How to Remove a Stuck Bottom Bracket
Deep inside the frame. Torqued in. Not going quietly.
Threaded bottom brackets seize from corrosion and grit. On an English-threaded (BSA) shell, the drive-side cup is left-hand threaded and loosens clockwise. Italian-threaded shells are right-hand on both sides. Check before you lean on it.
Step by Step
- 1
Identify the thread
Check the markings on the cups or your frame’s spec. English drive side loosens clockwise; non-drive side loosens counter-clockwise.
- 2
Soak both cups
Spray the edge of each cup where it meets the shell. Leave it overnight with the bike on its side so it wicks into the threads.
- 3
Hold the tool on
Secure the BB tool with a quick-release skewer or a bolt through the spindle so it cannot slip off and chew the splines.
- 4
Long lever, steady pull
Use a long wrench or breaker bar. Bike in a stand or clamped securely.
- 5
Chase and grease
Clean the shell threads and grease them before installing the new bracket.
No heat on bike frames. It can damage carbon, paint, and tube joints.
- If the cup starts to deform or the shell threads look damaged, stop. A shop can face and chase the shell.
Which Penetrant, and Why
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Common Mistakes
Turning the drive-side cup the wrong way.
Not securing the tool, and rounding the cup splines.