Sticky Sylvans
 

I've been having problems with my mks sylvans. When i bought them the bearings seemed to be too tight or dry, so I opened them up and regreased and readjusted them so they were buttery smooth. after about 10 miles, the cone on the left pedal had tightened itself against the bearings so that it would stick in one position if my foot was not clipped in. This makes it pretty much impossible to clip in my left foot when I am riding, I have to stop, stick my foot in the clip and take off. by now I have rebuilt the left pedal 4 or 5 times. it keeps tightening up no matter how much I tighten the locknut. The right pedal is fine, I only had to adjust it once. I am at my wits end. wtf is going on? Any tips or tricks?

adjust the bearings the right way.

thank you so much for the helpful advice

You could try a thin washer between the cone and locknut.

I don't ride sylvans but I am pretty sure this would work.

Sounds like your missing the keyed washer between the cone and the locknut.

That would be correct.

wow, a correct and useful answer in only seven more words than 'adjust the bearings the right way'.

gives me hope for the internet.

Besides the slotted washer... When you are tightening the lock nut... make sure its not turning the cone. I've used a hook pick with some success to hold the cone in place while tightening. (Prolly noticed that its a freaking tight squeeze for wrenches!)

Lastly, pull the balls out and check for any that have pits... if you replace one, replace them all on that side. Then see if cup has any dings or scuffs.

Good luck with it... Sylvans are smoooooooth when set up right.