The TIME DH 6 [paid link] pedals are engineered for precision, durability, and control in high-intensity riding environments. However, even the most robust pedals can develop noise or stiffness over time. These issues, while common, are easily manageable with the right approach. This detailed guide explains how to accurately diagnose, disassemble, and service your TIME DH 6 [paid link] pedals to restore their signature smoothness and silence.
Tools Required
- 8 mm Allen key
- Torque wrench [paid link]
- Small flathead screwdriver
- Bearing puller or bearing press [paid link] (optional but recommended)
- Cleaning brush and degreaser
- Waterproof grease (high-pressure type)
- Loctite thread locker (medium strength)
Understanding the TIME DH 6 Pedal Design
The TIME DH 6 is a clipless, dual-sided platform pedal designed primarily for downhill and enduro riders who require stability and efficient power transfer. Its body is composed of a forged aluminum platform with replaceable traction pins and ATAC engagement mechanism that provides self-cleaning functionality. Inside, the pedal houses sealed cartridge bearings and bushings, ensuring longevity under heavy loads.
Because of its intricate mechanism, stiffness or noise typically stems from three sources: bearing wear, bushing contamination, or inadequate lubrication. Identifying the correct cause early prevents long-term damage.
Diagnosing the Source of Noise
Noisy pedals are usually symptomatic of internal friction, loose hardware, or contamination. To pinpoint the cause:
- Spin the Pedal by Hand – If the pedal doesn’t rotate freely or grinds during movement, suspect bearing or bushing degradation.
- Check for Side-to-Side Play – Lateral movement in the spindle indicates worn bushings or a loosened spindle nut.
- Listen During Pedaling – Clicking or creaking that synchronizes with pedal strokes often results from a dry spindle interface or insufficient thread lubrication.
- Inspect the Cleats and Engagement Area – Worn cleats or dirt within the ATAC retention mechanism can cause sharp, intermittent clicking.
If these checks confirm internal friction or looseness, proceed with a full disassembly and service.
Servicing the Bearings and Bushings
Before beginning, remove the pedals from the crankarms using an 8 mm Allen key. Clean the exterior with degreaser and dry thoroughly.
Step 1: Remove the End Cap
Use a small flathead screwdriver to gently pry off the outer dust cap. Beneath it, you’ll find the spindle nut securing the axle.
Step 2: Extract the Axle Assembly
Using an appropriately sized socket, carefully unscrew the nut and slide out the axle assembly. Take note of the bearing sequence — most DH 6 pedals use two cartridge bearings and one inboard bushing.
Step 3: Clean and Inspect Components
Wipe all components with a lint-free cloth. Inspect bearings for rough rotation or visible corrosion. The inboard bushing should be smooth and firm; any looseness indicates the need for replacement.
Step 4: Replace or Re-Grease Bearings
If the bearings spin freely without play, simply re-pack them with high-pressure waterproof grease. For damaged bearings, press out the old cartridges using a bearing puller and install new ones, ensuring proper alignment.
Step 5: Reassemble and Torque
Reinsert the axle, ensuring that the bushing and bearings seat correctly. Apply a small amount of Loctite to the spindle nut threads and tighten to 6–8 Nm with a torque wrench [paid link]. Replace the dust cap securely.
Addressing Stiff Pedal Rotation
Stiff rotation on TIME DH 6 pedals usually indicates excess internal friction. The causes include:
- Over-tightened spindle nut
- Insufficient lubrication
- Bearing preload misalignment
- Dirt intrusion into the bearing races
After reassembly, if stiffness persists, loosen the spindle nut slightly (about 1/8 of a turn) and retest rotation. The pedal should spin freely with minimal resistance and no lateral play.
Fixing Creaks and Clicks During Riding
If you experience creaking after servicing, the issue may not be internal. Check these external factors:
- Crank Interface – Ensure the pedal threads are clean and lightly greased before reinstallation. Torque to 40 Nm to eliminate micro-movement.
- Cleat Bolts – Tighten cleat bolts to manufacturer specs (typically 5–6 Nm). Loose bolts often cause audible clicking.
- Pedal Body Pins – Inspect and re-tighten traction pins; vibration-induced looseness can mimic bearing noise.
Preventative Maintenance Schedule
TIME DH 6 pedals benefit from routine servicing, particularly in wet or dusty riding conditions. Follow this maintenance plan to keep them performing smoothly:
- Every 50 hours of riding: Clean exterior, inspect cleat interface, re-lubricate springs.
- Every 100 hours: Remove axle, clean and re-grease bearings.
- Every 6 months: Replace bearings and bushings if rotational play develops.
Consistent maintenance not only eliminates noise but also extends bearing life and preserves pedal tension accuracy.
Optimizing Performance After Service
Once your pedals are reassembled and quiet, perform these steps to ensure peak operation:
- Engage and Disengage Cleats several times to evenly distribute grease in the mechanism.
- Adjust Tension via the ATAC retention spring to your preferred resistance level [paid link].
- Verify Float and Release Angles to ensure the engagement feels natural and predictable.
Proper lubrication combined with correct tension adjustment restores the TIME DH 6’s signature responsiveness and secure connection.
Final Thoughts
Diagnosing and fixing noisy or stiff TIME DH 6 pedals is a straightforward process that rewards attention to detail. Regular inspection, precise torque settings, and consistent lubrication are the keys to maintaining silent, efficient operation. With the correct maintenance intervals, your DH 6 pedals will continue to deliver the durability and stability that define TIME’s engineering excellence.