Remove A Shimano Hollowtech Crankset On A Bike

Introduction

Shimano Hollowtech cranks have a hollow axle that is connected to the right-hand crank. They are simple to remove.

Step 1

Unlock Left-hand Crank - Remove A Shimano Hollowtech Crankset On A Bike

Unlock Left-hand Crank

Undo the pinch bolts clamping the left-hand Shimano Hollowtech crank to the axle.

Step 2

Undo Pre-load Cap - Remove A Shimano Hollowtech Crankset On A Bike

Undo Pre-load Cap

Undo and remove the plastic pre-load cap. It's only finger tight and is removed with a special plastic tool, designed specifically for Shimano Hollowtech cranksets.

Step 3

Lift The Safety Tab - Remove A Shimano Hollowtech Crankset On A Bike

Lift The Safety Tab

Use a small screw driver to lift the plastic safety tab.

Step 4

Pull Off The Left-hand Crank - Remove A Shimano Hollowtech Crankset On A Bike

Pull Off The Left-hand Crank

Wiggle the left-hand crank to loosen it and pull it off.

Step 5

Tap Out The Axle - Remove A Shimano Hollowtech Crankset On A Bike

Tap Out The Axle

Use a soft hammer to tap out the axle and right-hand Shimano Hollowtech crank.