Drive Side Crank Arm Play
09-24-12, 08:56 AM
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Drive Side Crank Arm Play
Hi,
I am currently having an issue where my drive side crank has play laterally (left-right), roughly 5mm. Does this just require the crank arm to be tightened to the bottom bracket or is this some other issue? Thanks
I am currently having an issue where my drive side crank has play laterally (left-right), roughly 5mm. Does this just require the crank arm to be tightened to the bottom bracket or is this some other issue? Thanks
09-24-12, 08:59 AM
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Could be that the crank arm just needs to be tightened. Is the left also loose ? If so, then the BB itself might be loose.
When things are loose in general, it can be because they need to be tightened, or something related has cracked or broken, so a close look is often a good idea, so that you find the root cause.
When things are loose in general, it can be because they need to be tightened, or something related has cracked or broken, so a close look is often a good idea, so that you find the root cause.
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09-24-12, 09:09 AM
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At the moment, it only appears to be only the drive side that has play and is loose. I will pick up a crank puller this evening to give it a closer look!
09-24-12, 10:16 AM
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You likely won't need a crank puller, as it should come off just by removing the crank bolt/nut. The arm is likely ruined and will need to be replaced. They usually click or creak before becoming that loose, warning you of the need to tighten them.
Last edited by cny-bikeman; 09-24-12 at 10:21 AM.
09-24-12, 11:07 AM
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You only detect play on one side? First, make sure that it is the crank arm that has play, not the pedal. Play on one crank arm suggests the fixing bolt on that side is loose. Take it all the way out, remove the arm, examine the mating surface of the crank arm for damage and replace if necessary. Otherwise, remount the arm and torque the fixing bolt properly. Check the other side while you're at it.
09-24-12, 07:53 PM
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I've re-tightened the fixing bolt and have my fingers crossed that this has fixed the problem because there is no more play in the crank. Hopefully nothing is worn. I will completely take everything apart tomorrow.
09-24-12, 08:08 PM
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As long as it stays tight, there should be little or no damage done. Good luck. If it loosens, replacement might be necessary.
09-25-12, 04:51 PM
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