FSA Gossamer Cross MEGAEXO- removing crank
 

So I've got an older cross bike with a FSA Gossamer crank, but I don't understand the removal process on my new bike, and the manual was useless. Likewise a search of the internet is coming up short, so I defer to the experts at BF (is this just a new model?).

My older crank just has a hex bolt fitting that removes the non-drive side crank arm. This one has the "M17" bolt inside of what the instructions (linked here) seem to be calling the "QR-17 self-extracting bolt", which supposedly comes pre-installed. Since I got the bike all assembled, I can't figure out how to get this off. I tried loosening it with a hex key and it started to loosen but then felt tight after a turn or so. It gets tight turning it clockwise as well. Scratching my head here.

http://bikeforums.net/attachment.php...hmentid=407514

edit: Just found this: http://www.parktool.com/blog/repair-...elease-systems

So do I need to take the self-extracting bolt off in order to remove the crank bolt? It would seem that way from my experience of loosening and not being able to get it off. Now I have to buy another tool if that's the case.

The bolt will get tight just before it pull the arm off the BB axle , this is normal . QR-17 self-extracting bolt is what it is . Maybe this will help , Park Tool Co. » ParkTool Blog » Self Extracting or One-Key Release Systems

Ha, you beat me to it. Doesn't it look like from the picture on the Park site, that you have to remove the QR-17 self-extracting bolt, before you can completely remove the M17 bolt to remove the crank? Or does self-extracting mean that it gets hard because that's the resistance pushing against the bolt to get the crank to extract itself? Ah, I think I'm starting to see what's going on here.

does self-extracting mean that it gets hard because that's the resistance pushing against the bolt to get the crank to extract itself? yes this is what I mean .

yes

Main problem with the crank is the need for someone else to hold the crank on the other side when you finally torque it to spec on reassembly. It is very difficult to do by yourself to the specified
torque.