Originally Posted by
Kenneth
I just assumed I needed one. When I got the left cup off, all the ball bearings just fell out. I would like the bike to have some new stuff on it, and I think a new bottom bracket is a good investment considering the simplicity of a fixed gear.
Simplicity is the process of
not complicating your build, of which you will undoubtedly do if you intend to look for a replacement Swiss BB (you won't find one new, and the only good threadless one available is
Velo-Orange's $60 Gran Cru).
If the raceways are clean, clean them, and re-install the bearings. Don't like loose bearings? Install caged bearings. Source out BB spindle of proper width and raceway spacing (a English or French BB spindle should fit, depending on cup width) to your intended crankset, put it back together, and leave it at that.
There isn't anything easier then what I've listed above.
-Kurt
P.S.: Don't throw away that crankset.
P.P.S.: Is that seatpost still in the frame? If so, go and put that saddle back on it before you have a hell of a time getting it out without it.