Bicycle Mechanics - Hollow tech II crankset removal

I think I already know the answer to this question, but to disassemble a DA 7800 (Hollowtech II) crankset, I need this little tool, right?

http://i2.photobucket.com/albums/y18/CalOso/duraacetool.jpg

You do know the answer, but you could improvise, too. I just keep a couple TL-FC16s around, in my home and mobile tool kits and in my backpack (had a few from buying a few cranks anyways, they're cheap if you need to buy one). If I couldn't find one I'd probably grab my spreading pliers.

i just used a needle nose plier. works well because you dont need massive torque

i just used a needle nose plier. works well because you dont need massive torque

You risk marring the cap that way. It's a dura ace crank, you should be able to afford the $2 plastic tool :P

Or buy one of these
http://www.nashbar.com/bikes/Product_10053_10052_125115_-1_201492_10000_201508
and you are covered for the BB cups as well.

You risk marring the cap that way. It's a dura ace crank, you should be able to afford the $2 plastic tool :P
+1

Yeah, I think I may be able to scrape enough to buy the tool. I was just trying to save myself a trip to the bike shop. Of course, Shimano could have made it a standard hex head, but that would be much too easy, wouldn't it?

Yeah, I think I may be able to scrape enough to buy the tool. I was just trying to save myself a trip to the bike shop. Of course, Shimano could have made it a standard hex head, but that would be much too easy, wouldn't it?

Dunno, a standard hex might result in a heavier cap? But then again that cap is useless once the arms are torqued down anyways...

So, its function is like the top cap on a threadless stem? Just sets the bearing load and then it's essentially a dust cap?

So, its function is like the top cap on a threadless stem? Just sets the bearing load and then it's essentially a dust cap?

Correct

Be sure to loosen the bolts (6) before trying to loosen 5 or it will take lots of torque. Remember you're doing it in reverse order from the steps shown.

And this explains my feelings towards Shimano - which can't be printed in a family publication.

And this explains my feelings towards Shimano - which can't be printed in a family publication.

It could be that they realized how easily these new external bearing crank sets could be stolen with standard tools...and although this doesn't make it any harder, it may not be quite so obvious. Although this theory stumbles when you realize that most thieves probably have all the proper tools and knowledge.

-Jeremy