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Hi guys, thought I'd seek some advice. Had the bottom bracket replaced on my 2013 Giant Trance X2, the LBS said the old one was removed as 'normal', but the new bracket was able to be pressed in by hand and didn't need a 'press tool' - which he said was a little worrying.
It's the first time the bracket has been changed, the bikes done a few 1000 miles I guess. Only just started noticing a little play in the cranks.
The new bracket was the XTR version.
Anyway, sent my shock to Mojo for a service, and when removing the drive side crank arm, part of the bottom bracket came out with the 'axle'. I'm a bit concerned so seeking some advice please - should I be worrying?
my xtr one was almost pressinable by hand
but its been flawless in the last 6 months and ridden through a lot of shitty weather, hub deep puddles etc
What make was the old one? Maybe try to get another of that make.
I had similar problems with an On-One Whippet. None were a tight fit (BB92) but one was so loose it would plop out in your hand if you held the frame up. Being an On-One I accepted it may not have the best tolerances.
Edit to add the BBs appeared to last OK, they can't go far with a crank installed.
FWIW with my Whippet the shop added a slither of Coke can to get a tight fit
Dab of Loctite? I went to an Industrial Fixings shop for some and asked for some Loctite which lead the guy behind the counter to raise his eyebrows and launch into a list of different sorts available. Apparently you can fine tune it to the extent of 'never ever move' type to 'I might want to undo it next week'!
You shouldn't worry but you shouldn't ignore it.
Leaving it that loose could (and I'll stress could) let it move in the frame causing wear to the frame and increasingly sloppy fit.
I've used PTFE tape on one of my frames with a loose press fit BB and it's done the job perfectly. You can also use the right threadlock/bearing fit to close up the gap.
The original bracket was a Shimano BB71 (XT), the new bracket is a BB91 (XTR)
It's a bit of a relief to know that it's a 'feature' more than a problem.
I was concerned about possible movement and frame wear, I'll have to try some plumbers tape or loctite (or maybe some coke!)to see if can get it fitting.
thanks guys!