How to remove and install Shimano cranks

Modern Shimano cranks have a two-part system. This means that the chainring crank arm is attached to the spindle or axle, and the other arm is separate.

To take the system apart, undo the non-drive side crank arm, loosening the bolts a little bit at a time.

Use a pre-load tool to remove the plastic cap from the centre of the spindle.

Shimano cranks have a little safety clip between the clamp bolts on the non-drive side. Push it up and out of the way with a flathead screwdriver, then slide the crank arm from the spindle.

Before you remove the chainset, click the derailleur into the small ring and take the chain off the chainrings. Let it rest on the bottom bracket shell.

Remove the chainset from the bottom bracket by sliding the spindle and chainset out of the bottom bracket. It will be pretty snug, but try not to wiggle it from side to side. If you’re struggling, you can use a nylon hammer to gently persuade it through.

For reassembly, apply some grease to the drive side of the spindle, near the chainset, then rest your chain on the bottom bracket shell out of the way. Insert the spindle back through the bottom bracket – it might need a few gentle taps with your nylon hammer to go through.

Put some grease on the splined part of the spindle then attach the non-drive side crank arm. Use the pre-load tool to tighten up the plastic cap, doing it up as tight as you can just with your fingers. Re-insert the retention spring using a small screwdriver and tighten up the 5mm bolts to the correct torque.