based on its bolt type.
Inner Bolt
The inner bolt is often recessed within the crank arm. To remove it, you may need to remove other components, such as a chainring or crank arm cover, to gain access to the bolt head.
Tightening Direction
Crank bolts are typically tightened in a clockwise direction. To loosen and remove them, turn them counterclockwise.
Crank Bolt Type Tool Required Tightening Direction Allen Hex Bolt Allen Key Clockwise Torx Bolt Torx Key Clockwise Square Taper Bolt Crank Puller Clockwise Octalink Bolt Octalink Tool Clockwise Removing the Crank Bolts
The crank bolts are typically located on the inside of the crank arms, near the bottom bracket. They are usually hidden behind a plastic or metal cover. To remove the crank bolts, you will need a 5mm Allen key or a Torx wrench.
1. Use the Allen key or Torx wrench to loosen the crank bolts. Do not remove them completely at this stage.
2. Once the crank bolts are loose, use your hands to gently pry the crank arms away from the bottom bracket. You may need to use a little force, but be careful not to damage the crank arms or the bottom bracket.
3. Once the crank arms are free, remove the crank bolts completely.
4. Inspect the crank bolts and the threads on the crank arms for any damage. If there is any damage, you will need to replace the crank bolts or the crank arms.
5. To reinstall the crank bolts, follow these steps in reverse order:
Step Instructions 1 Apply a small amount of grease to the threads of the crank bolts. 2 Insert the crank bolts into the crank arms. 3 Tighten the crank bolts using the Allen key or Torx wrench. Do not overtighten the bolts. 4 Replace the plastic or metal cover over the crank bolts. Disengaging the Crank from the Bottom Bracket
To remove the crank from the bottom bracket, you will need to:
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Identify the type of crankset you have. There are two main types of cranksets: square taper and splined. Square taper cranksets are more common on older bikes, while splined cranksets are more common on newer bikes.
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Gather the necessary tools. You will need a crank puller, which is a tool that is specifically designed to remove cranks. You can purchase a crank puller at most bike shops.
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Remove the crank bolt. The crank bolt is located at the end of the crank arm. Use a 6mm Allen key to loosen the crank bolt.
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Attach the crank puller to the crank arm. The crank puller will have two arms that fit around the crank arm. Tighten the screws on the crank puller to secure it in place.
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Tighten the crank puller bolt. The crank puller bolt is located at the center of the crank puller. Use a 6mm Allen key to tighten the crank puller bolt. As you tighten the bolt, the crank arm will start to come loose from the bottom bracket.
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Remove the crank arm. Once the crank arm is loose, you can remove it from the bottom bracket. Grip the crank arm with your hand and pull it straight out. If the crank arm is stuck, you may need to use a rubber mallet to tap it loose.
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Repeat steps 3-6 for the other crank arm.
Separating the Cranks
This is where you will physically separate the cranks from the bicycle frame. You will need a crank puller for this step. A crank puller is a tool specifically designed to remove cranks from bicycles. It is important to use the correct size crank puller for your bike. If you use the wrong size, you could damage your bike.
Here are the steps on how to use a crank puller:
- Attach the crank puller to the crank arm.
- Insert a wrench into the crank puller and begin tightening it.
- Continue tightening the wrench until the crank arm starts to loosen from the bottom bracket.
- Once the crank arm is loose, you can remove the crank puller.
- Repeat these steps for the other crank arm.
- Once both crank arms are removed, the pedals should come off easily.
- If the pedals do not come off easily, you can use a pedal wrench to remove them. Pedal wrenches are designed to fit the specific type of pedals on your bike.
Crank Puller Size Bottom Bracket Type 13 mm Hollowtech II 15 mm BB30 16 mm PF30 17 mm BSA 19 mm ISIS Cleaning and Inspecting the Crank Components
To ensure optimal performance and longevity of your bicycle, it’s crucial to clean and inspect the crank components regularly. Here’s a detailed guide to help you with this task:
1. Remove the Pedals:
Using a 15mm pedal wrench or a 6mm Allen key, unscrew the pedals from the crank arms.
2. Detach the Chainring:
Loosen the bolts holding the chainring using a 5mm Allen key or a T25 Torx wrench. Carefully remove the chainring.
3. Clean the Crank Arms:
Use a degreaser or mild detergent to remove any dirt or grease from the crank arms. Use a soft brush or rag to gently scrub away stubborn buildup.
4. Inspect the Crank Arms:
Look for any signs of damage, such as cracks, dents, or bends. If any damage is found, it’s recommended to replace the crank arm.
5. Remove the Crank Bolts:
Using a 6mm Allen key or a T40 Torx wrench, loosen the crank bolts that connect the crank arms to the bottom bracket.
6. Separate the Crank Arms:
Gently pull the crank arms away from the bottom bracket. Use a crank puller if they are stuck.
7. Clean the Bottom Bracket:
Use a degreaser or mild detergent to clean the threads and the surface of the bottom bracket.
8. Inspect and Lubricate the Bottom Bracket Bearings
Carefully examine the bottom bracket bearings for any signs of wear or damage. If necessary, remove the bottom bracket cups using specialized tools, clean the bearings thoroughly, apply fresh grease, and reassemble the bottom bracket. Refer to this table for specific instructions based on your bottom bracket type:
Bottom Bracket Type Tools Square Taper Crank Puller, Bottom Bracket Tool Octalink Crank Puller, Octalink Tool Hollowtech II Crank Puller, External Bottom Bracket Tool PressFit Press Tool, Bottom Bracket Removal Kit Reassembling the Crank System
Now that the crank has been removed, it’s time to reassemble the crank system. This process is the reverse of the removal process, but there are a few things to keep in mind.
- Make sure that the crank arms are properly aligned. The left crank arm should be aligned with the left pedal, and the right crank arm should be aligned with the right pedal.
- Tighten the crank bolts to the specified torque. The torque value for crank bolts varies depending on the type of crank, so it’s important to consult the manufacturer’s specifications.
- Install the chainring bolts, again tightening them to the specified torque.
- Install the pedals. The pedals should be tightened to the specified torque, and they should be installed in the correct orientation. The left pedal has a left-hand thread, and the right pedal has a right-hand thread.
- Check the chain tension. The chain should be tight enough to prevent it from skipping, but not so tight that it causes excessive wear on the drivetrain components.
- Check the shifting performance. The bike should shift smoothly and quietly through all of the gears.
- If you encounter any problems during the reassembly process, don’t hesitate to consult a qualified bicycle mechanic.
Here are the steps outlined in a table for clarity:
Step Action 1 Align crank arms and pedals 2 Tighten crank bolts 3 Install chainring bolts 4 Install pedals 5 Check chain tension 6 Check shifting performance 7 Consult mechanic if needed Tightening the Crank Bolts to Specification
Tightening the crank bolts to the correct torque is crucial for the safety and performance of your bicycle. Over-tightening can damage the crank bolts, while under-tightening can cause the crank to loosen and potentially come off while riding.
To ensure proper tightening, use a torque wrench and refer to the manufacturer’s specifications for the recommended torque. Typically, crank bolts are tightened to between 35 and 50 Nm. If you do not have access to a torque wrench, use a hex key and tighten the bolts snugly, but avoid overdoing it.
Here are some additional tips for tightening crank bolts:
- Clean the threads of the crank bolts and the crank arms before tightening.
- Apply a small amount of grease to the threads to prevent seizing.
- Tighten the bolts in a star pattern to ensure even distribution of force.
- Check the tightness of the bolts regularly, especially after riding in rough or wet conditions.
Recommended Torque Specifications for Crank Bolts
The following table provides recommended torque specifications for crank bolts from various manufacturers:
Manufacturer Torque (Nm) Shimano 35-50 SRAM 40-50 Campagnolo 35-45 How To Remove Bicycle Pedal Crank
Removing a bicycle pedal crank can be a simple task with the right tools and a bit of know-how. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you remove the crankset from your bike:
- Gather your tools: You’ll need a crank puller, a 5mm Allen key, and a chain whip or pedal wrench.
- Remove the pedals: Start by removing the pedals from the crank arms. Use a 15mm wrench or pedal wrench to loosen the pedals and unscrew them.
- Remove the crank arm bolt: Locate the crank arm bolt on the inside of the crank arm. Use a 5mm Allen key to loosen the bolt but do not remove it completely.
- Attach the crank puller: Screw the crank puller onto the crank arm bolt. Tighten the crank puller until it is snug but do not overtighten it.
- Remove the crank arm: Turn the crank puller bolt clockwise to remove the crank arm from the bottom bracket spindle. Be careful not to damage the crank arm or the bottom bracket.
- Repeat for the other crank arm: Follow the same steps to remove the other crank arm.
People Also Ask About How To Remove Bicycle Pedal Crank
How can I remove a crank without a crank puller?
If you don’t have a crank puller, you can try using a hammer and punch to remove the crank arm. Place the punch against the crank arm bolt and tap it with a hammer to loosen the bolt. Once the bolt is loose, you should be able to remove the crank arm by hand.
What is a crank puller?
A crank puller is a specialized tool designed to remove crank arms from a bicycle bottom bracket. It consists of a threaded bolt that screws into the crank arm bolt and a puller arm that is used to apply leverage to remove the crank arm.
How do I remove a seized crank arm?
If your crank arm is seized, you may need to use a penetrating oil to loosen it. Apply the penetrating oil to the crank arm bolt and let it sit for a few minutes. Then, try using a crank puller or a hammer and punch to remove the crank arm.
