Replacement Cotter Pin?
09-07-22, 08:02 PM
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Replacement Cotter Pin?
So, I've got hydraulic disc brakes that use a cotter pin to hold the pads in place, problem is that when I last went to clean the pads, my pin snapped. Is it safe to just use some spare wire to fashion a new pin? If not can anyone make some recommendations? Thanks in advance!
09-08-22, 12:07 AM
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It's good it snapped while working on it as it was fatigued and could've snapped during a ride with you losing your pads. I've used a cut-off bobby pin or section of a large size paper clip in a pinch. Later, you can get a new cotter pin from a shop (they prob have a bunch for free or buy a pack at you local hardware store.
09-08-22, 01:58 AM
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Goodness, I didn't know those were called cotter pins as well. My first bike had cotter pins in the cranks like these. I was wondering how you'd fit those in brakes!
If what you have is what I'm thinking of, I've always called those split pins, and they're easy to pick up at hardware stores or somewhere like eBay.
If what you have is what I'm thinking of, I've always called those split pins, and they're easy to pick up at hardware stores or somewhere like eBay.
09-08-22, 02:22 AM
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Replacements should be available from your local hardware store or nearest home center.
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09-08-22, 04:08 AM
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Two different assortments from Harbor Freight if you need variety, lots of size options 
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09-08-22, 10:54 AM
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Sure you can probably use a piece of wire. But something like stainless safety wire might be better. But it also depends on if the cotter pin or clip fastener was the only thing fastening them or was just for additional safety.
09-10-22, 05:32 PM
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I wouldn't trust a piece of wire for too long, unless maybe it was cut from a coat hanger. Your local shop should have a box of spares under the service counter.
09-11-22, 11:27 AM
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Goodness, I didn't know those were called cotter pins as well. My first bike had cotter pins in the cranks like these. I was wondering how you'd fit those in brakes!
If what you have is what I'm thinking of, I've always called those split pins, and they're easy to pick up at hardware stores or somewhere like eBay.
If what you have is what I'm thinking of, I've always called those split pins, and they're easy to pick up at hardware stores or somewhere like eBay.
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09-11-22, 12:35 PM
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...two peoples separated by a common language. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cotter_pin
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09-11-22, 01:38 PM
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...I opened this thread, expecting to find some discussion about cottered cranks on bicycles. i discover it is about disc brakes on bicycles. Now I will be depressed for the rest of Sunday.
...I opened this thread, expecting to find some discussion about cottered cranks on bicycles. i discover it is about disc brakes on bicycles. Now I will be depressed for the rest of Sunday.
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09-11-22, 01:46 PM
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And maybe about which jargon or colloquialisms we should abide by!
09-11-22, 01:46 PM
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In industry we have several kinds of cotter pins, split, R-clip, split ring, etc., all called cotter pins because they do the same job as those on old bicycle cottered cranks they prevent axial movement.
Last edited by easyupbug; 09-11-22 at 01:46 PM. Reason: For you 3alarmer
09-12-22, 01:34 PM
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My most recent reuse/repurpose/recycle of an old, unused bicycle part. Made from and old blade spoke to replace a lost pin on my lawn tractor mowing deck. — Dan
