Originally Posted by
smontanaro
Once you get it close, you can adjust the cups back and forth to achieve equal offset side to side. Also, based on a recent thread in CR, it seems you can adjust the spindle offset, as it is simply pressed into the bearings and can move side to side. The extra degrees of freedom should make setup easier. That means (I think) that getting the spindle length correct/close is the primary (only?) consideration.
Originally Posted by
SuperLJ
I think he meant because you can adjust Phil BB sets L or R to your heart's content to achieve the desired chainline/stay clearance. Just loosen one side and tighten the other to move the cartridge. Neither side is "fixed". Available with French threads. Pretty pricey, but maintenance-free and lasts forever. One of the few unimprovable bike parts.
Yep. This is what makes Phil BBs so nice. And not only do you have both L/R adjustable rings, but the spindle itself is only press-fit into the cartridge; there are no locating shoulders. Thus you can adjust your chainline beyond the +/- 5mm range that the rings allow by simple using a homemade press to offset the spindle in one direction or the other. However, this is also the one Achilles's heel of the Phil BB-- some have reported that their chainlines have spontaneously adjusted themselves! But in general, the Phil BBs are pretty great. That you can get rings for Italian, British or French BB shells makes them even better.