In this video we talk about the Echo BB30 system and how to remove play and keep it in good order.
One of the primary causes of damage in this system is poor interfacing of components, usually caused by factors outside of the customer's control. Since Echo has closed operations and spare parts are hard to come by, proper maintenance can make wonders to how much life can be extracted from these components.
At Trialshop.pl, our biggest friend is Loctite 638. This is a compound used to increase the contact area between two interfacing surfaces. Even the best interface (and these are NOT found in trials bikes!) usually has a contact patch of around 30%. Using this compound can increase it to 100%. We have been using this compound on almost all new bikes assembled since 2017 and have been in awe with the results.
Servicing a BB30 system will require thorough cleaning and an inspection of bearings. If these are rough or rusted, they should be replaced. Riders may also find that the drive side crank and axle may come loose over time. This can manifest itself in creaking noises when pedalling. It is a good idea to give the axle a decisive tap from the non-drive side to see if it can be dislodged from the crank. If so, the axle should be removed. All contact surfaces on the BB30 system should be thoroughly cleaned and degreased.
Loctite 638 should be applied to the following mating surfaces:
- Axle spline - drive side crank
- Axle - bearings
- Axle - non-drive side crank
This compound should not be applied to the freewheel spline.
In this video we also take a look at the freewheels internals. As this crankset is fitted with a unique splined titanium freewheel from Echo, keeping it in good order is imperative. A freewheel servicing video can be found here.
Threadlock can be applied to the crank bolt upon correctly loading up the bearings. The bike should remain for 24-30 hours in a warm room before use.