How to Install, Adjust, and Maintain the Shimano FH-5700 Hub

Posted on
in No category

The Shimano FH-5700 [paid link] hub is a critical component of any road bike drivetrain, designed for smooth engagement and long-term durability. Whether you’re installing a new hub, adjusting bearings, or performing routine maintenance, proper setup ensures optimal performance.

This guide will walk you through the entire process, from installation to long-term upkeep, ensuring your FH-5700 [paid link] hub remains in top condition.

Tools Required

  • Cassette lockring tool [paid link]
  • Chain whip
  • Adjustable wrench or torque wrench [paid link]
  • Cone wrenches (13mm and 15mm)
  • Allen keys [paid link] (5mm and 10mm)
  • Grease (high-quality lithium-based or Shimano-approved)
  • Degreaser
  • Clean rags
  • Spoke wrench (if necessary)
  • Freehub oil or light grease for the ratchet mechanism

Step 1: Installing the Shimano FH-5700 Hub

Before installing the FH-5700 [paid link] hub, ensure your wheel and frame are compatible. This hub is designed for Shimano 10-speed road drivetrains and features an aluminum freehub body.

1.1 Preparing the Hub and Wheel

  • Inspect the hub for any shipping grease or debris. Wipe it clean with a degreaser if necessary.
  • Ensure the hub bearings are smooth before installation. If there is any roughness, servicing may be required before proceeding.

1.2 Installing the Cassette

  • Place the cassette onto the freehub body, aligning the splines correctly.
  • Use a chain whip to hold the cassette in place and tighten the lockring with a cassette lockring tool [paid link].
  • Torque the lockring to 40Nm using a torque wrench [paid link] to prevent overtightening or under-tightening.

1.3 Installing the Wheel

  • Insert the wheel into the dropouts, ensuring it is centered.
  • Tighten the quick-release skewer or thru-axle (depending on your frame compatibility).
  • Spin the wheel to ensure it rotates freely and without lateral play.

Step 2: Adjusting the Shimano FH-5700 Hub Bearings

Proper bearing adjustment is critical for smooth rolling and longevity. The FH-5700 hub uses cup-and-cone bearings, which allow for fine-tuning.

2.1 Checking for Play and Roughness

  • Hold the wheel by the axle and check for side-to-side movement. Any play indicates loose bearings, while roughness suggests over-tightening.
  • Spin the wheel and listen for grinding noises, which can indicate contamination or improper preload.

2.2 Adjusting the Bearings

  • Use cone wrenches (13mm and 15mm) to loosen the locknuts on both sides.
  • Rotate the cone nuts slightly to adjust bearing tension. Tighten gradually until there is no play, but avoid over-tightening.
  • Secure the locknut while holding the cone in place to prevent it from shifting.
  • Recheck the wheel for smooth rotation and minimal play.

Step 3: Maintaining the Shimano FH-5700 Hub

Regular maintenance extends the lifespan of your hub and prevents premature wear. Shimano recommends servicing the FH-5700 hub every 3,000–5,000 km, depending on riding conditions.

3.1 Cleaning and Lubrication

  • Remove the wheel and take off the cassette using a lockring tool [paid link] and chain whip.
  • Use degreaser and a clean rag to wipe down the freehub body.
  • Apply a light layer of grease to the hub shell and a small amount of freehub oil or grease inside the ratchet mechanism.
  • Clean and re-lubricate the bearings using high-quality grease before reassembly.

3.2 Checking for Wear and Damage

  • Inspect the hub shell for cracks or excessive wear.
  • Check the freehub engagement by spinning the cassette backward and listening for skipping or inconsistent clicks.
  • If the freehub feels draggy, it may require disassembly and re-greasing.

Step 4: Troubleshooting Common Shimano FH-5700 Hub Issues

4.1 Freehub Not Engaging

  • If the freehub fails to engage, remove it and inspect the pawls and springs.
  • Apply fresh freehub oil or grease sparingly to ensure smooth engagement.

4.2 Excessive Drag

  • Check for over-greased or contaminated bearings.
  • Inspect the freehub mechanism for dried-out lubricant or worn components.

4.3 Hub Making Unusual Noises

  • Clicking sounds may indicate loose spokes or a worn freehub.
  • Grinding noises suggest dirty or damaged bearings.

Conclusion

The Shimano FH-5700 hub is a reliable choice for road cyclists, but proper installation, adjustment, and maintenance are essential to keep it performing at its best. By following this guide, you can ensure smooth rolling, proper bearing preload, and a well-maintained freehub mechanism. Regular servicing and troubleshooting will extend the lifespan of your hub, providing years of trouble-free riding.