How to Remove an Octalink Crankset

The Octalink bottom bracket is named for its eight-spline spindle. The spindle provided an interface for Shimano's Octalink-compatible cranksets. Crankset removal presents an ideal opportunity to service the bottom bracket and clean the various parts of the crankset. Even if you're replacing the crankset, following proper procedure for removal facilitates the job and can prevent potential damage to valuable parts.

Things You'll Need

  • Pin spanner (as needed)
  • 8 mm Allen key
  • Crank arm puller (as needed)
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Instructions

    • 1

      Note the bolt at the center of either arm of the Octalink crankset. A left and right pedal "arm" constitute the left and right side of the crankset.

    • 2

      Determine whether there is a metal cap around the bolt. The cap will have two diametrically opposite holes. If there is no such cap, skip to Step 4.

    • 3

      Insert the tips of a pin spanner into the two holes. Turn the pin spinner counter-clockwise, and remove the loosened cap. Repeat for both sides of the Octalink crank.

    • 4

      Use an 8 mm Allen key to loosen the bolt at the center of each Octalink arm.

    • 5

      Note whether loosening of the bolt causes the crank arm to begin coming loose from the spindle. Some models of Octalink crankset have "self-extracting" crank arms. Removal of the bolt forces the crank arm away from the spindle.

    • 6

      Remove each crank arm bolt entirely. For self-extracting crank arms, pull each arm in turn from the spindle for removal. For models without self-extracting crank arms, proceed to Step 7.

    • 7

      Grab a crank arm puller. Rotate the handle counter-clockwise until the internal driver is fully retracted.

    • 8

      Thread the head of the crank arm puller into the center of either crank arm. Rotate the handle clockwise, until the internal driver forces the arm away from the spindle.

    • 9

      Remove the loosened arm, and repeat for the second Octalink crank arm.