Raleigh Eclipse, because I really needed another bike

[splooter]

Well, that's a great gift for your son. I'll keep my eyes peeled for it being ridden around Edinburgh!

 

[stutrigg]

Hi Guys, sorry to jump in on the thread. I am in the process of getting my eclipse up and running and am having trouble with the bottom bracket.

Could anyone please help me out with how to get this bad boy out? I have the crank arms off, but the BB is completely shot and I am hoping to replace it.

Does anyone have any recommnendations of what to replace it with/wherefrom?

Sorry, a lot to ask for my first post

Thanks in advance

 

[BobToo]

There are a couple of guides here that should help. http://sheldonbrown.com/tooltips/bbadj.html and http://sheldonbrown.com/tooltips/bbcups.html

Before considering a replacement BB you should service the existing one. Sheldon Brown suggests doing away with the bearing cages and fitting all new balls but you should be fine just cleaning and lubricating what's there. Pop the balls out of the cages so you can clean both properly. I'd be surprised if that doesn't bring your BB back to life. If the cages have broken up you can either buy replacements or buy new balls and put it together without cages as Sheldon Brown suggests.