The Shimano FH-6800 [paid link] hub is a high-quality rear hub commonly used in road cycling. Known for its smooth performance, reliability, and durability, it is part of Shimano’s 11-speed road bike components. To ensure optimal performance, proper installation, adjustment, and regular maintenance are crucial. This guide will provide you with all the steps necessary to install, adjust, and maintain your Shimano FH-6800 [paid link] hub.
Tools Required
Before starting the installation and maintenance process, ensure that you have the following tools:
- 10mm and 5mm Allen wrenches [paid link]
- Torque wrench [paid link]
- Grease
- Lubricant
- Rags
- Chain whip
- Cassette lockring tool [paid link]
- Hub tool [paid link] (if needed for servicing the freehub)
Installing the Shimano FH-6800 Hub
The installation process for the Shimano FH-6800 [paid link] hub is straightforward, but it requires careful attention to detail to ensure proper setup. Here’s how to install it:
- Prepare the Hub and Wheel:
- If you are installing a new hub onto a wheel, start by ensuring that the rim, spokes, and nipples are all properly assembled and tensioned. This step should be done by a professional wheelbuilder or using a wheelbuilding jig.
- Install the Cassette:
- Slide the Shimano FH-6800 hub onto the wheel axle. The FH-6800 uses a standard 11-speed freehub, so be sure the freehub body is properly aligned with the wheel.
- Next, install the 11-speed Shimano cassette onto the freehub body. Use the chain whip to hold the cassette in place while you tighten the lockring with a lockring tool [paid link]. The torque specification for the lockring is 40–50 Nm.
- Mount the Wheel on the Bike:
- Once the cassette is installed, position the wheel in the rear dropouts of the bike frame.
- Tighten the quick release or thru-axle, depending on the bike frame design. Ensure that the wheel is centered in the frame and secure in place.
- Check the Freehub Engagement:
- Before moving to adjustments, check the freehub engagement by rotating the wheel. The freehub should engage smoothly and provide a positive click with each turn.
Adjusting the Shimano FH-6800 Hub
Once installed, you may need to adjust the hub to ensure smooth performance. The most important adjustment is the bearing preload and freehub engagement.
Adjusting the Bearing Preload
- Locate the Bearing Adjuster:
- The Shimano FH-6800 hub has two bearings: one in the freehub body and another in the hub shell. The bearing preload is controlled by an external adjuster on the non-drive side of the hub.
- Loosen the Locknut:
- Using a 10mm wrench, loosen the locknut that secures the bearing adjuster.
- Adjust the Bearing Preload:
- Rotate the adjuster to achieve the correct bearing preload. The ideal preload will result in smooth rotation without any play, but without excessive tightness that can create drag.
- Tighten the Locknut:
- After adjusting the preload, tighten the locknut to secure the bearing adjuster in place. Be cautious not to overtighten, as this can affect the hub’s smooth operation.
Fine-Tuning the Freehub Engagement
The freehub of the Shimano FH-6800 should engage quickly and without hesitation. If the engagement feels rough or delayed, follow these steps:
- Remove the Cassette:
- Use the cassette lockring tool [paid link] to remove the cassette from the freehub body.
- Inspect the Freehub Mechanism:
- Check for any debris or old lubricant that may be causing issues. Clean the freehub body and apply fresh lubricant to the pawls and ratchets inside the freehub.
- Reinstall the Cassette:
- Once the freehub is cleaned and lubricated, reinstall the cassette, ensuring it is properly tightened.
Maintaining the Shimano FH-6800 Hub
Regular maintenance is essential to prolong the lifespan of your Shimano FH-6800 hub and keep it performing at its best. Here’s how to maintain the hub:
Cleaning the Hub
- Remove the Wheel:
- Start by removing the wheel from the bike frame. This allows for thorough cleaning of both the hub and surrounding components.
- Clean the Hub Shell:
- Use a rag and degreaser to clean the exterior of the hub shell. Pay special attention to the freehub body, as dirt and grime can cause issues with engagement.
- Inspect the Bearings:
- Periodically check the bearings for smoothness. If the bearings feel rough or sticky, they may need to be serviced or replaced.
- Lubricate the Freehub:
- Apply lubricant to the pawls and ratchets inside the freehub to ensure smooth engagement. Use a light grease specifically designed for hubs.
Hub Maintenance Schedule
To maintain your Shimano FH-6800 hub, follow this routine:
- Every 500–1000 miles:
- Clean the exterior of the hub and check for any visible damage or signs of wear.
- Lubricate the freehub body and pawls.
- Every 2000–3000 miles:
- Inspect the hub bearings for wear. If you notice roughness, it may be time to replace the bearings.
- Every 5000–7000 miles:
- Consider servicing the entire hub, including disassembling the freehub to inspect the pawls and internal components.
Replacing Bearings
If your hub’s bearings start to feel rough or gritty, it’s time for a replacement. Here’s how to do it:
- Remove the Freehub:
- Use the appropriate tools to remove the freehub from the hub shell.
- Remove the Bearings:
- Carefully remove the old bearings from their races. Use a bearing press [paid link] or similar tool to extract them without damaging the bearing seats.
- Install New Bearings:
- Press in the new bearings, ensuring they are seated properly and spin smoothly. Reassemble the hub and freehub body.
Conclusion
The Shimano FH-6800 hub is a reliable and durable component that, when properly installed and maintained, can provide excellent performance for road cyclists. By following the installation, adjustment, and maintenance steps outlined in this guide, you can ensure your hub runs smoothly and lasts for many miles. Regular maintenance and timely servicing will also help prevent common issues and ensure your Shimano FH-6800 hub continues to deliver optimal performance throughout its lifespan.