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Bottom bracket - sounds like has sand

Old 03-13-07, 07:56 AM
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Bottom bracket - sounds like has sand

Ever since I rode near a beach it has sounded like my bottom bracket/bearings has sand in it, so I'm thinking it does. It's a constant scratching/sandy sound. What's the best way to get it out of there? Will I have to pull the whole thing apart? Is there a danger of damage if I don't? Can just lubing in there do it (and if so, what lube)?

Thanks!
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Old 03-13-07, 09:08 AM
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If you're talking about your Alpe D'Huez, you probably need to replace the bottom bracket. That requires special tools. I'm thinking that you might be better off taking it to a shop.
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Old 03-13-07, 09:39 AM
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Did you check it without the chain? Without the pedals?

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Old 03-13-07, 10:24 AM
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Originally Posted by NoRacer
Did you check it without the chain? Without the pedals?
A good point. Did you just ride near the beach or actually stop and put the bike down in sand? I can't see sand getting into the bottom bracket just by riding by, but getting onto the chain and around the pedals is quite possible.
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Old 03-13-07, 11:42 AM
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Hmm not sure but I've lubed and cleaned the chain (not with a brush though) many, many times since then and i still get it.
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Old 03-13-07, 05:08 PM
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I've had this problem with sand in my fixed chain, and I can't get it to go away. I suspect it's your chain, but the only way to find out is to pull the crank.
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Old 03-13-07, 05:12 PM
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Take off the chain and make sure the pedals are still when you turn the crank by hand. THEN you can isolate the noise. FEEL for the noise.
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Old 03-13-07, 05:14 PM
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cont...If there is sand in the BB and it is making noise, you are grinding away the races and bearings.
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