Like most people, you probably think that removing a bike crank requires a unique tool called a crank puller. But what if we told you there was an easy way to do it without the puller?
In this guide, I’ll show you how to do just that. So whether your bike is new or old, read on for the step-by-step instructions for removing a bike crank without the need for a puller.
First, we will take a look at the tools you’ll require for this process.
So let’s get started-
Tools Required For Removing a Bike Crank Without A Puller
You don’t need any special tools to remove bike cranks from your bike without a puller. That being said, here is a list of all the items you’ll need:
Old Cloth
You will need old clothes or rags. Alternatively, you can also use wipes or old, soft towels.
Allen Key Set
This set includes two Allen keys and one Phillips screwdriver. You can get them at any hardware store.
Bolts and Nuts
You will require bolts and nuts of different sizes.
Wrench
A wrench is required to tighten the bolts and nuts.
Steps to Remove Bike Crank Without Puller
You can follow the steps below to remove a bike crank without using a puller. However, before starting, make sure you have everything ready.
1. Wear Safety Equipment
You should first wear safety equipment such as gloves, goggles, earplugs, etc. This will help prevent injury while working with the bike.
This is more crucial than you might think. Why? Because the damage comes from the bicycle chainring composition.
It is a very sharp part. You can get severely injured if you are not careful and have no safety equipment.
2. Clean the Crank
The next thing you need to do is clean the crank using an old rag. After it is cleaned thoroughly, you need to remove the safety tab with the help of a screwdriver.
The tab is made of plastic, and thus you need to be careful otherwise, you might end up damaging it.
3. Remove the Nuts and Bolts
After cleaning the crank, you need to loosen the nuts and bolts. Use a wrench to loosen them.
Once they are loose enough, you can then remove them.
4. Detach and Remove the Washers
Next, you need to detach the washers. There are three washers present on each side of the crank.
They are located near the bolt head. You can easily see them because they are usually colored red.
These washers serve as a protection against corrosion. Thus, you need to remove them by loosening their nut.
5. Find the Crank and Turn the Coupler
You will use specific crank screw and nut combinations when you recognize and remove cranks. Your bike has different-sized bolt and nut combinations, so you need to choose the correct ones for your bike.
You must use the correct tool and know its size. This can help prevent damage to your bike.
A CCP 22 or CPW7 should be chosen for small cranks like M8 bolt heads, while a CCP 44 would be best for larger cranks like M14 and M12 bolt heads.
Next, you need to remove the coupler with a heading. We recommend using one hex tool with a screwdriver or spanner.
After you’ve got the right tools, slowly rotate the coupler until it releases. If you’re able to position the hex quickly, you may release it without having to use any force.
See if you can quickly reposition the hex. Don’t remove the coupler entirely; use it sparingly so you don’t scratch or damage the surface.
6. Put the Puller’s Spindle Driver Into the Bike’s Crank Arms
String the spindle driver of your puller onto the bicycle arm while using your hands. Insert the spindles into their respective slots.
After that, turn the spindle in a clockwise motion. You need to be patient when using this method.
You need to do this slowly but steadily until you see that the result is perfectly stiff and secure.
After completing this step, you must perform a thorough stiffness analysis for optimal safety. Having just one wobbly driver can result in an accident.
7. Set a Clockwise Direction to the Driver Spindle
Once you have tightened the drivers, set a clockwise direction to the drive spindle. You can do this by turning the handlebar stem.
If you want to ensure the driver is tight, you can use a torque wrench. However, we suggest that you check the tension before doing so.
8. Remove the Puller Tool’s Thread From the Bike Crank
Next, carefully remove the thread of the pullers from your bike cranks. Be careful when using this step if you don’t want to risk skinned knuckles.
It may be harmful to your skin and even your entire body.
9. Repeat the Above Steps For the Other Side
Finally, all you have to do now is repeat the above steps for the other side. You have successfully completed the process of removing a bike crank without a puller.
10. Carry Out a Final Examination
Now you just need to carry out a final examination. Make sure that everything is working properly.
Check whether the bolts are still loose. Also, check whether the nuts are still tight. If not, tighten them up.
Conclusion
We hope our guide helped you learn how to remove a bike crank without a pulling device. Knowing how to draw a bicycle crankset without using a tool is always good.
Remember to prioritize your safety first.
