Hi, I just picked up an old '90s mtb with this square taper BB that needs replacement.
I have this Park Tool HCW-5 wrench that looks fitted for the job but unfortunately the teeth don't quite engage.
Is this the right tool for the job ? If so, how to maximize my chances of removing the BB without destroying the plastic/vinyl casing ? I drenched it in wd40, but I suppose there are better oils
Thanks for your help !
by mkp0x
8 Comments
It looks correct to me. Google which standard that bb tool is made for, the park tool description should say. Remember most likely one side of your BB is reverse threads.
If wd 40 isn’t helping try PB blaster
That is a German brand of bottom bracket whose name is a slur in English. The correct tool to remove it without damage is here [https://www.bike24.com/p2276589.html](https://www.bike24.com/p2276589.html) Usually people destructively remove it with vice grips and replace the BB
Not correct. It might work but the right tool is UT-bb 100 or some such. Its a 6 point tool. Or Park BBT-4. Pedros has one too I think
That looks like an FAG-type plastic BB, so you’ll need an FAG/Campagnolo wrench like the one from Pedro’s:https://pedros.com/products/bottom-bracket-wrench-campagnolo-6-notch
>If so, how to maximize my chances of removing the BB without
destroying the plastic/vinyl casing ?
What casing are you talking about, and why does it matter? I thought you were replacing the BB. If so, just use any wrench that can turn that piece off.
There is a slightly better tool for 6 notch bottom brackets from Campagnolo and FAG.
https://www.parktool.com/en-us/blog/repair-help/bottom-bracket-tool-selection-threaded-and-thread-together#BBT-4
Your tool might work, but it is not a perfect fit, although i would re orient the tool so you are pushing the tool down to unthread, rather than pulling up.
It might not be worth purchasing the special tool since you would be replacing with another style of bottom bracket . if you are in somewhere near Germany, Netherlands, ask a bike shop how much to remove this cup.
The plastic on these can be brittle, proceed with caution. Google “FAG bottom bracket cup” if you have trouble.
Alright looks like park BBT-4 is the right tool indeed. Gave a call to my LBS that can try to remove it and if things go wrong they will be able to torch it, thanks for your answers !
Edit : -6 +4
For the record, I was able to remove mine (before disposal) using a quality set of channel-lock pliers. They don’t corrode in place like the metal ones.