Drivetrain Squeaking

steelo
steelo Posts: 542
edited February 2008 in MTB workshop & tech
Okay, so about 4 weeks back I began to notice a squeak in the drive-train. Sounded like a mouse inside the frame, only happened when I was pedalling, not free-wheeling. I took my bike to the LBS, they investigated, rode, cleaned, rode again, lubed, rode again and finally determined it was the BB on the way out. They replaced the BB and the bike ran smooth and silent as I expected it too.

Yesterday I found out the squeak is back!

What should I do? Troubleshoot the drivetrain myself, cleaning and lubing and test-riding, or just take it back in to the LBS?

Please help. It's only a squeak I know but it infuriates me as i'm pedalling!
Specialized Rockhopper '07
Trek Fuel EX8 '09

Comments

  • Have you tried a different set of pedals?
  • steelo
    steelo Posts: 542
    Yes, they were my first solution as one pedal had some graunching bearings. However the squeaking continued. This was prior to the new BB installment.
    Specialized Rockhopper '07
    Trek Fuel EX8 '09
  • Is it a full susser? I'm not sure, but it seems possible to me that it's the frame squeaking do to movement as you pedal.
  • steelo
    steelo Posts: 542
    The bike is a Specialized Rockhopper Disc '07 (Hardtail).
    Specialized Rockhopper '07
    Trek Fuel EX8 '09
  • cjw
    cjw Posts: 1,889
    A long shot maybe... but could it be your saddle. Mine squeeks a little and the sound was transmitted down the tube and it sounded as if the cranks or BB were squeeking.
    London to Paris Forum
    http://cjwoods.com/london2paris

    Scott Scale 10
    Focus Izalco Team
  • steelo
    steelo Posts: 542
    How did you fix the squeak? Or does it still squeak?
    Specialized Rockhopper '07
    Trek Fuel EX8 '09
  • cjw
    cjw Posts: 1,889
    Still squeeks :cry: I try to ignore it...
    London to Paris Forum
    http://cjwoods.com/london2paris

    Scott Scale 10
    Focus Izalco Team
  • redvee
    redvee Posts: 11,922
    If it squeaks when you pedal, then don't pedal :P
    I've added a signature to prove it is still possible.
  • Andy B
    Andy B Posts: 8,115
    Could be lots of things, saddle (check the screws that hold the hull to the upper), seatclamp

    good article on Sheldon's site... http://www.sheldonbrown.com/creaks.html
    2385861000_d125abe796_m.jpg
  • cjw
    cjw Posts: 1,889
    Got me thinking about my creaking and found this thread. I'll give my saddle an overhaul I reckon http://www.bikeradar.com/forum/viewtopic.php?t=12543640&highlight=creaking
    London to Paris Forum
    http://cjwoods.com/london2paris

    Scott Scale 10
    Focus Izalco Team
  • steelo
    steelo Posts: 542
    I'll try pedalling stood up, if the squeak stops then that would lead me to think its from the saddle area.
    Specialized Rockhopper '07
    Trek Fuel EX8 '09
  • cjw
    cjw Posts: 1,889
    I was about to post that, as that was how I initially tracked mine down.
    London to Paris Forum
    http://cjwoods.com/london2paris

    Scott Scale 10
    Focus Izalco Team
  • jpembroke
    jpembroke Posts: 2,569
    If it only happens when you are seated then it's probably the saddle.

    Also, try pedalling with one foot at a time. If it's a squeaky pedal this will reveal the guilty culprit. Try removing it, cleaning the spindle and the hole the hole in the crank, grease and refit.

    I once nearly went insane trying to work out the source of an infuriating squeak - turns out it was pedal. Took the above steps and it was solved.
    I'm only concerned with looking concerned
  • steelo
    steelo Posts: 542
    The only trouble with my pedals are;

    They are 2 weeks old and were bought to cure the first squeak - didn't fix it, therefore not the pedals. They are £15 wellgo forged 2 piece. SPD's are on the cards, just need the guts!

    My fingers are crossed that its the saddle.
    Specialized Rockhopper '07
    Trek Fuel EX8 '09
  • jpembroke
    jpembroke Posts: 2,569
    Saddle is always the first place I start. Remove, clean rails and clamp, refit. I hope that cures it. I sympathise, I really do.
    I'm only concerned with looking concerned
  • Jimbob_no5
    Jimbob_no5 Posts: 1,568
    mine squeaks when i pedal stood or sat, think ill do a bit of work after the weekends work
    Pinkbike

    I believe in only 2 things in life.
    1) Drink is not my friend
    2) D-Locking cnuts ;)
  • jpembroke
    jpembroke Posts: 2,569
    Hmm, chainring bolts, good call.
    I'm only concerned with looking concerned