How to Install a Splined Crank With Grease

Bicycle cranks come in multiple designs. The design influences the method and tools required for installing a crank. Spline cranks feature a series of internal splines at one end of each crankarm. These internal splines mate with the external splines that are part of the bottom bracket spindle. The use of grease on the splines facilitates both installation and removal of the crankarms. Proper alignment of the splines helps ensure the effective mating of the crankarm to the spindle.

Things You'll Need

  • Clean rags
  • Bicycle grease
  • 8 mm hex key
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Instructions

    • 1

      Use a clean rag to remove any grime or dirt from inside the splines of both the crank and the bottom bracket spindle. Clean the threads inside each end of the bottom bracket spindle as well.

    • 2

      Use a second clean rag, or just your finger, to apply a coating of grease to the splines on both ends of the bottom bracket spindle. Apply grease to the threads inside the end of each spindle, as well.

    • 3

      Turn the bottom bracket spindle so that any one of the splines is positioned at 12 o'clock.

    • 4

      Orient the right crankarm to the right side of the spindle with the arm pointed at 6 o'clock.

    • 5

      Press the right crankarm onto the spindle. Thread the crankarm fixing bolt into the side of the crank by hand until the bolt is seated.

    • 6

      Hold the crankarm to provide leverage, and tighten the bolt fully, using an 8 mm hex key.

    • 7

      Orient the left crankarm with the left side of the bottom bracket spindle so that the end of this crankarm points in a direction directly opposite the end of the other crankarm.

    • 8

      Thread the crankarm fixing bolt into the side of the left crankarm by hand.

    • 9

      Grip the crankarm to provide leverage, and use the 8 mm hex key to tighten the bolt fully.