Bicycle Mechanics - BB creak.

I've now extracted my bb (Shimano sealed unit) as I was getting an irritating down there when pedalling. If a sealed bb seems to run smooth, does it in fact indicate the bb is actually ok?

Once I've reassembled and regreased everything the creak should go away, but as I've got the bb out it would be pointless to put it back in if it's worn in any way. I can't detect any free play at either end and turning it by hand it turns smoothly enough and I can't feel or hear anything that sounds or feels abnormal. Should I replace the bb as matter of course (it's about 3 years old, occasional use)?

Any other things I can look at before reassembly that could account for the creak while I have everything stripped down?

I've been researching this too since I've got the same problem. In Langley's "Complete Guide to Bicycle maint & Repair" it says to wrap plumbers teflon tape around the threads to eliminate clicks if you have a titanium frame. For what it's worth.....

I've been reading here for about 2 weeks. Seems like creaks never come from where we think they do. Are you certain the BB is the source?

It seems to be down that way. When it creaks it's usually when the pedals are in the same position as it were. Maybe bb shells get 'dry' as it were and just need a good dose of grease? I'm pretty convinced it is the bb area.

If there's no roughness and no play, then the BB should be good to go. It's a simple matter to replace anyway, so wait until it goes bad. It's not likely to lock up with no warning so you should have plenty of time to get a new one when the time comes.

Use a torque wrench when you reinstall the BB and the cranks Also, retorque your pedals if you haven't already done so. Lightly grease all threads.