Bottom Bracket Puzzler
#1
Thread Starter
Senior Member
Joined: Nov 2009
Posts: 82
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From: San Diego
Bikes: 2012 Masi Evoluzione, 2012 Cannondale R2 Tandem, 1992 Ellison Tandem, 1990 Trek 950 Singletrack, 1990 Trek 970 Singletrack, 2019 Schwinn Twin Tandem
Bottom Bracket Puzzler
I recently removed the Shimano Square Taper bottom bracket from my Trek 950 Single Track with the idea I would overhaul and reinstall it.
While removing the unit I noticed the two rubber dust seals (or grommets) were different sizes. The side of the BB that had the smaller, ill fitting seal was dirty and that side of the spindle was pitted compared to the side that had the correct size seal.
I've owned the bike since new, and had never touched the BB prior to this. I have no idea how two sized seals could have been installed... just doesn't make sense.
Now, I want to reinstall the BB but can't find a replacement seal that is correctly sized (see measurements below), any ideas where I can find a replacement? I've checked numerous grommet/seal mfrs and no one seems to have something remotely close to the following sizes; any help is appreciated:
A-Bore: 16.3 mm
B-Groove Width: 4.5mm
C-Groove Dia: 18.3mm
D-OD: 21mm
E-Thickness: 5mm
While removing the unit I noticed the two rubber dust seals (or grommets) were different sizes. The side of the BB that had the smaller, ill fitting seal was dirty and that side of the spindle was pitted compared to the side that had the correct size seal.
I've owned the bike since new, and had never touched the BB prior to this. I have no idea how two sized seals could have been installed... just doesn't make sense.
Now, I want to reinstall the BB but can't find a replacement seal that is correctly sized (see measurements below), any ideas where I can find a replacement? I've checked numerous grommet/seal mfrs and no one seems to have something remotely close to the following sizes; any help is appreciated:
A-Bore: 16.3 mm
B-Groove Width: 4.5mm
C-Groove Dia: 18.3mm
D-OD: 21mm
E-Thickness: 5mm
Last edited by trayraynor; 11-18-11 at 09:20 AM. Reason: Posted prior to completion
#2
Senior Member
Joined: Oct 2011
Posts: 109
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From: Denver, CO
Bikes: Airborne Manhattan Project, Quinta Roo Kilo, Schwinn Passage
Do you know anyone who owns a lathe? Can you tell what material is it made from?
#3
Map maker
Joined: Feb 2008
Posts: 728
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From: Richmond,VA
Bikes: Ventana El Ciclon, Walt Works 29er, Specialized Enduro (fixed up for my son).
did you ask shimano? maybe get a replacement BB if this one was assembled wrong or at least get the proper sized seal.
#4
Senior Member
Joined: Aug 2005
Posts: 33,657
Likes: 1,119
From: Pittsburgh, PA
Bikes: '96 Litespeed Catalyst, '05 Litespeed Firenze, '06 Litespeed Tuscany, '20 Surly Midnight Special, All are 3x10. It is hilly around here!
I assume the bottom bracket isn't a real Shimano part since Trek (and most other makers) tend to use lower cost, no name components in areas where the part is hidden. Therefore, finding an suitable OEM replacement isn't likely.
However, have you considered replacing it with a sealed cartridge bottom bracket. These are low cost, durable and require zero mainrenance.
However, have you considered replacing it with a sealed cartridge bottom bracket. These are low cost, durable and require zero mainrenance.
#5
Banned.
Joined: Apr 2011
Posts: 937
Likes: 3
Bikes: CCM Torino 76
How old is the bike? IIRC, Trek started having their Singletrack line welded in Taiwan (instead of brazed in Wisconsin) in the mid nineties (1994?). I have seen some weird things on their Taiwanese assembled bikes - like pre-patched inner tubes and stuff.
Have you considered switching to a cartidge bottom bracket? THey are cheap and long lasting and available in most sizes.
Have you considered switching to a cartidge bottom bracket? THey are cheap and long lasting and available in most sizes.
#7
Senior Member
Joined: Aug 2005
Posts: 33,657
Likes: 1,119
From: Pittsburgh, PA
Bikes: '96 Litespeed Catalyst, '05 Litespeed Firenze, '06 Litespeed Tuscany, '20 Surly Midnight Special, All are 3x10. It is hilly around here!
#8
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Joined: Jul 2011
Posts: 122
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From: NJ
Bikes: mtn. bike
no such thing as a zombie thread
#9
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Joined: Feb 2007
Posts: 14,635
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From: Mid Willamette Valley, Orygun
Bikes: 87 RockHopper,2008 Specialized Globe. Both upgraded to 9 speeds. 2019 Giant Explore E+3
#11
Really Old Senior Member


Joined: Feb 2007
Posts: 14,635
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From: Mid Willamette Valley, Orygun
Bikes: 87 RockHopper,2008 Specialized Globe. Both upgraded to 9 speeds. 2019 Giant Explore E+3
#12
Banned
Joined: Jun 2010
Posts: 43,586
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From: NW,Oregon Coast
Bikes: 8
Un screw whats there, look for a replacement, install it .. the British BB thread standard remains Common.
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