I noticed that my mid 90's Univega has the cranks that where mentioned in a recall about 15 years ago and doubt very much there is a chance of Shimano replacing them this late in the game, they are Alivio FC-MC12, at this time there is no problem and they have made it this long, but I really like this bike and know eventually things will need replaced. Might as well start with them.

How do I know what cranks to get to replace them?

Would it be just any three ring similar tooth count with square tapered bb or is there more too it?

Thanks for any help.

You need to pick a crank that uses the same length spindle as the bottom bracket you have. Or fit a new bottom bracket, which isn't a whole lot of money.

But shimano was honoring the recall as recently as this spring. Probably still are.

Either way, get rid of that crank. Crank failures are no fun!

I beleive a recall is a recall contact shimano and see what they say.

O.K, I'll give them a call Tuesday, I guess the worst they can say is no. I doubt I push this bike enough to cause the cranks to brake here in Florida, it is mostly used for commuting and light trail riding. The hardest thing it might climb is a curb or cypress knee, lol.

Wow! Just got off the phone with Shimano and explained to them I got the bike 2nd hand and if they still honor the recall and he said that it will be sent out as soon as I take it to a shop and let them order the parts. I asked about doing it my self and explained I live about an hour from a bike shop he said he would send it to me if I would be able to do the work! It includes a front derailer, chain, BB and of course the new cranks.

Whitey 818,
Isn't it great when you get a technician or parts man who is into customer service!
I just hate it when they whine like the cost was coming out of their own pocket... or that it is going to require a little work on their part.
Good customer service leaves me feeling good, and wanting to shop there again.

Yes it does, I told him that I got it 2nd hand and was having no problems at all, was just really only concerned after reading the recall. Would have been happy if he just told me an affordable replacement for me to buy for peace of mind but was really insistant on getting the parts to me. Was very shocked to deal with a big company that personal and friendly.

Well got the stuff from Shimano yesterday, much faster than I expected. They gave me a new chain, BB, crank set and front derailer. All very low end stuff, the bb is a un26, the cranks are FC-M191, and the top derailer is a c050. I am going to install the new stuff, except the derailer, nothing wrong with mine, but start looking for atleast a better crank and BB. I kinda thought they would atleast give me something comparable to what I have in quality but its basically all free just to install.