Originally Posted by
coolkat
Just use a bench vise. It's easiest if the bike is stripped down, but it can be done with just the wheels off. Put a socket over the end of the cotter, and start cranking down on the threaded part. Cotter should pop out, and be in good enough condition to reuse. I've had success with this method on 4 different cranksets.
This is an excellent method if one has a decent vise. I don't think of it because I have consistent good luck with a hammer, and it's a PIA to lift bike and position the crank and socket while tightening the vise (a friend helps).
Also, I've seen the thrust plate on some vises fail, so care should be taken to be sure vise is built for this kind of load. The general rule is that if you need a cheater bar on the handle, you're nearing or passing the design load.