So based on the simplicity of FB’s reply and the lack of other responses, I think I may be over thinking this. I done a lot more research and have come to the following conclusions:

1. Try to clean up the original bottom bracket first. Don’t assume it is shot. You won’t know for sure until you get apart, cleaned and inspected. Every effort should be made to reuse the original BB as it is by far the easiest solution as well as the least costly and risky. Especially if the fixed cup decides it does not want to come off.

2. If it does need replacing, it can be replaced with a cartridge BB. There are quite a few to choose from. What I have to do is simply make sure it fits. Since there appears to be pretty good evidence that this is a Shimano BB-1055, I have to make sure I get a BB with threading of 1.370” X 24 tpi, a shell width of 68 mm, a spindle length of 113, chain line of 43.5 and a spindle that accepts square taper cranks (J.I.S. standard). What I don’t know is if the BB is symmetrical or asymmetrical. I can verify all this once I get the BB apart.

Does this sound about right? I apologize if I appear a little dense. This is the first time I have messed with a bottom bracket and all the numbers can be intimidating.


Thanks,
JC