Maintaining your bike is essential to keep it in top condition, and one of the most crucial tasks is removing the bike crank.
It’s important to know how to remove the crank safely and quickly, whether you’re doing regular maintenance, upgrading your parts, or replacing a worn-out crank.
However, if you don’t have a crank puller, you may be wondering how to remove the bike crank without one. Removing a bike crank without a puller can be challenging, but it is possible with the right tools and techniques.
By learning how to remove your bike crank without a puller, you can save money on expensive bike tools and do it yourself at home.
In this article, we’ll provide you with a step-by-step guide on how to remove bike crank without puller. We’ll walk you through the necessary tools you’ll need to get the job done and the proper technique to ensure a successful crank removal.
We’ll also share some tips for success to help you avoid common mistakes and challenges. By the end of this article, you’ll have the knowledge and confidence to remove your bike crank without a puller like a pro.
What is a crank puller?
If you’re a cyclist or a bike enthusiast, you’ve probably heard of a crank puller tool. It’s a tool that people use to remove a bicycle crank from the bottom bracket axle.
A crank puller tool typically comprises a series of nuts and bolts that work together to apply force to the crank, pulling it away from the axle.
A crank puller tool is an essential tool for anyone who wants to remove their bike crank for maintenance or replacement. It’s a relatively simple tool, but it can make a big difference when it comes to removing your bike crank quickly and easily.
Because of its lightweight and long-lasting properties, aluminum is used for the majority of cranks and bolts.
Aluminum is a popular choice for bike components because it’s strong enough to withstand the rigors of cycling while still being lightweight enough to help reduce overall bike weight.
However, if you don’t have a crank puller tool, you may be wondering how to remove your bike crank without one. While it can be challenging, it is possible with the right tools and techniques.
In the next section, we’ll provide you with a step-by-step guide on how to remove your bike crank without a puller. So whether you have a crank puller tool or not, read on to learn how to remove your bike crank safely and efficiently.
How to Remove Crankset Without Puller
You can take the crankset off your bike without a puller, but it may be difficult. Do it yourself with just a few tools and the right instructions. Using work gloves is the first step since protecting your hands is paramount.
Be sure there are no obstructions in your path and that you have your bike’s gear set to the largest cog to avoid snagging your hands or arms.
The next step is to release the crankset and bolt by taking off the corresponding nut or bolt. Slowly move the bolt or nut counter-clockwise; otherwise, the chain may jump off and strike your hands.
It depends on the sort of crank arm your bicycle has as to whether you need to pull the threads out, slowly thread the bolt, or remove the dust covers.
You can get rid of the washers that keep the wheels from moving in several directions once you loosen the crank bolt or nut.
You can access the washers with a bolt or a spanner tool; they sit beneath the bolt and nut threads. Once the washers are out of the way, you may examine the crank bolts using a magnifying glass.
Once the hex fitting tool and bolt are flush with the puller’s threaded coupler, you can stop turning the puller. With a screwdriver or a spanner, you must fully engage its 22 mm, thread it directly into the arms, and then tighten it.
To use, just turn the threaded coupler all the way and insert the puller’s spindle driver into the crank arms. To thoroughly tighten the cranks, insert the spindle driver into the corresponding slot and turn it counterclockwise.
Inspect the tightness of the cranks multiple times to make sure they are not slack. Turn the spindle clockwise until the crank arms are no longer connected.
The square taper crankset, threads, and bolt can all be easily damaged if you’re not careful, and you could even hurt yourself in the process. Carefully detach the crank arm puller instrument from the cranks.
Finally, you should check your bike’s functionality, paying careful attention to the crank arm, and repeat the preceding steps with the other crank.
The crankset can be removed from your bike without a puller if you follow these instructions. As long as you have the correct equipment, know what you’re doing, and take safety measures, it’s a simple task.
Tips for Success
Removing a bike crank without a puller may seem like a daunting task, but with the right tools and techniques, it can be done safely and successfully. Here are some tips to ensure that your crank removal process goes smoothly:
Use the right tools
The most important factor in removing a crank without a puller is having the right tools. Make sure you have an 8 mm Allen key and a crank remover tool that fits the specific type of crank you have. Using the wrong tools can damage the crank or the tool itself.
Loosen the chain
Before starting the removal process, shift the gears so that the chain is the loosest. This will prevent the chain from getting caught and making the work difficult.
Remove the pedals
As a preliminary step, remove the pedals first. This will prevent them from getting in the way when working and affecting the rotation of the bottom bracket.
Check for a washer
After removing the crank bolt, check for the presence of a washer. If there is one, make sure to remove it before working on the crank. Leaving the washer attached can cause the tool to not be installed correctly and damage the crank.
Handle the screw thread carefully
The most crucial part of removing the crank without a puller is handling the screw thread carefully. Make sure the thread of the tool fits tightly into the thread of the crank to avoid damaging the screw threads on the crank side.
Tighten the tool enough so that the screw thread doesn’t break when pressure is put on it.
Tighten the shaft part of the tool
To remove the crank, tighten the shaft part of the tool with a monkey wrench. Tighten it to some extent but not too much to avoid breaking the crank or the tool.
By following these tips, you can successfully remove your bike crank without a puller. Remember to take your time, be patient, and handle the process with care.
Conclusion
In the end, removing a bike crank without a puller is easy and straightforward. All you need are a few simple tools and some patience.
To summarize the steps, first, remove the crank bolts using a socket wrench, then slide off the washers, and finally tap the crank arm gently until it comes off the spindle. Remember to be careful and patient during this process to avoid damaging your bike or injuring yourself.
The benefits of being able to remove a bike crank without a puller are numerous. Firstly, it saves money, as you won’t have to purchase a specialized tool that you may only use once or twice.
Secondly, it saves time, as you can remove the crank quickly and easily with basic tools you likely already have in your toolbox.
Finally, being able to perform this task yourself gives you a greater understanding of your bike and its components, which can come in handy for future repairs and maintenance.
If you’re up for the challenge, we encourage you to try removing your bike crank without a puller and share your experience with us.
Don’t be afraid to ask for help or advice from a professional bike mechanic if you need it. With some practice and patience, you’ll be able to remove your bike crank without a puller like a pro.
