How to Remove Bike Crank Without Puller: Easy Step-by-Step Guide for Beginners

1. Introduction

When it comes to maintaining your bike, knowing how to remove bike crank without puller is a valuable skill for beginners and intermediate cyclists alike. Cranks are a crucial part of your bike’s drivetrain, connecting the pedals to the chain and transferring power efficiently. Over time, cranks and their bearings can wear out, causing rough pedaling, noise, or wobbling. Understanding where the bearings are on a bike and how they function is key to safely removing cranks and performing maintenance.

While a dedicated bicycle crank bearing removal tool makes the process easier, there are safe ways to remove a crank without one using common tools like wrenches, a rubber mallet, or a DIY bolt-and-washer setup. Along with crank removal, learning how to fix bike pedal bearings and knowing the differences between cartridge bearing vs sealed bearing systems can help prolong the life of your bike components and reduce future bike crank bearing replacement cost.

This guide will walk you step-by-step through safe techniques for removing cranks, handling bearings, and preventing damage. By following these instructions, even beginners can confidently maintain their bike, keep the drivetrain running smoothly, and save money on repairs while improving their cycling experience.

2. Understanding How a Bike Crank System Works

Before learning how to remove a bike crank without a puller, it’s important to understand how the crank system works. This helps you avoid damaging parts like bearings, threads, or the bottom bracket, especially when using alternative tools.

What the Crank System Does

The bike crank connects your pedals to the chainring and transfers your pedaling force to the drivetrain. It includes:

• Crank arms
• Pedals
• Spindle (also called axle)
• Bottom bracket bearings

When any of these parts wear out, loosen, or make noise, crank removal becomes necessary.

Where Are the Bearings on a Bike?

The crank’s bearings are located in the bottom bracket—the part of the frame where the crank spindle spins. These bearings allow smooth rotation and prevent friction while pedaling.

Depending on the bike, the bottom bracket may use different bearing systems:

• Cartridge bearings
• Sealed bearings
• Cup-and-cone bearings

Beginners often confuse these, so here’s the difference.

Cartridge Bearing vs Sealed Bearing

Although they sound similar, there’s a small difference:

Cartridge Bearings

• The bearings come as a complete, compact unit.
• Easy to install and replace.
• Common on modern bikes.
• Usually replaced as a whole when worn out.
• Often more affordable in terms of bike crank bearing replacement cost.

Sealed Bearings

• Fully enclosed to keep dirt, water, and dust out.
• Extremely durable.
• Difficult to service—typically replaced, not repaired.
• Ideal for riders who encounter mud, rain, or gravel.

Cup-and-Cone Systems

• Found mostly on older or budget bikes.
• Bearings sit loose in the cups.
• Can be cleaned and regreased instead of replaced.
• Requires more skill to adjust properly.

Understanding which system your bike uses helps you choose the right method and tools when removing a crank.

Why Bearing Type Matters for Crank Removal

When removing a crank—especially without a puller:

• Cartridge and sealed systems are generally easier to work with.
• Cup-and-cone systems can loosen or spill bearings if handled incorrectly.
• You may need a bicycle crank bearing removal tool if planning to remove or replace the bearings afterward.

If your bearings feel rough, gritty, or make clicking sounds, you may need to learn how to fix bike pedal bearings or replace the crank bearings at the same time.

3. Tools You Can Use Instead of a Crank Puller

If you want to learn how to remove a bike crank without a puller, the first thing you need is the right set of alternative tools. While a dedicated crank puller is the safest and most reliable option, you can still remove a crank using common household tools—if you work carefully and understand how the crank system fits together. This section explains all the safe alternatives you can use, even if you’re a beginner.

1. Standard Wrenches or Allen Keys

Most crank arms are held in place with either:

• An 8mm Allen key
• A 14mm or 15mm socket wrench

These tools help you loosen the crank bolt before attempting any removal method. Without this step, the crank will not budge.

Pro tip:
Always turn the bolt counterclockwise to loosen it. If the bolt is stuck, apply a little penetrating oil to help release it.

2. Penetrating Oil (WD-40, Liquid Wrench, etc.)

Penetrating oil is extremely helpful when removing a crank without a puller because it:

• Breaks down rust
• Reduces friction
• Loosens tight threads
• Helps free stuck crank arms

Spray the oil around the spindle and give it a few minutes to work. This is especially important if your crank bearings are old or dry. Many cyclists remove their crank to inspect parts like pedal bearings or bottom bracket bearings, especially after learning how to fix bike pedal bearings or when checking where the bearings are on a bike.

3. Rubber Mallet

A rubber mallet is one of the safest tools for tapping the crank arm loose without damaging the metal. Light, controlled taps help move the crank off the spindle.

Why rubber?
It won’t deform aluminum crank arms or strip threads like a steel hammer might.

4. Wooden Block or Spacer

A small piece of wood acts as a protective buffer between the crank and your mallet or wrench. This prevents damage to:

• Crank arm
• Bottom bracket bearings
• Spindle threads

This is especially important if your bike uses delicate bearing systems such as cup-and-cone bearings or sealed cartridge bearings. These parts can be costly to replace, raising your bike crank bearing replacement cost.

5. Bolt + Washer Stack (DIY Mini Puller)

If you want a more controlled method but don’t own a puller, you can create a simple DIY tool using:

• A long bolt
• Two or three metal washers
• A nut

When tightened against the crank, this homemade setup gently pushes the crank off the spindle—similar to what a real puller does.

Safety note:
Make sure the bolt is the correct diameter to avoid damaging the crank threads.

6. Heat Source (Optional and Used Carefully)

A heat gun or even warm water can help expand the metal slightly, making stubborn cranks easier to remove. However, this method should be used carefully to avoid damaging:

• Paint
• Bearings
• Rubber seals

It’s not recommended for bikes with older, serviceable bearing systems like cup-and-cone setups.

7. Bicycle Crank Bearing Removal Tool (If Removing Bearings Too)

If your ultimate goal is to remove or replace the crank bearings—not just the crank arm—you may need a bicycle crank bearing removal tool. This is especially necessary when dealing with internal bottom bracket bearings or comparing cartridge bearings vs sealed bearings.

Even though this guide focuses on removing the crank without a puller, having the right bearing tools helps if you plan to service the bottom bracket afterward.

Final Tip

When using alternative tools, always work slowly and avoid forcing anything. You don’t want to damage your crank threads or bottom bracket bearings, as replacing them can increase your repair cost—especially if you’re already dealing with common expenses like bike crank bearing replacement cost.

Using these household tools properly can make crank removal possible even without a puller—perfect for beginners working on their bikes at home.

4. How to Remove Bike Crank Without a Puller (Step-by-Step)

Learning how to remove a bike crank without a puller is simple if you use the right method and work carefully. Follow these easy steps:

1. Loosen the Crank Bolt

Use an 8mm Allen key or a 14–15mm socket wrench. Loosen the bolt but don’t remove it fully yet—this protects the crank threads during tapping.

2. Apply Penetrating Oil

Spray penetrating oil where the crank meets the spindle. Let it sit for 5 minutes. This helps loosen rust and prevents damage to bearings, especially on older systems like cup-and-cone or sealed cartridge bearings.

3. Tap the Crank Loose

Place a wooden block on the crank arm and gently tap it with a rubber mallet. Do NOT hit the crank directly with metal. This method slowly frees the arm from the spindle.

4. Remove the Bolt and Wiggle the Crank

Once the crank starts moving outward, remove the bolt completely. Wiggle and pull the crank arm until it slides off the spindle.

5. Use DIY Tools if Needed

If the crank is still stuck, use:

• A wooden spacer
• A bolt + washer stack (DIY mini puller)

These add controlled pressure without damaging the crank.

6. Inspect Bearings

With the crank off, check your bottom bracket bearings. Knowing where the bearings are on a bike, and whether you have cartridge bearings vs sealed bearings, helps decide if you need a replacement or a bicycle crank bearing removal tool.

5. How to Remove Bicycle Crank Bearings

Removing bicycle crank bearings is a key part of maintaining your bike, especially after you’ve already learned how to remove a bike crank without a puller. Once the crank arm is off, the bearings become exposed and much easier to work on. Before starting, it’s important to understand where the bearings are on a bike and what type of bottom bracket system you have. Most bikes use either cartridge bearings, sealed bearings, or older cup-and-cone bearings. Cartridge and sealed bearings are usually replaced as a full unit, while cup-and-cone bearings are serviceable and can be cleaned, greased, and reused. Knowing your bearing type will also help you estimate your bike crank bearing replacement cost and choose the right tools.

After removing the crank arm using the loosen-and-tap method or other safe techniques, you can begin accessing the bearings. Many cyclists use a dedicated bicycle crank bearing removal tool, especially for cartridge-style bottom brackets. This tool fits into the notches or splines of the bearing unit and allows you to simply turn it counterclockwise to remove the entire assembly. If your bike uses a cup-and-cone system, you’ll need a thin wrench to loosen the locknut and unscrew the adjustable cup. Once the cup is removed, the loose ball bearings can be gently taken out—just be careful not to drop any, as they are small and essential.

With the bearings removed, take a moment to clean the bottom bracket shell, spindle, and surrounding area. Old grease, dirt, and rust can cause grinding noises, stiff pedaling, and early wear. This is also a good time to check your pedal bearings if you’ve been learning how to fix bike pedal bearings, since both systems often show signs of wear around the same time. Fresh grease should always be applied before installing new bearings or reinstalling serviced ones. Greasing helps protect the system whether you’re using traditional cup-and-cone bearings or more modern cartridge bearings vs sealed bearings.

Once everything is clean and lubricated, you can reinstall or replace the bearings by reversing the removal process. Make sure the bearing system threads in smoothly and rotates freely before reattaching the crank arm. Proper bearing removal, cleaning, and replacement not only makes your ride smoother but also prevents long-term damage that could increase your future bike crank bearing replacement cost. Working carefully and using the right tools ensures even beginners can remove bicycle crank bearings safely and confidently.

6. Fixing and Replacing Crank & Pedal Bearings

Fixing and replacing crank and pedal bearings is an essential part of bike maintenance, especially after you’ve learned how to remove a bike crank without a puller. Bearings are critical for smooth pedaling, and worn or damaged bearings can cause grinding noises, wobbling pedals, and inefficient power transfer. Before starting, it’s important to know where the bearings are on a bike. Crank bearings are located in the bottom bracket, while pedal bearings sit inside the pedals themselves. Identifying the type of bearings—whether cartridge, sealed, or cup-and-cone—helps determine the best repair or replacement method and can affect the overall bike crank bearing replacement cost.

If you’re dealing with worn crank bearings, a bicycle crank bearing removal tool is usually the safest option. Cartridge and sealed bearings are typically replaced as a unit, while cup-and-cone bearings can be disassembled, cleaned, regreased, and reassembled. For pedal bearings, the process is similar: remove the pedal from the crank, carefully open the bearing housing, clean out old grease and debris, and inspect the bearings for wear. If the bearings are damaged or too worn, replacement is the best option. Understanding how to fix bike pedal bearings allows you to extend the life of your pedals and maintain smooth rotation.

Once the bearings are cleaned or replaced, it’s essential to apply fresh grease to both crank and pedal bearings. Grease protects the bearings from dirt, water, and friction, which prolongs their lifespan. For beginners, knowing the difference between cartridge bearing vs sealed bearing systems is helpful, as sealed bearings require less maintenance but may cost more to replace, while cartridge or cup-and-cone bearings can be serviced multiple times at a lower cost. Proper installation of bearings, careful torqueing of bolts, and checking for smooth rotation ensure that the crank and pedals perform optimally and safely.

Regular maintenance of crank and pedal bearings not only improves riding comfort and efficiency but also prevents costly repairs down the line. By following the correct steps for inspection, cleaning, lubrication, and replacement, even beginner cyclists can confidently maintain their bike’s drivetrain. Taking the time to fix or replace bearings correctly ensures smoother rides, reduces wear on other parts, and keeps your bike running efficiently for years to come.

7. Cartridge Bearing vs Sealed Bearing — Which Is Better?

When learning how to remove a bike crank without a puller, understanding the difference between cartridge bearing vs sealed bearing is important, as it influences both maintenance and cost. Bearings are located in the bottom bracket and pedals, and they play a critical role in smooth pedaling and overall bike performance. Cartridge bearings come as a complete, pre-assembled unit. They are easy to replace with a bicycle crank bearing removal tool and typically require minimal adjustment. Because they are replaceable as a whole, cartridge bearings can reduce the time and effort needed for maintenance, making them a good choice for beginners who want a simple solution for crank and pedal upkeep.

On the other hand, sealed bearings are fully enclosed with rubber or metal shields, which protects them from dirt, water, and debris. This makes them highly durable and low-maintenance, but when they wear out, they usually need full replacement rather than repair. Sealed bearings are often found in higher-end bikes and are excellent for riders who frequently cycle in wet or muddy conditions. Understanding where the bearings are on a bike and how they interact with the crank and pedals is key to deciding which type is better for your bike setup. Sealed bearings may slightly increase the bike crank bearing replacement cost, but they offer long-term reliability and reduced maintenance compared to serviceable cartridge or cup-and-cone bearings.

Ultimately, choosing between cartridge and sealed bearings depends on your riding style, maintenance preference, and budget. Cartridge bearings are simple, affordable, and easy to replace, making them ideal for beginners or casual riders. Sealed bearings, while slightly more expensive, provide superior protection and longevity, particularly for aggressive or off-road cycling. Regardless of the type, proper installation, greasing, and periodic inspection—alongside learning how to fix bike pedal bearings—ensure smooth rotation, lower friction, and a longer lifespan for both your crank and pedal bearings.

8. Prevention Tips: Avoid Damaging Your Crank or Bearings

Preventing damage to your crank and bearings is just as important as knowing how to remove a bike crank without a puller. Proper care and maintenance can save you time, money, and headaches, especially when dealing with sensitive parts like the bottom bracket or pedal bearings. One of the most important tips is to always work slowly and use the correct tools. Even if you don’t have a crank puller, alternative methods such as using a rubber mallet with a wooden block or a DIY bolt-and-washer setup should be done carefully to avoid bending the crank arm or damaging the spindle. Knowing where the bearings are on a bike helps you avoid hitting or contaminating them during removal.

Regular cleaning and lubrication are also essential. Bearings, whether cartridge bearings vs sealed bearings, need proper grease to reduce friction and prevent wear. Inspect your crank and pedal bearings frequently, and if you notice rough rotation or grinding, consider servicing or replacing them. Learning how to fix bike pedal bearings and maintaining them properly can extend the life of your entire drivetrain and prevent more expensive repairs. Neglecting small issues can quickly increase your bike crank bearing replacement cost, especially if dirt, rust, or misalignment damages the bearings or spindle.

Finally, always pay attention to torque and installation guidelines when reassembling your crank or bearings. Over-tightening bolts can strip threads or stress the bearings, while under-tightening can cause wobbling and uneven wear. Using proper techniques, applying fresh grease, and routinely checking your bike after rides ensures that your crank and bearings remain in top condition. By following these prevention tips, even beginners can safely maintain their bike, avoid unnecessary damage, and enjoy smooth, efficient pedaling for years to come.

9. Conclusion

In conclusion, learning how to remove a bike crank without a puller is a useful skill for beginners and experienced cyclists alike. Understanding where the bearings are on a bike, the type of system (cartridge bearings vs sealed bearings), and how to maintain crank and pedal bearings helps prevent damage and reduces bike crank bearing replacement cost. Using alternative tools carefully or a bicycle crank bearing removal tool ensures safe removal, while regular cleaning, lubrication, and inspection keep your bike running smoothly. Following these tips makes crank removal and bearing maintenance easier, safer, and more efficient.

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