Pictures would help. Seems like the "ring next to the crank arm" would be the lock ring that holds the adjustable cup in place. The cup is threaded into the BB shell. There should be some small holes in the face of the cup that are designed to receive a pin spanner tool. It shouldn't be too tight so you might be able to make de with needle nose pliers. http://www.parktool.com/blog/repair-...racket-service