Hey there, long time lurker, decided to make an account. Pulled out of the BMX scene, got into road bikes. I don't know too much about components; got into bikes mostly for the tinkering mechanical aspect. CLed a 1985 Fuji Espree, all original, decent shape, not ridden often. Overhauled the hub and pedal bearings, cleaned and re-greased drivetrain, tweaked derailleurs, etc. I still have to clean out the BB, still a bit daunting to me, because of the factory pressing of the crank arms. Seems to me that there are three options. A.) Spray Boeshield in it and leave it, get away with an unclean BB. B.) Try to figure out a way to take it apart without crank puller and avoid ruining it. Is this even possible on a multi-piece crankset? I did it to a few one piece cranks on cheapy BMXers. C.) Bite the bullet and buy a crank puller, which I'd hate to do, considering the very little usage. Which is the best option? Also, anyone have any recommendations on other modifications/upgrades for this? Its going to become a commuter. Any advice is duly appreciated!

You really do need a crank puller, but luckily they are cheap (~$20). Cleaning and regreasing the bottom bracket is something that you really should do on any older bike. You should also clean and re grease the headset as well. Most older bikes used ball bearings in the bottom bracket and headset. They work well, but require periodic maintenance. If you have a bicycle co-op near by they will have the tools you could use to perform the needed maintenace, and likely someone who can provide technical assistance.

Oh, in addition to the crank puller, you likely need a special wrench for the BB and probably the headset as well. There are possible workarounds, but IMO they tend to risk damage to the parts that offset the limited cost savings of purchasing the proper tools.

^Agree. If you intend to ride this bike or others like it, you WILL need the crank puller, bottom bracket tool and spanner, and decent headset wrenches. Just spend the money as you need the tools. That way, you can spread it out over a period of months. Do start with the crank puller and bottom bracket wrench. You can get away with only removing the adjustible side of the bottom bracket and leave the fixed side.

I want to echo what others have said and will say...ALWAYS use the correct tool for the job.

If you have an old school local bike shop, you might be able to buy a crank puller on its last leg for real cheap. Although, I must say, it is worth any expense to clean the BB on your beautiful, 30 y/o bike