This is a non-sealed, old bottom bracket from early 80s. Before going on a cross-country tour, I replaced ball bearing, cleaned and lubricated it. Half along the way, some 2000 miles later, it developed a play that could no longer be adjusted. The bearing races were not smooth anymore. Lubricated and tighten up the best I could, in Thunder Bay, Ontario.

Now, approximately 2000-3000 miles later, it finally gave up.

Yesterday, when pedaling hard up hill, the cup on the right side of the axle, just broke in a half.

I will inspect closely later after removing it, to see what caused it to break. Maybe stress, metal fatigue, or maybe this broken bearing ball retainer that cut through the cup's metal.


Any ideas?

I thought this could contribute to the forums and serve as an example of when new stuff matters and helps to avoid such accidents.

Now the problem for me is whether I will be able to remove the other part of the cup that is still screwed into the frame.

If successful, I should probably get a sealed bottom bracket that so many have recommended me to do long time ago.