Are you having trouble removing the bicycle pedal crank? Don’t worry, it’s a common problem for cyclists. In this article, we will provide you with a step-by-step guide on how to remove the bicycle pedal crank safely and effectively. Removing the crank is not a very difficult task, but it requires the right tools and techniques. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can easily remove the pedal crank and get your bike back on the road in no time.
The first step is to gather the necessary tools. You will need a 15mm wrench, a 17mm wrench, a pedal crank puller, and a rubber mallet. Once you have all of your tools, you can begin the removal process. First, remove the pedals from the crank arms. Next, use the 15mm wrench to remove the bolt that holds the crank arm to the bottom bracket. Be sure to support the crank arm with the other hand to prevent it from falling. Finally, use the pedal crank puller to remove the crank arm from the bottom bracket.
If you are having difficulty removing the crank arm, you can try using a rubber mallet to tap it loose. Be careful not to hit the crank arm too hard, as this could damage it. Once the crank arm is removed, you can repeat the process on the other side of the bike. With the crank arms removed, you can now easily access the bottom bracket for maintenance or replacement.
Locating the Pedal Crank
The pedal crank, also known as the crankarm, is a crucial component of a bicycle’s drivetrain. It connects the pedals to the bottom bracket, which in turn drives the rear wheel. Before removing the pedal crank, it’s essential to locate it accurately.
The pedal crank is typically a metal arm that extends from the bottom bracket. On each end of the crankarm, there are threaded cups called pedal spindles. These spindles are where the pedals are screwed in. In most cases, the pedal crank will be located on the right side of the bike, with a smaller crankarm on the left side.
To locate the pedal crank:
1. **Examine the Right Side of the Bike:** Look for a metal arm protruding from the bottom bracket on the right side of the bike. This arm will have two threaded cups at its ends for the pedals.
2. **Identify the Crankarm Length:** The length of the crankarm is typically measured from the center of the bottom bracket to the center of the pedal spindle. Common crankarm lengths range from 165 mm to 180 mm.
3. **Locate the Left Crankarm:** The left crankarm is usually shorter than the right crankarm. It is located on the left side of the bike and is connected to the right crankarm by a spindle.
| Crankarm Side | Length | Threaded Cups |
|---|---|---|
| Right | Longer | For pedals |
| Left | Shorter | Connects to the right crankarm |
Gathering Necessary Tools
Before embarking on the task of removing a bicycle pedal crank, it is crucial to assemble the essential tools. Below is a comprehensive list of what you will need:
| Tool | Purpose |
|---|---|
| 15mm Spanners | For loosening the crank bolts |
| Crank Puller | To extract the crank from the bottom bracket |
| Allen Keys (6-8mm) | For removing any retaining bolts on the crank |
| Chain Whip | To prevent the cassette from spinning when loosening the crank bolts |
The tools listed above are essential for ensuring a safe and efficient crank removal process. Failure to use the appropriate tools can lead to damage to the bike or the tools themselves. Therefore, it is advisable to double-check that you have all the necessary tools before proceeding with the crank removal.
Identifying Bolt Types
There are several common types of bolts used to secure bicycle pedal cranks, each requiring a specific tool or technique for removal. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the most common types:
1. Hex Bolt: This is a standard six-sided bolt that can be removed using a hex key or Allen wrench. The head of the bolt will have a raised hexagonal pattern.
2. Square Taper Bolt: A square taper bolt has a square-shaped head that fits into a matching square hole in the crank arm. This type of bolt is typically used for cottered cranks or older-style bottom brackets. Removal requires a special square taper bolt wrench or a flat-bladed screwdriver.
3. Hollowtech II Bolt: Hollowtech II bolts are used on Shimano’s Hollowtech II cranks. They feature a hollow center and a spline drive pattern on the inside. Removal requires a special Hollowtech II tool or a 12-point socket.
4. Octalink Bolt: Octalink bolts are used on Shimano’s older Octalink cranksets. They have a spline or star-shaped drive pattern on the head. Removal requires a special Octalink tool or a compatible socket or wrench.
5. ISIS Drive Bolt: ISIS Drive bolts are used on ISIS Drive cranks from a variety of manufacturers. They have a spline drive pattern on the outside of the bolt head. Removal requires a special ISIS Drive tool or a compatible socket or wrench.
| Bolt Type | Head Shape | Tool Required |
|---|---|---|
| Hex Bolt | Hexagonal | Hex key or Allen wrench |
| Square Taper Bolt | Square | Square taper bolt wrench or flat-bladed screwdriver |
| Hollowtech II Bolt | Hollow center with spline drive | Hollowtech II tool or 12-point socket |
| Octalink Bolt | Spline or star-shaped | Octalink tool or compatible socket or wrench |
| ISIS Drive Bolt | Spline drive on outside of head | ISIS Drive tool or compatible socket or wrench |
Removing the Right Crank Arm
The right crank arm is typically removed using a combination of tools. The most common tools used for this task are a 14mm hex wrench or socket, a 5mm hex wrench, and a crank puller.
Required Tools:
| Tool | Description |
|---|---|
| 14mm hex wrench or socket | Used to remove the crank bolt |
| 5mm hex wrench | Used to loosen the crank arm pinch bolt |
| Crank puller | Used to extract the crank arm from the spindle |
Detailed Instructions:
- Remove the Pedal: Using a 15mm socket or wrench, remove the pedal from the right crank arm.
- Loosen the Pinch Bolt: Locate the crank arm pinch bolt on the inside of the crank arm, near the bottom bracket. Use a 5mm hex wrench to loosen this bolt but do not remove it completely.
- Remove the Crank Bolt: Using a 14mm hex wrench or socket, remove the crank bolt that holds the crank arm to the spindle.
- Extract the Crank Arm: Thread the crank puller onto the spindle, ensuring that it is properly aligned with the crank arm. Tighten the crank puller bolt gradually until the crank arm pops off the spindle.
Removing the Left Crank Arm
Removing the left crank arm is a bit more involved than removing the right arm. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
1. Gather Your Tools
You will need:
– 8mm Allen key or hex wrench
– Pedal wrench
– Chain whip
– Rag or cloth
2. Remove the Pedal
Using the pedal wrench, turn the left pedal counterclockwise to remove it.
3. Remove the Chainring Bolts
Using the 8mm Allen key or hex wrench, loosen but do not remove the four chainring bolts. These bolts are located on the inside of the chainring.
4. Remove the Chain
Using the chain whip, remove the chain from the chainring.
5. Remove the Crank Arm
This step requires a bit of force, so be careful not to damage the crank arm or spindle.
– Hold the crank arm with one hand and place the 8mm Allen key or hex wrench in the crank bolt.
– Turn the crank bolt counterclockwise until it is loose.
– Use a rag or cloth to protect your knuckles and pull the crank arm straight off the spindle.
6. Clean and Inspect
Once the crank arm is removed, clean the spindle and crank arm with a rag or cloth. Inspect the parts for any damage or wear.
Cleaning the Crank Threads
Removing grime, old grease, and debris from the crank threads is essential for a successful crank removal. Here’s a detailed guide on how to clean them:
Materials needed:
- Rag or cloth
- Cleaning solvent or degreaser
- Toothbrush or small brush
Steps:
- Wrap a rag around the crank arm to protect it from damage.
- Apply the cleaning solvent to the threads and let it sit for a few minutes to penetrate the dirt.
- Use a toothbrush or small brush to gently scrub away the grime and grease.
- Wipe the threads clean with a fresh rag or cloth.
- Inspect the threads for any remaining debris and repeat the cleaning process if necessary.
- Allow the threads to dry completely before proceeding with crank removal.
Tips:
- Use a non-abrasive solvent to avoid damaging the thread surface.
- If the threads are heavily caked with grease or dirt, consider using a stronger cleaning solution or letting it soak for a longer period.
- Pay attention to cleaning the areas around the pedal threads as well.
| Solvent Options | Properties |
|---|---|
| Mineral spirits | Mild odor, safe on most surfaces |
| Isopropyl alcohol | Fast-drying, leaves no residue |
| Denatured alcohol | Stronger than isopropyl alcohol, evaporates quickly |
| Citrus cleaner | Biodegradable, safe for aluminum parts |
Applying Lubricant
Before attempting to remove the pedal crank, it is crucial to apply lubricant to ease the process and prevent damage to the components. Here’s a step-by-step guide to applying lubricant:
- Identify the location: Locate the junctions where the pedal crank bolts connect to the bottom bracket shell (the central part of the bicycle frame that houses the bearings and spindle).
- Clean the area: Use a degreaser or mild detergent to clean any dirt or debris accumulated on the crank bolts or bottom bracket shell.
- Apply penetrating oil: Spray a generous amount of penetrating oil onto the pedal crank bolts. Allow it to sit for a few minutes to penetrate and loosen any corrosion.
- Lubricate the threads: Apply a thin layer of grease or anti-seize compound to the threads of the pedal crank bolts. This will further reduce friction and prevent the bolts from seizing.
- Lubricate the bolt heads: Apply a small amount of grease or anti-seize compound to the bolt heads where they contact the surface of the bottom bracket shell.
- Wipe away excess: Use a clean cloth to wipe away any excess lubricant that may have dripped or smeared onto surrounding areas.
- Wait: Allow the lubricant to settle and penetrate for a few minutes before proceeding to remove the pedal crank. This will increase the effectiveness of the lubricant and make the removal process easier.
Note: It is recommended to use a high-quality, bicycle-specific lubricant for optimal results. Avoid using general-purpose lubricants, as they may not provide sufficient protection or may damage the bicycle components.
Tightening the Crank Arms
8. Tightening the Crank Bolt
The crank bolt is a crucial component responsible for securing the crank arms onto the bottom bracket spindle. Proper tightening is essential to ensure a safe and secure connection.
a. Applying Grease
Before tightening, it is recommended to apply a thin layer of medium-strength threadlocker (such as blue Loctite) to the threads of the crank bolt. This will help prevent it from loosening over time due to vibrations.
b. Tightening Sequence
Tighten the crank bolt gradually in a crisscross pattern. This will help distribute the force evenly and reduce the risk of cross-threading or overtightening. Use a torque wrench to achieve the specified torque, as excessive force can damage the threads.
c. Final Check
Once the crank bolt is tightened, use a wrench to double-check its tightness. If it rotates easily, retighten it according to the specified torque. It’s crucial to ensure that both crank arms are securely fastened.
| Crankset Type | Tightening Torque |
|---|---|
| Square Taper | 35-50 Nm |
| Octalink/ISIS Drive | 50-80 Nm |
| Hollowtech II | 68-80 Nm |
Inspecting and Testing
Before attempting to remove the pedal crank, thoroughly inspect it for any visible damage or wear. Check for loose or damaged bolts, stripped threads, or any other signs of a compromised crank. If anything unusual is observed, it’s best to seek professional assistance to avoid further damage.
To test the crank’s functionality, place the bicycle on a stable surface and grab the pedal firmly. Try to rotate it in both directions. If there’s any noticeable resistance or grinding noises, it may indicate an issue with the crank bearings or other internal components. If the crank rotates smoothly without any resistance, you can proceed with the removal process.
9. Using a Crank Puller
If all other methods fail, you can resort to using a crank puller—a specialized tool designed to remove pedal cranks safely and effectively. Here’s a detailed step-by-step guide:
a. Preparation:
- Remove the pedals.
- Wrap a rag or cloth around the crank arm to protect it from scratching during the removal process.
b. Attaching the Crank Puller:
- Choose the appropriate puller for the type of crank you have. The puller must fit securely on the crank without any play.
- Thread the puller onto the crank spindle (where the pedals were attached) until it’s fully tightened.
c. Removing the Crank:
- Screw the center bolt of the puller until the crank arm starts to loosen.
- As the crank arm continues to loosen, gently tap it with a hammer or mallet to encourage its release.
- Once the crank arm is completely loose, unscrew the puller and remove it.
1. Gather Your Tools
You will need a few basic tools to remove a bicycle pedal crank:
- Allen key or hex wrench
- Wrench
- Chain whip (optional)
2. Remove the Pedal
Start by removing the pedals from the cranks. Insert the appropriate Allen key or hex wrench into the bolt on the back of the pedal and turn it counterclockwise to loosen the bolt. Once the bolt is loose, remove the pedal by hand.
3. Remove the Chainring
If the crankset has a chainring, you will need to remove it before you can remove the crank. Use a chain whip to hold the chainring in place, then use a wrench to loosen the bolts that are holding the chainring to the crank. Once the bolts are loose, remove the chainring by hand.
4. Remove the Crank Bolt
The crank bolt is located on the inside of the crank arm. Insert the appropriate Allen key or hex wrench into the bolt and turn it counterclockwise to loosen the bolt. Once the bolt is loose, remove it by hand.
5. Remove the Crank Arm
With the crank bolt removed, you can now pull the crank arm off of the spindle. If the crank arm is stuck, you can use a rubber mallet to gently tap it loose.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
1. The crank bolt is stuck
If the crank bolt is stuck, you can try using a penetrating oil to loosen it. Apply a few drops of penetrating oil to the bolt and let it sit for a few minutes. Then, try to loosen the bolt again.
If the crank bolt is still stuck, you can try using a larger wrench or an impact wrench. Be careful not to overtighten the bolt, as this can damage the crank arm.
2. The crank arm is stuck
If the crank arm is stuck, you can try using a rubber mallet to gently tap it loose. Be careful not to hit the crank arm too hard, as this can damage it.
If the crank arm is still stuck, you can try using a crank puller. A crank puller is a tool that is designed to remove stuck crank arms.
How to Remove a Bicycle Pedal Crank
Removing a bicycle pedal crank requires a few specialized tools, but it is a relatively straightforward process. Here are the steps on how to do it:
- Gather your tools. You will need a pedal wrench, a crank puller, and a chain whip.
- Place the bicycle in a stand to keep it stable.
- Remove the pedals. Use the pedal wrench to loosen the pedals and remove them by hand.
- Install the crank puller. The crank puller is a tool that screws onto the crank arm and pulls it off the bottom bracket spindle.
- Tighten the crank puller. Use the wrench to tighten the crank puller until the crank arm begins to loosen.
- Remove the crank arm. Once the crank arm is loose, you can remove it by hand.
People Also Ask
How do you remove a crank without a crank puller?
If you do not have a crank puller, you can remove the crank using a hammer and a punch. Place the punch on the back of the crank arm and tap it with the hammer until the crank arm loosens.
Can you remove a bike crank without tools?
It is possible to remove a bike crank without tools, but it is not recommended. You can use a hammer and a punch to loosen the crank arm, but this can damage the crank arm and the bottom bracket spindle.
How do you tighten a loose crank?
To tighten a loose crank, you will need a crank tightening tool. The crank tightening tool screws onto the bottom bracket spindle and tightens the crank arm. You can purchase a crank tightening tool at most bike shops.
