Pedal Axle Grease
 

I tried out my new clipless pedals for the first time today, and right after, I noticed this thick greenish paste that looks like it oozed out of the left pedal axle. Is this excess grease normal? Should I have tightened that toothed ring near the axle?

It'd help if you let us know what pedals you have.

They're a pair of Shimano SPD-SL's, model PD-r540.http://bikeforums.net/attachment.php...hmentid=158975

Totally fine. Just wipe off the excess and continue to ride. You have purchased a perfectly capable/durable pedal.


It's called "weeping" and is totally normal on new or serviced articles that require grease/lubrication. The pedaling action has forced the excess to the path of least resistance, and out past the race. Shimano uses very high quality grease at the factory. It is good that you have the keen eye to notice these things, and you should be a great home mechanic once you learn the tricks and techniques.

Thanks, I'm at ease now! I'm paranoid about my bike ;)
By the way, what is that toothed ring on the axle between the thread and the pedal platform for? Does it tighten and loosen the bearings?

Did you put the new pedals on yourself? If so did you grease the threads?

Put them on myself, but didn't grease the threads. *Does so as of now*
Will the pedals get stuck in the crankarms?

yea, they are SUPER hard to get outwhen you want to change pedals, its terrible haha

You grease the pedals to reduce the probability that the aluminum you are threading into will corrode and seize the pedal like a wall street banker. This is not a problem that can happen quickly except in rare circumstances. Just, loosen them up, lube them up, tighten them, and ride happy.

It's the lock bolt. You loosen this to remove the axle assembly when lubricating or overhauling the pedal. The tool to use on this is made by Shimano (TL-PD40, I believe).

This

http://www.parktool.com/products/det...27&item=PW%2D4
is what you need to remove pedals.

or a regular 15mm wrench if he has one (little tougher to use)