How to Replace or Service the Bearings in Your Shimano PD-6800 Pedals

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The Shimano PD-6800[paid link] pedals are a popular choice for road cyclists, providing a solid blend of performance, comfort, and durability. Over time, however, the bearings inside these pedals may wear out or become less efficient, leading to stiffness, noise, or reduced performance. In this guide, we will walk you through the process of replacing or servicing the bearings in your Shimano PD-6800 pedals, helping you maintain peak performance and prolong the lifespan of your pedals.

Tools Required

  • 8mm Allen wrench[paid link]
  • 10mm Allen wrench[paid link]
  • Pedal spanner (optional)
  • Needle nose pliers
  • Flathead screwdriver
  • Bearing press[paid link] (optional, for reinstallation)
  • High-quality grease (bike-specific)
  • Replacement bearings (if necessary)

Understanding the Bearing System of Shimano PD-6800 Pedals

The Shimano PD-6800 pedals feature a sealed bearing system, designed to protect the internals from dust, dirt, and moisture. These bearings are critical for smooth pedaling, and when they start to degrade, you might notice the pedals becoming stiff, making noise, or feeling rough during rotation. Replacing or servicing the bearings will restore smoothness and efficiency to the pedals.

Steps to Replace or Service the Bearings

1. Remove the Pedals from the Crankset

Before starting any work on your pedals, you need to remove them from the bike:

  • Use an 8mm Allen wrench to loosen and remove the pedal from the crankset.
  • Ensure you remove the right pedal on the right side and the left pedal on the left side, as the threads are opposite.

2. Disassemble the Pedals

Once the pedals are off the bike, you will need to disassemble them to access the bearings:

  • Use a 10mm Allen wrench to remove the pedal axle. You may need to apply a small amount of force to break the initial tightness.
  • Carefully remove the axle from the pedal body, making sure not to damage any of the surrounding parts.

3. Inspect the Bearings

Once the axle is removed, inspect the bearings for wear and tear:

  • Look for signs of corrosion, pitting, or grinding. Healthy bearings should rotate smoothly without resistance or any gritty feel.
  • If you feel or hear any resistance when turning the bearings, it’s time to replace them.

4. Remove the Old Bearings (If Necessary)

If the bearings need replacing, carefully remove them:

  • Use a flathead screwdriver or needle-nose pliers to gently pry out the old bearings. Be cautious not to scratch or damage the pedal body during this process.
  • Depending on the model, there may be multiple small bearings or a larger cartridge bearing system that needs removal.

5. Clean the Pedal and Axle

Before installing the new bearings, it’s important to thoroughly clean the pedal and axle:

  • Use a cloth to wipe away any dirt, grease, or debris from the pedal body and axle.
  • Ensure that the bearing seat inside the pedal body is clean and smooth. This will help ensure the new bearings sit correctly and perform efficiently.

6. Install the New Bearings

With the pedal body cleaned and prepared, install the new bearings:

  • Press the new bearings into the pedal body carefully. A bearing press[paid link] can help achieve a precise fit, though you can also use your hands or a gentle tool to apply even pressure.
  • Ensure that the bearings are fully seated and that they spin smoothly before proceeding.

7. Reassemble the Pedals

Now that the bearings are installed, you can reassemble the pedal:

  • Insert the pedal axle back into the pedal body.
  • Tighten the axle with the 10mm Allen wrench, ensuring that it is secure but not overtightened.

8. Grease the Pedal Threads

Before reinstalling the pedal onto the bike, apply a thin layer of bike-specific grease to the threads of the pedal axle. This will prevent seizing and make future removal easier.

9. Reinstall the Pedals

Finally, reinstall the pedals onto the crankset:

  • Use an 8mm Allen wrench to tighten the pedals back onto the bike. Remember to install the left pedal on the left side and the right pedal on the right side.
  • Tighten the pedals securely, but avoid over-tightening, as this can damage the threads.

10. Test the Pedals

After the pedals are reinstalled, spin them to ensure they rotate smoothly without any roughness or noise. If the pedals feel smooth and operate quietly, you’ve successfully replaced or serviced the bearings.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

  • Pedals Still Feel Rough After Bearing Replacement: Double-check that the new bearings are seated properly. Also, ensure that the pedal axle is not bent or damaged.
  • Pedals Don’t Spin Freely: If the pedals are too tight, ensure the axle is properly greased and that the pedal body isn’t over-tightened.
  • Noisy Pedals: If you hear noise even after bearing replacement, inspect the pedal body for any wear or cracks. Sometimes, debris or old grease can cause noise even when the bearings are new.

Conclusion

Replacing or servicing the bearings in your Shimano PD-6800 pedals is an essential maintenance task that will keep your pedals performing at their best. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can restore smoothness to your pedals and extend their lifespan. Regular maintenance, including bearing checks, will help ensure that your pedals continue to deliver the performance and comfort you need for a successful ride.