Peter Bridge wrote:
>
> I'm about to install a new-used Spidel sealed BB -- maybe quality over-kill
> in my Motobecane Grand Record, but I'm looking forward to easily adjusted,
> perfectly smooth BB bearings. The bearings do feel very smooth. Should I
> lubricate the "sealed" bearing cartridges somehow prior to installation?
> I've certainly heard tell of lifting the seals off various cartridge bearing
> units, but I've never done it.
The only time you touch the bearings in cartridge BBs is when they get rough and then you go to your local bearing house and get replacements (they are all standard industrial bearings). I just go to my local garage and use their bearing press to change them. They last for a very long time here in dry, warm SoCal ;)
Chuck Schmidt
SoPas, SoCal