Removing a Stuck Crankset: Some Caveats
This method of removing a stuck crankset has been useful to me a number of times, with the problem of unyielding crank arms. With s bike stand, you only have so much force you can use with one arm. You may find that you are rotating your crank puller ( with a wrench ) but have come to a point where you no longer can get the leverage to help turning it. Some people may use a mallet in this case, but I find the method in the video more effective.
When any great force is being applied to bikes, or any mechanical device for that matter, it’s important to make sure:
- that it’s worth doing it
- you don’t break something else in the process
- you don’t cause yourself injury
In this case, the crankset needed to come off because it was so dirty. The other alternative was to take off the chain rings while leaving the spider fixed onto the spindle. However, with this unusual Thun Silverton crank, that idea wasn’t an option; it doesn’t have any chain bolts, and the rings are fixed and unremovable. Who came up with that stupid idea?
Tools and Technique
- Large adjustable wrench
- Crank tool puller ( Pre-1982 French Info )
It’s very important to keep the bike secure as you apply the force with your foot. Otherwise, the chances of an accident increase exponentially. Most of all, protect the frame and the other crank arm. Using a large block of wood instead of the cinder block I used would offer a better safeguard against damage, as even the slightest graze of bare metal against the cinder block could ruin the frame. Nevertheless, a cinder block is heavy and grips to the ground, which is ideal in this case.
An Alternative Method
A simpler method to remove a stuck crankset is to simply stand over the bike, holding the saddle and handlebars, and applying your foot to the wrench. A lot more power is possible with applying force with your foot, but the bike will try and roll forwards as you push down in the wrench. It is possible to hold the bike and push down with your leg at the same time, but it’s tricky. It is can also be a bit dangerous if you lose your balance, but it works for me. Check the video below for how I managed to remove a really stuck Suntour crank.
I have one of these chainsets on a mid 90s Raleigh Scorpio and, yes, I can confirm they are horrid.
I really want to replace it. Would I be correct in thinking its just a standard square tapered fitment? I really don’t want to go to the expense of swapping the bottom bracket as well If I can avoid it.
Hi, yes it will be a standard square tapered installation, and I don’t blame you for wanting to change it. Hopefully it won’t be a stubborn one and will come off easily..good luck.
Thanks Dominic, I’m hoping to replace it with something period correct. I have my eye on a SR Apex set at the moment, Raleigh used the SR Custom on some models, but I think the Apex looks better.
Mine came off without a fight! Now replaced with a Stronglight alloy item from the same era. Much nicer. I also replaced the dreadful resin Wellgo pedals with a set of SR SP250s at the same time.
There are some steps to Remove Your Bike Crank Without Actually Using a Puller. First, twist and turn all bolts counterclockwise to loosen and remove bike crank nut or bolts, remove all washers. Use specific crank screws and nuts when identifying and removing cranks. Insert the spindle into the available slot assigned to it, twist in a counterclockwise motion, removing the puller thread from your bike’s crank.