Genesis Equilibrium 20 - Bottom Bracket Rust/Oxidation
I have a 2012 Equilibrium 20 (steel frame) which I bought new in February 2013. I am very pleased with it and think it is an excellent product. However I recently removed the bottom bracket to diagnose a clicking noise. The bottom bracket was seized and when I finally managed to remove it I was surprised to find that there was a significant build-up of rust/oxidation on the threads.
The bike is only 1.5 years old and I am a fair-weather cyclist living in the South of France (relatively dry climate). Accordingly it is disappointing to see rust/oxidation appearing so early on.
After some Googling I discovered that other bikes have a drain hole at the lowest point of the bottom bracket shell to allow moisture to escape. The Genesis appears to have such a hole, but it is used for a screw that fixes a moulded plastic cable guide.
I removed the oxidation as best as I could using ACF-50 anti-corrosion compound and a toothbrush, let it dry, then reinstalled the bottom bracket ensuring it was lathered in plenty of Teflon grease (to prevent moisture ingress).
I would be grateful if anyone could provide recommendations regarding corrosion prevention in this zone, in particular with respect to the philosophy on drainage/ventilation? Indeed I am concerned that, without close monitoring, the threads could corrode over time and ruin the frame.
If the Genesis philosophy is to keep the bottom bracket shell completely sealed, then it has failed in my case and I would suggest more greasing is required on the lower screw, bottom bracket threads and seat post.
I contacted Genesis who recommended installing the bottom bracket with grease however regarding my findings they simply stated "Aside from maintaining the bike accordingly, nothing much can be done to reduce the rust build up". I was rather disappointed in their response and was hoping for some more detailed technical advice!
Consequently any advice on here would be much appreciated
Many thanks in advance
The bike is only 1.5 years old and I am a fair-weather cyclist living in the South of France (relatively dry climate). Accordingly it is disappointing to see rust/oxidation appearing so early on.
After some Googling I discovered that other bikes have a drain hole at the lowest point of the bottom bracket shell to allow moisture to escape. The Genesis appears to have such a hole, but it is used for a screw that fixes a moulded plastic cable guide.
I removed the oxidation as best as I could using ACF-50 anti-corrosion compound and a toothbrush, let it dry, then reinstalled the bottom bracket ensuring it was lathered in plenty of Teflon grease (to prevent moisture ingress).
I would be grateful if anyone could provide recommendations regarding corrosion prevention in this zone, in particular with respect to the philosophy on drainage/ventilation? Indeed I am concerned that, without close monitoring, the threads could corrode over time and ruin the frame.
If the Genesis philosophy is to keep the bottom bracket shell completely sealed, then it has failed in my case and I would suggest more greasing is required on the lower screw, bottom bracket threads and seat post.
I contacted Genesis who recommended installing the bottom bracket with grease however regarding my findings they simply stated "Aside from maintaining the bike accordingly, nothing much can be done to reduce the rust build up". I was rather disappointed in their response and was hoping for some more detailed technical advice!
Consequently any advice on here would be much appreciated
Many thanks in advance
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Comments
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You are over reacting, that's not a lot of rust, that's a dusting of rust... a non issue. Stick a layer of copper slip on the threads and the bottom of the shell and happy daysleft the forum March 20230
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As above - that's hardly the end of the world. Just run a wire brush through the BB shell and then coat the inside with some spray grease, or similar, if it concerns you that much. Personally, I wouldn't worry about it..0
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As above that is nothing
Not an issue. chase the threads. New BB and carry on."Do not follow where the path may lead, Go instead where there is no path, and Leave a Trail."
Parktools :?:SheldonBrown0 -
Mine looks worse than that - but then it's my winter bike.
I just cleaned it up and put it all back together. Like others have said it's not going to cause you any problems.
It's worth draining the water out if you get caught in the rain - I was surprised how much came out when I removed my seatpost and tipped the bike up after getting caught out - on my summer bike with no mudguards and no drain hole.I'm left handed, if that matters.0 -
Coppaslip is not fitted on factory built bikes. Shame really as it solves the problems above.
I have am MTB that after one very wet ride, all the tubes filled with water. It did explain why it felt so heavy.http://www.thecycleclinic.co.uk -wheel building and other stuff.0
