Bicycle Mechanics - How else can I do this?

I don't know if it is possible but here goes:

Is there any other way I can get a crank off without using a crank extractor tool. Any ideas? Thanks.

Sometimes you can use a cheap bearing puller from auto parts store. Pry with something from the backside.Beat it with a big hammer.Hacksaw it off.How desperate are you and do you care about buggering something? I always use a puller.

Why? Pullers are damn cheap and one of the most specific tools you gan get. Pry bar would do it but really you would damage something.

Originally posted by TotalKos
I don't know if it is possible but here goes:

Is there any other way I can get a crank off without using a crank extractor tool. Any ideas? Thanks.

The correct answer is "No" You need a crank puller. If you try bashing the crank with a hammer, using a crowbar as a wedge, or any other cheap-o method, you are very likely to damage the crank and ruin the bottom bracket.

Bring it to your local bike shop. They will do it for a minimal charge or even free if they like you.

TK,
Previous posters are right. A crank extractor only costs US$10-15. I bought an inexpensive Lifu brand from Nashbar that works like a charm. It comes with a 14/15 double ended socket for removing the crank bolts. Not only does it make the job a snap, when you see how easy it is you will be encouraged to service your bottom bracket (if it is the old cup and cone type) on a regular basis. I was intimidated by the crank extraction process, but it is actually one of the easier things to do on a bike. Once you get a couple of tools like crank extractor and cassette lockring remover, you really start to feel like a bike mechanic! Be sure to get the right model. There is one for traditional square taper bb spindles and one for newer splined Shimano. Actually I guess there may be others for Isis bbs etc.

Two tips on using the crank extractor:
1. Make sure you remove the crank bolt washers before screwing the extractor in.
2. Be careful threading the extractor into the crank. The crank threads are very fine and the aluminum crank is much softer than the steel extractor. It is easy to strip the threads, which puts you back to square one.
Regards,
Raymond

Loosen the bolt, then ride out on the bike. When you are in the most inhospitable place ever, the crank will come off itself.

Originally posted by chewa
Loosen the bolt, then ride out on the bike. When you are in the most inhospitable place ever, the crank will come off itself. That method can also bugger a crankarm.Don't do it on anything you value.

What about tightening your bike to a tree with a strong strong rope, then put another strong strong rope of the same quality on one side on a big big truck and the other side of the strong strong rope on the crank. Then drive away in the opposite direction with the big big truck.

GreenLion

I did that already.... it didn't work.. Just kidding. Thanks all for your help. I have decided to buy the tool. I was reluctant to buy because of the (My gosh where does it end) theory.

I will let you all know how it turns out.

Theory?...what theory?

How about a cutting torch? :D :D :eek:

I agree whole heartedly Maelstrom, It aint a theroy, its a fact Jack!
It never ends..... "ooooohhhh look, shiny bike parts!!!"

Where does it end? Well, the desire to put on shiny new things never really does. BUT, there are really very few special tools that you need for bike work

Crank extractor $10-20
Chain whip (also called sprocket remover) $8-10
Freewheel or cassette lockring remover to fit your specific setup (Generally Park FR-1 for later Shimano freewheels, FR-5 for Shimano cassette lockrings.) $8-10
Cable/housing cutters - Park just came out with a new model that is worth every penny the $30-35. You can get inexpensive ones that may work OK.

To get a little more adventurous and depending on your bike

Appropriate headset wrenches (for threaded headsets)
Bottom bracket wrench (for older cup and cone setups)
Bottom bracket tool (kind of a socket) for Shimano cartridge bbs

No one thing is that expensive. Just buy them when you need them.

Originally posted by pokey
That method can also bugger a crankarm.Don't do it on anything you value.

Sorry, I was tryimg to make a joke

Originally posted by chewa


Sorry, I was tryimg to make a joke Joke or no, it is often recommended.Just pointing out the potential downside.

Originally posted by chewa


Sorry, I was tryimg to make a joke

well I got it straightaway chewa. guess its just our British sense of humour Huh !?......:lol: