How to Replace or Service the Bearings in Your Campagnolo Super Record 12s Crankset

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The Campagnolo Super Record 12s Crankset [paid link] is known for its exceptional performance and high-quality materials, designed to meet the demands of serious road cyclists. One of the critical components that maintain the crankset’s smooth operation is the set of bearings that support the pedal and crankset system. Over time, these bearings can wear out due to regular use, leading to a decrease in performance or even mechanical failure. Replacing or servicing the bearings is essential for ensuring your crankset continues to perform at its best.

Tools Required

Before beginning the replacement or servicing process, make sure you have the following tools on hand:

Understanding the Bearing Setup in the Campagnolo Super Record 12s Crankset

The Super Record 12s Crankset [paid link] is equipped with high-performance ceramic bearings that reduce friction and increase overall drivetrain efficiency. These bearings are housed in the crankset’s spindle and pedal axle, which play a crucial role in ensuring smooth pedal stroke and power transfer.

The Super Record 12s crankset [paid link] typically has two main sets of bearings: one on the right-hand side for the pedal axle and another set in the crankset for the bottom bracket interface.

  • Pedal Bearings: These are located where the pedal attaches to the crank arm. Over time, these bearings may experience wear due to repeated pedal strikes, water exposure, and general riding conditions.
  • Bottom Bracket Bearings: These bearings reside in the bottom bracket shell and help the crankset spin smoothly. If these bearings start to fail, they can cause wobbling, noise, and inefficiency.

How to Replace the Bearings in the Campagnolo Super Record 12s Crankset

Replacing the bearings in the Super Record 12s Crankset [paid link] is a detailed process that requires careful handling to avoid damage to the crankset and ensure proper installation of the new bearings.

Step 1: Remove the Crankset

Before replacing or servicing the bearings, the crankset must be removed from the bike frame.

  • First, use a 15mm spanner or pedal wrench [paid link] to remove the pedals from both sides of the crankset.
  • Next, use an 8mm hex wrench to remove the bolts securing the crank arms to the spindle.
  • After loosening the bolts, carefully remove the crankset from the bike. Set the crankset on a clean surface to prevent any damage to the components.

Step 2: Inspect the Existing Bearings

Once the crankset is removed, carefully inspect the bearings to determine whether they need to be replaced or just serviced. Common signs that the bearings need attention include:

  • Increased resistance when rotating the crankset by hand.
  • Noise such as grinding or creaking during pedaling.
  • Wobbling or loose crank arms.

If the bearings feel rough or exhibit noticeable play, it’s time to replace them.

Step 3: Remove the Old Bearings

Using the Campagnolo bearing press [paid link] tool, gently press the old bearings out of their respective housings.

  • Place the bearing press [paid link] tool on the edge of the bearing and apply gradual pressure to remove the bearing from the housing.
  • Be cautious not to damage the crankset or surrounding components during this process.

Step 4: Clean the Bearing Housings

Before installing the new bearings, thoroughly clean the bearing housings with a degreaser and a clean rag. This step is crucial to ensure that any old grease, dirt, or debris does not interfere with the installation of the new bearings.

Step 5: Install the New Bearings

  • Apply a thin layer of bike-specific grease to the outer edges of the new bearings.
  • Use the bearing press tool to carefully install the new bearings into their respective housings. Make sure the bearings are seated evenly and securely.
  • Apply a small amount of grease around the bearing surface to ensure smooth operation once reassembled.

Step 6: Reassemble the Crankset

  • Reinstall the crankset back onto the spindle, ensuring that the new bearings are seated properly.
  • Tighten the crank arm bolts using a torque wrench [paid link] set to the manufacturer’s recommended torque setting (typically around 40 Nm for the Super Record 12s Crankset [paid link]).
  • Reinstall the pedals on both sides of the crankset.

Step 7: Test the Crankset

Once everything is reassembled, rotate the crankset by hand to check for any abnormal resistance or noise. The movement should be smooth, and the pedal axle should spin freely without any wobbling. If everything feels solid, take the bike for a short test ride to confirm that the crankset is functioning as it should.

When to Service vs. Replace Bearings

The decision to service or replace the bearings will depend on their condition:

  • Service the bearings: If the bearings are still intact but have accumulated dirt or grime, they can often be cleaned and re-lubed. This should be done periodically to maintain smooth operation.
  • Replace the bearings: If the bearings show signs of physical damage, wear, or if cleaning and relubing do not restore smoothness, it’s best to replace them with new ones to ensure optimal performance.

Benefits of Properly Maintained Bearings

Maintaining or replacing the bearings in your Campagnolo Super Record 12s [paid link] Crankset is essential for the following reasons:

  • Improved Efficiency: Well-maintained bearings reduce friction, ensuring smoother pedal strokes and better power transfer.
  • Extended Crankset Lifespan: Properly cared-for bearings help protect the crankset and its components from unnecessary wear and tear.
  • Enhanced Ride Quality: Regular bearing maintenance ensures a quieter, more responsive, and comfortable ride.

Conclusion

Replacing or servicing the bearings in your Campagnolo Super Record 12s [paid link] Crankset is a straightforward yet essential task for maintaining the performance of your bike. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can ensure that your crankset operates efficiently and reliably for many rides to come. Regular maintenance of the bearings will also help prevent costly repairs and extend the lifespan of your crankset.