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How To

How to Install a Bike's Bottom Bracket

Contributor
By eHow Contributing Writer
(15 Ratings)

These instructions are for cartridge-style bottom brackets. For information on the older cup and cone style bottom brackets, see related eHow "Adjust a Bike's Bottom Bracket."

Difficulty: Easy
Instructions
  1. Step 1

    Assemble the proper tools. You will need a splined bottom bracket tool and a wrench (socket wrenches are best).

  2. Step 2

    Make sure you have the correct bottom bracket. Does it have the appropriate threads (most likely you are dealing with a standard English bottom bracket, but make sure)? Is the spindle length correct for the cranks you plan to use?

  3. Step 3

    Clamp your frame into the repair stand.

  4. Step 4

    Inspect the bottom bracket shell. It should have been faced, and the threads should be clean.

  5. Step 5

    Place a liberal amount of grease on the threads.

  6. Step 6

    Find the drive side cup. This should be attached to the cartridge body and the cup should have a slight lip on it. There may also be an R and an L on the cartridge body. You want the R side.

  7. Step 7

    Insert the cartridge into the bottom bracket shell on the drive side, and thread the drive side cup into the frame. For a standard English bottom bracket, this is a LEFT HAND (REVERSE) THREAD, so it will thread in and tighten COUNTERCLOCKWISE. Start turning with your fingers first, to make sure you don't cross thread it.

  8. Step 8

    Using the wrench and bottom bracket tool, tighten the drive side cup until the lip presses up firmly against the outside of the bottom bracket shell.

  9. Step 9

    Thread the non-drive side cup into the bottom bracket. This is a normal right hand thread. Again, start with your fingers to make sure you don't cross thread it.

  10. Step 10

    Tighten the non-drive side cup against the cartridge body. You want it tight, but don't over tighten - you can damage the cup, which is often made of aluminum. If you are unsure, check the torque specs for the bottom bracket, and use a torque wrench.

Tips & Warnings
  • When you have the bottom bracket out, it's a great opportunity to inspect your frame for rust. See related eHow "Prevent Rust in Your Bike Frame."
  • Some cartridge bottom brackets are prone to creaking. This generally comes from the area where the cartridge body comes into contact with the non-drive side cup. Grease this area liberally, or use a non-drying gasket sealant (which you can find at auto supply stores).
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