Originally Posted by
oldsrocket1965
I am wondering what all I need to replace to get this bike into shape. I measured the chain with the Park tool. Both the .5 and .75 fit in quite easily so the chain is done. From what I've read the cassette needs to be replaced too. The chainrings also appear to be wearing unevenly.
If I replace my chainrings does that come with a new crank/bearings/bottom bracket?
If not do those items need to be replaced too?
Can I change gearing of the cassette or chainrings without any problem or do I need to keep it stock gearing?
You might find that a compatible and good square taper crankset doesn't cost any more than replacing the chain rings. This is frustrating if you like maintaining old stuff instead of throwing it away, but it's true. It's because of the markup on piece parts, and because the aftermarket is aimed at selling upgrades, not maintenance. If you replace the crank set with a similar one, you
might need to replace the bottom bracket, not because it's worn but because it's the wrong length. If you replace the crankset with a newer type it will use a new style of bottom bracket with a hollow shaft.
8-speed cassettes in 11-32 are very common and easy to find. You can pick between the Shimano version which has even spaced shifts, or the SRAM version which has smaller shifts in harder gears and bigger shifts in granny gears.
Changing the gearing is not difficult if you want to make it higher (bigger rings, smaller cassette). Making it lower would need more new parts.