The Fluid Nitro Mountain Bike Crank Removal: 7 Steps DIY!
You’ve got a broken crank on your fluid nitro mountain bike, and you don’t know how to get it off. Imagine spending an entire day biking around town, only to have to call a tow truck to take your bike to the shop because you can’t remove your crank. That’s not a fun experience at all. Read on to learn how to remove a crank from a fluid nitro mountain bike in just 7 easy steps.
7 Steps Of The Fluid Nitro Mountain Bike Crank Removal Process
- Step 1: Detach The Pedal From The Crank
- Step 2: Remove The Cap From Crank Center
- Step 3: Loosen The Pinch Bolts Using An Allen Key
- Step 4: Remove The Washers
- Step 5: Remove The Spindle From The Crank Arm.
- Step 6: Pull Out The Crank Arm
- Step 7:Clean And Polish As Needed Install New Crank Arm And Spindle
Now we are going to discuss each step:
Step 1: Detach the pedal from the crank
To detach the pedal from the crank, first, remove the screws that hold it onto the crank arm. Next, use an Allen key to loosen the pinch bolts. Finally, pull off the pedal.
Step 2: Remove The Cap From Crank Center
Next, take out the cap that sits on top of the crank’s center hub. This is where your chainrings and derailleur will attach to. Once you’ve removed this cap, it’s easy to remove any remaining parts from around the hub area. Be sure to clean everything up before moving on.
Step 3: Loosen The Pinch Bolts Using An Allen Key
Once the cap is out of the way, it’s time to loosen the pinch bolts. These bolts hold the crank arm onto the pedal post and spindle. Use an Allen key to twist them until they’re loose, then remove them one by one using a wrench.
- 5mm Allen key
- 2 Small bolts
Step 4: Remove The Washers
Next, remove the washer that sits between the crank arm and pedal post. This washer helps to reduce friction when turning the crank.
Step 5: Remove The Spindle From The Crank Arm
Finally, pull out the spindle from within the crank arm. Be careful not to damage it during removal – a damaged spindle will result in poor bike performance! If necessary, you can also unscrew it using an Allen key.
Step 6: Pull Out The Crank Arm
Once everything is loose, it’s easy to remove the crank arm from the pedal post. Start by pulling gently on one side at a time, then lift and pull until it comes free. Be sure to clean everything up before moving on.
Step 7: Clean And Polish As Needed Install New Crank Arm And Spindle
Now it’s time to reinstall the crank arm and spindle.
Now, How To Install New Cranks In Fluid Nitro Mountain Bikes?
Follow these five steps to re-install cranks in your fluid nitro mountain bike:
- Step 1: In the 6 o’clock position, push the right crank onto the spindle.
- Step 2: In the 12 o’clock position, push the left crank onto the spindle.
- Step 3: Use an Allen key to screw in the replacement crank bolt
- Step 4: Tighten the pinch bolts and replace the compression cap
- Step 5: Reattach the crank arms to the pedals
Step 1: In the 6 o’clock position, push the right crank onto the spindle:
In the 6 o’clock position, push the right crank onto the spindle. Make sure it’s lined up correctly – if not, screw in an Allen key until it is. Then tighten the pinch bolt and replace the compression cap.
Step 2: In the 12 o’clock position, push the left crank onto the spindle:
In the 12 o’clock position, push the left crank onto the spindle. Make sure it’s lined up correctly – if not, screw in an Allen key until it is. Then tighten the pinch bolt and replace the compression cap.
Step 3: Use an Allen key to screw in the replacement crank bolt:
Once the cranks are on correctly, screw in the replacement crank bolt with an Allen key. Be sure to torque it to 95-100 Nm (7-7.5 ft/lbs).
Step 4: Tighten pinch bolts and replace compression cap:
Finally, tighten the pinch bolts and replace the compression cap.
Step 5: Reattach crank arms to pedals:
Reattach the crank arm(s) to the pedal spindle. Be sure not to overtighten – this can damage the crankset.
Also Read: 7 Easy Steps on How to Take Pedals Off a Bike
Essential Tools You Need For This DIY
- Old Rags
- Spanner
- Screwdriver
- Allen Keys
- Bike Repair Stand or Hang it
- Rubber Gloves
- Chain lube
Old Rags:
Old rags are used to clean the area around your bike for better access.
Spanner:
A spanner is typically a short, claw-like tool with a long handle that can be used for tightening or loosening bolts and nuts.
A small wrench cannot do this job as easily because it does not have enough leverage to push down on the bolt head from above very far at all – so even if you were able to fit it over the nut in question, there’s no way that you could tighten it by hand without damaging your bike frame (which would be bad ).
Screwdriver:
A screwdriver is used to turn screws – in this case, the screws that hold the crank arms onto the pedals.
Allen Keys:
Allen keys are a type of key commonly found in-home repairs and car maintenance. They have a wide range of shapes and sizes, so they’re perfect for removing bolts with different head types (like those holding bike parts together).
Bike Repair Stand or Hang it:
A bike repair stand can be a convenient way to work on your bike, as you can recline it and use both hands to hold the bike while you work.
You could also choose to hang your bike by its handlebars if space is limited. Alternatively, using a strap will keep the bike stationary while you’re working.
Rubber Gloves:
It’s always a good idea to wear rubber gloves when working with any type of metal – whether that’s fixing your own bicycle or taking someone else’s apart in an emergency!
Chain lube:
Chain lube is a must-have for keeping your bike’s gears and chains running smoothly. After finishing your bike repair, make sure to apply a light coat of chain lube to all moving parts.
Also Read: 10 Easy Steps on How To Remove Rust On Bike Chain
Conclusion:
Congratulations! You’ve successfully replaced the crank arm and spindle in your fluid nitro mountain bike. The only thing left to do is ride – have fun!
By following this step-by-step fluid nitro mountain bike crank removal process, your bike will be back on the trail sooner and smoother than ever.
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FAQ’s
Do You Need A Crank Puller?
No, a crank puller is not necessary for this repair. A standard Allen key will work just fine. But it’s a good idea to have one on hand just in case.
How Does A Crank Puller Work?
A crank puller is a tool that uses leverage to remove a crank arm or spindle from a bike. It is typically made of metal and has several teeth on the jaws that grip onto the arm or spindle.
Why Is A Crank Puller Useful?
A crank puller can be useful for removing stubborn arms and spindles, as it provides greater leverage than a standard Allen key. Additionally, if the arm or spindle becomes stuck in the bike’s frame, using a crank puller can help free it quickly and easily.
How Do You Remove A Mountain Bike Crank?
There are two methods you can use to remove the crank from a mountain bike: 1) Using an Allen key 2) Use of a Crank Puller.
If using an Allen Key, insert the key into one side of the crank arm about halfway up and twist it counterclockwise until it comes out.
If using a Crank Puller, place your fingers around the circumference of the spindle and squeeze lightly while pulling upwards on the arm with your other hand.
How Do I Remove A Mountain Bike Crank Without A Tool?
If you don’t have a crank puller or Allen key, you can use your fingers to grip the circumference of the spindle and twist it counterclockwise.
Resources
- How to Change a Crank By WikiHow
- How To Get Bike Grease Out Of Clothes
- How to remove and replace bicycle cranks
Another Video Resources For Crankset Removal
