Bottom Bracket Bearings

[ChiScouter]

I have a Bianci Grizzley that I bought new in 1988, it may be an oldie but it is holding up great and serves my needs. My crank was getting a lot of play in it and when I disassembled it the bearings on one side all fell out. My bearings are loose balls held in place by a stamped metal cage. I have talked to 2 bike shops and they have told me that they went to sealed one piece bearings shortly after my bike was built and I am SOL to replace mine. If worst comes to worst I will bend one of the cages back into shape as good as I can, grease the hell out of it and be on my way. I would prefer to replace the bearings and cages if possible.

Do you guys know of any places that specialize in parts for old bikes or any other resources? The component group is Shimano Deore if that makes any difference.

I was planning on using the same Mobil 1 syn grease I use in everything else, Is there a reason I shouldn't?

[Beat95YJ]

Just get a sealed cartridge, they had swappable ones when I was still in the bikes.

[ChiScouter]

Originally Posted by Beat95YJ

Just get a sealed cartridge, they had swappable ones when I was still in the bikes.

If thats possible im all up for it. Both bike shops told me that they aren't a direct replacment for mine. I think I need better bike shops.

[Beat95YJ]

I would check on that. When I was in college they both fit in the same hole.

[Midwestzj]

You can do either. They do make a one piece bottom cracket with sealed bearings and everything. i also know they sell the caged bearing like yours. I would say go sealed becasue on one like yours they need to be adjusted and its just something else to worry about. once you take the crank off (seems like you already have) measure the spindle length from end to end and get that in mm. Then get the measurementof the bb shell on the frame. Measure just the outside to outside where the cups screw in. It will be either 68mm, 70mm or 73 mm wide. These two measurements will get you all set up.

[rugburn]

Just like advice from a doctor, seek an alternative bit of advice.

the thread sizes are comparable to other BB cups and the sealed unit and BB spindle are comparable to other out there.

Measure what you have an order from Bike Nashbar or Quality Bike.

Screw the local shops...they only want to sell you a new bike