Crank install

[Heuy]

I have to install my new M770 XT cranks this spring and can't decide how I want to do it.

To those of you out there who run external BB set-ups, do you have to mess with them much once installed?

I guess what I'm driving at is should I buy the tools and do it myself?

I'm fairly mechanical, anything that's counter-intuitive that I should know about?

[tedsti]

They usually come with the tools needed to install them and it is very easy. Just borrow the tools to get the old ones off if you need to.

[ironchefmpls]

I just made the switch from an old LX square taper crank and bottom bracket to the new XT. If your old BB is a Shimano square taper you need these tools:
1. Crank Puller (http://www.parktool.com/products/detail.asp?cat=26&item=CWP%2D6)
2. BB tool (http://www.parktool.com/products/detail.asp?cat=25&item=BBT%2D22)

This tool will install your new crank:
3. New BB tool (http://www.parktool.com/products/detail.asp?cat=25&item=BBT%2D9)

The small diameter wheel is important for installing the end cap. Not all BB tools come with this. It looks like a lot of parts in the box, but the install is pretty easy. I'd get the tools, cause one day, you may want to put the old parts on a different bike. Good luck.

[Standard]

Actually, Shimano was only sending out the tools with the XTR cranks the first season they came out. AFAIK, none of the newer ones come with tools.

External bearing stuff isn't too tricky. The key to making them last is to make sure you get the bottom bracket faced. That ensures that the two sides of the BB shell are parallel to each other.

Otherwise it's pretty straight forward. Just make sure you follow the torque specs for everything.

[AndrewMay]

I'm pretty sure you sold me an XT crankset, got it installed in about ten minutes. Check this out: http://www.pricepoint.com/detail/13024-325_PARB94-2-Accessories-42-Tools/Park-BBT-9-Bottom-Bracket-Tool---Hollowtech-II.htm

It would be worth buying the tool and doing it yourself.

[bash]

I have to install my new M770 XT cranks this spring and can't decide how I want to do it.

To those of you out there who run external BB set-ups, do you have to mess with them much once installed?

I guess what I'm driving at is should I buy the tools and do it myself?

I'm fairly mechanical, anything that's counter-intuitive that I should know about?

Congrats, I put mine on late last summer and I love it. Very easy, just follow the instructions for the BB spacers and you'll have it on in minutes. If you don't want to spring for BBT-9 tool I'll lend you mine. I'll likely be in your area over the weekend.

[4Screws]

Actually, Shimano was only sending out the tools with the XTR cranks the first season they came out. AFAIK, none of the newer ones come with tools.

External bearing stuff isn't too tricky. The key to making them last is to make sure you get the bottom bracket faced. That ensures that the two sides of the BB shell are parallel to each other.

Otherwise it's pretty straight forward. Just make sure you follow the torque specs for everything.


I use the german torque spec... good-en-tight

[gtbikes]

I just installed a FSA external BB and Afterburner crank. Went on like butter, very smooth. Awaiting Park tool (Go St Paul) order for new BB tool to tighten down. Pedros, Sette, nashbar, FSA all make external BB tools though.

[Heuy]

Thanks for the advice everyone.

I've gotten a PM on borrowing a tool that I'm going to take-up.

And, yep, I did sell you yours Andrew. I'm a slacker when it comes to winter projects.

[AndrewMay]

Get after it! We'll be biking before you know it! Its May next week!