How to Remove BMX Bottom Bracket?
It hasn’t been long since I realized that my BMX bike needs a new bottom bracket; and since then, I have been dreading the process of removing it.
That’s why, I have been researching thoroughly on how to remove BMX bottom bracket, and to my surprise, the process is quite easy as long as I have all the tools and know all the steps.
Since I had to go through hours of research for this, I decided to make it a little easier for you by adding every information I know right here; go through the article, and you will find everything you need to remove the bottom bracket.
What Is a BMX Bottom Bracket?
If you have a BMX bike, then you are probably aware of how important a bottom bracket is – alongside what happens if you don’t buy the right one.
After all, the bottom bracket will let you spin the cranks freely while you are pedaling your bike. Thanks to the construction of the bracket, it can be executed perfectly. Hence, it is one of the core components of your BMX bike.
The bottom bracket is made of a center spacer piece and 2 individual bearing rings. Other than that, you will also find spacers and shims in its construction, which makes sure it does its job correctly.
You will find them in mainly two different designs – loose ball and sealed ball bearing. Moreover, you will also find the BMX brackets in both external and internal options.
Even though BMX bottom brackets seem identical, there are different aspects in each of the bikes that should be considered when removing or replacing them.
How to Remove BMX Bottom Bracket?
Removing or installing the BMX bottom bracket is quite simple as long as you know the instructions properly. And we are here to provide you just that, so you face no struggle when you are at it.
- Tools You Will Be Needing
There are a few tools that you will need to gather before you start the removal process of your BMX bottom bracket. If you don’t have these tools already, then it is best to buy them before you get started.
First of all, you will be needing a torque wrench as well as an adjustable wrench for the process of loosening up the components and removing them. So make sure the wrenches are strong and working properly.
Second of all, for the thread preparation, you will need a lubricant, an anti-seize compound as well as a thread-locker. Most importantly, you will definitely need a bottom bracket tool for the process.
- Remove the Cranks
You will see that your BMX bottom bracket is connected to the pedals with the help of some levers – those levers are the cranks. And if you want to remove the bottom bracket, then the most essential step is to remove the cranks. First, identify them accurately, then remove them.
- Remove the Non-Drive Cup
Afterward, for the tool fittings, it is essential to inspect the threaded cup. Once you have done that, you will have to insert the tool fully. Then, remove the non-drive cup by turning it counter-clockwise.
- Remove the Internal Sleeve
After you have removed the non-drive cup, you will have to search if there is any internal sleeve at the bottom bracket or not. If there is, then you will have to remove it. Moreover, check if any spacers require reassembly.
- Remove the Drive Cup
Now that you have removed the cup on the left-side and the internal sleeve, it is time to remove the cup on the right side, which is also called the drive cup. Once you have removed that, the removal of the bottom bracket is successful.
Final Words
If you go through all the information provided in this article properly, then you will know everything you need to know about how to remove BMX bottom bracket.
And with ample knowledge, you will be able to go through the process without any hassle.
