Originally Posted by
Canal_Rider
How many sets of new chainrings is one set of bearings good for? Although the bearings are cross threaded in the bottom bracket, they are threaded on all the way and I might as well run a new drive train with the same bearings. They should be good for a couple of new drivetrains, right? Thanks for all the advice.
btw: This is an XT outboard bearing setup.
Outboard bearings are very picky about alignment across the bottom bracket shell. With one side cross threaded, there's going to be a massive (in bearing terms) misalignment of the axle as it passes through the cups. At best, you'll have drastically reduced bearing life. Worst case, it'll feel so bad you won't even want to ride it.
For a good installation, sure, good bearings will generally outlast your interest in the bike. I wouldn't bet on that happening in this situation.