Help. Need advice on BB tools and spec.

[johnnyw]

Hi Guys,
My 91 Explosif is back on the road again and it is now well noticeable that the bottom bracket has had it's last. It still has the std Shimano DX BB with greasesealer.
What tool/tools do I need to remove and fit a new one and what BB should I be looking for? I would like a decent spec XT or whatever.What do you recommend?
Cheers, Johnny.

 

[jim-laden]

If it were up to me I wouldn't bother getting the correct tools to remove the BB you have. Just get your LBS to remove it for you then replace it with a Shimano cartridge affair. Tools to fit these are about a tenner. And the best thing is the fit and forget nature. Replaced my XT twice (UN72) in 15 years of abusive riding!!

Jim

 

[johnnyw]

Cheers Jim. Is that XT BB suitable for mine also? Are they easy to get or is it another fleabay job?

 

[johnnyw]

Still would like to do this myself. Can someone please tell me which type of BB removal tool I need to get?

 

[cce]

square taper cartridge bottom brackets are still available from chain reaction

UN53 UN54 = LX
UN73 = XT

 

[johnnyw]

Cheers for that. Any idea what i need to remove it?

 

[jango]

something like this....

http://www.chainreactioncycles.com/Mode ... odelID=689

 

[johnnyw]

Cheers.

 

[greenstiles]

careful before you buy a tool, there have been a few sizes over the years...........i would take it to your local shop and ask them if they have the right type and if it's cheaper to buy one off them than them to do the work at least you can take it back and get the proper one if it's wrong. I am ex trade and saw many people buy the wrong tools when they only needed to ask first.

 

[johnnyw]

That was the reason for my question as the array of BB tools is outrageous and I didn't have a clue where to start. Grudge taking it to a shop but it may be the best bet.
Thanks for your advice.