FSA MegaExo bb problem - bearings are clicking
07-22-08, 11:42 AM
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FSA MegaExo bb problem - bearings are clicking
I already know about the notoriously bad design of FSA's MegaExo bottom bracket, but I've read that some people have had success when properly installed - to exact specs. And I've done just that, followed all the installation instructions precisely.
My problem is that I can hear the bearings clicking on the left-hand cup. The bottom bracket is brand new, which replaced a slightly used MegaExo (less than 500 miles) with the exact same problem. It's not that the left crank arm is too tight (too much load), because I can hear the clicking by simply turning the bearing faces with my fingers. My botton bracket is faced, I'm using the new o-rings, etc.
I cannot believe it's just coincidence that the exact same issue is present with both bottom brackets. Has anyone had a similar problem with the MegaExo and found a solution, or is there anyone that hasn't had any problems with the MegaExo?
Thanks for your help and suggestions.
My problem is that I can hear the bearings clicking on the left-hand cup. The bottom bracket is brand new, which replaced a slightly used MegaExo (less than 500 miles) with the exact same problem. It's not that the left crank arm is too tight (too much load), because I can hear the clicking by simply turning the bearing faces with my fingers. My botton bracket is faced, I'm using the new o-rings, etc.
I cannot believe it's just coincidence that the exact same issue is present with both bottom brackets. Has anyone had a similar problem with the MegaExo and found a solution, or is there anyone that hasn't had any problems with the MegaExo?
Thanks for your help and suggestions.
07-25-08, 09:26 PM
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Mega Exo BB
I'm only at 400 miles,but so far no problems.
When I bought the MOTO CF Imortal Force thru BikesDirect,a warrenty on the BB was one of the first questions I raised.
I've no idea who at their factory put the bike togeather but so far, the BB has been smooth as silk.
Have you talked with FSAs tech. department??(never hurts)
When I bought the MOTO CF Imortal Force thru BikesDirect,a warrenty on the BB was one of the first questions I raised.
I've no idea who at their factory put the bike togeather but so far, the BB has been smooth as silk.
Have you talked with FSAs tech. department??(never hurts)
07-25-08, 09:34 PM
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don't try this at home.
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Are you getting the clicking with the crankarm unbolted from the axle, and the axle+chainring assembly removed, too?
I would get clicking periodically from the left crankarm. It needed greasing on the splines and locktite on the two bolts on the left crank. Even then it still happened every few months.
I would get clicking periodically from the left crankarm. It needed greasing on the splines and locktite on the two bolts on the left crank. Even then it still happened every few months.
07-25-08, 10:45 PM
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The clicking sound was present even before I installed them. So yes, with the full crank assembly on, off, and every which way, the clicking sound is omnipresent.
I did contact FSA, and the tech person wouldn't admit that there may be a bearing problem no matter how many different ways I explained the symptoms and the steps I had taken to eliminate possibilities. She even suggested that I put plumbers tape on the bottom bracket threads, and that was after I told her several times that the clicking sound occurs with the BB cups uninstalled. It was a very frustrating conversation.
She knew full well what the problem was (I've learned subsequently how common it is) but did everything she could to dance around the issue. She said I would need to have my LBS determine whether the BB needed to be replaced. Bike shops are not keen on handling warranty claims for parts purchased through internet retailers…
In short, it's not worth the hassle to screw around with a $30 bottom bracket. Anyway, I'll ride with it until it dies and then go back to a reliable product line like Shimano.
I did contact FSA, and the tech person wouldn't admit that there may be a bearing problem no matter how many different ways I explained the symptoms and the steps I had taken to eliminate possibilities. She even suggested that I put plumbers tape on the bottom bracket threads, and that was after I told her several times that the clicking sound occurs with the BB cups uninstalled. It was a very frustrating conversation.
She knew full well what the problem was (I've learned subsequently how common it is) but did everything she could to dance around the issue. She said I would need to have my LBS determine whether the BB needed to be replaced. Bike shops are not keen on handling warranty claims for parts purchased through internet retailers…
In short, it's not worth the hassle to screw around with a $30 bottom bracket. Anyway, I'll ride with it until it dies and then go back to a reliable product line like Shimano.
