Cleaning and regreasing of Campy crank

Wheels of Happiness

I met Mario Toledo, my best mechanic,  yesterday at a mountain trail road and hastily I consulted the campy crank, (the bearing of which was just replaced)  which has not be been rotating smoothly.  He advised that I should disassemble, clean, and regrease.

Which I did today.  Removal of the 10mm crank bolt (and reinstalling is a challenge).

True enough the crank axle is dirty and the non drive bearing is a little bit sticky.  So I cleaned the crank axle the bearing, and the crank shell. Generously regreased the bearing and the axle with synthetic lighter grease.   How could they all be so grimy after just three months?   Its good that the bearings were still in good shape.

Now the crank now turn faster and smoother.  I must have lost 10-15 watts with the dirty 

Great long ride at the province

Wheels of Happiness

The ride yesterday started at 7:00 am.  But there were sporadic rain showers and we were rained out 2x and our other companions were furiously pedalling at 30+ kmh on mtb.  Whew.   It took us nearly an hour to reach the highway.  

Then another 30 minutes of riding until we reached our "guide" heiress of a mt river resort who brought some food and refreshment for us.  After 17 km or riding,  10km flat and 7 km from highway to the foot of the mountains we finally made it to the resort.  The last km was a punishing uphill climb that was maybe 15% grade.    I made to the top without tulak.    Clear water with waterfall. and sumptuous lunch

Thanks was able to make this