[CR]Bottom bracket remedy

(Example: Events:Eroica)

From: "Jim Robb" <Jim.Robb@trw.com>
To: classicrendezvous@bikelist.org
Date: Thu, 21 Dec 2000 08:33:45 -0800
Subject: [CR]Bottom bracket remedy

Greetings, Just a note to let you know that I have found that the latest Campagnolo Daytona bottom bracket is compatible with my Super Record cranks. Not being able to find a decent deal on a replacement BB, I went looking for a cheap, more current alternative. My guess was that Campy still used the same taper as they always have and that something in their current catalog might work. I discovered that the Daytona BB intended for the racing triple comes in 115.5 length (which is close enough to original) and at about $20 was worth a gamble. I purchased one and an installation tool and installed it last night. First inspection after installation showed that the chainrings were a little too close to the chainstay and needed to be moved out. I removed the cup and put a 1MM spacer underneath and reinstalled everything. This time I have acceptable clearance and good chainline. A brief test ride in the dark seemed to be OK, things are tight and smooth with no play in the bearings. I am a little concerned about the gap that may exist at the non-drive side interface between the end of the BB cartridge sleeve and the face of the retaining cup. There is a least a 1MM gap there now but I am hoping that it will be tight enough. I will be doing lots of miles during my vacation between Xmas and New Years, and I will report back to the group how this set up performs.

On the subject of crankset cracking, this particular crank of mine had the start of a crack right at the web. I took a round chainsaw file and filed it enough to remove the crack and a little more material. I was able to blend in the area to look acceptable. After about 500 miles of riding I see no evidence that the crack is returning. I inspect it after every ride to insure my piece of mind. I would suggest that this will be OK because I caught the damage soon enough. If the crack had extended much further I wouldn't have tried this.

Jim Robb
Granada Hills, Calif