Adjusting Bottom Bracket Cups - How Tight?

Phil33
Phil33 Posts: 40
edited June 2011 in Workshop
How do I tighten a bottom bracket correctly (Shimano Tiagra)? Is it simply a case of freeing the chain, rotating the cranks and adjusting until any play is removed? Or should I go a few turns tighter? Any advice welcome!

Phil
Phil

Comments

  • keef66
    keef66 Posts: 13,123
    Are we talking Tiagra HT2, ie the outboard bearing cups, or the older cartridge type Octalink or square taper?? (Is there a retaining bolt in the centre of the chainring?)

    What makes you think it needs tightening? Whichever of the above systems you have, they are not adjustable, and if correctly installed they stay there till they wear out. If you have play or clicking / grinding noises in the BB it's probably knackered and needs replacing
  • Phil33
    Phil33 Posts: 40
    Keef66,

    Thanks for the advice. It must be the HT2 as it has the outboard cups. On my last training ride the BB was clicking quite loudly. i removed the left crank and thought that the cup was not fastened that tightly. However, as I've had the bike a couple of years (winter use) you are probably right in saying that I need to replace the BB.

    Is it worth upgrading from the standard Tiagra?

    Regards.

    Phil
    Phil
  • pmannion9
    pmannion9 Posts: 287
    Is there play in the cranks? i.e. can you pull and push it in and out...
    If you can - chances are bearings are worn.

    I had to replace my Tiagra bottom bracket a few weeks ago after 3 years heavy use.
    Hadn't a clue at first. Get yourself the shimano bottom bracket ring spanner.
    Then tighten outside cups...

    If it needs replacing its very cheap and easy to do.
    This what I got :
    Shimano Tiagra Bottom Bracket Cups 4500/4550 - Pair - 68mm English Thread
    ID: 60290 Unit Price: £11.99 - Chain Reaction
    Lots of tutorials online. If can do it anyone can !!!
  • keef66
    keef66 Posts: 13,123
    You could try uninstalling, greasing and reinstalling the bearings to see if it sorts the clicking, and if no joy, get some replacements.

    You'll need the BB tool for the cups, an allen key for the crank bolts, and the little plastic star shaped tool for the little plastic star shaped crank end cap which preloads the bearings. (This comes with some BB tools)

    Not sure if it's worth upgrading unless you're a weight-watcher. I've got 105 and was thinking that I'd go for Tiagra to save money when these wear out.

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