Cinch Crank Preload Ring Screw: Understanding The Right Fit

The preload ring screw size for a Race Face Cinch crankset is M3x10. The preload ring is made of plastic and is prone to cracking and stripping, especially when overtightened. Alternatives to the stock plastic preload ring include the Cane Creek Crank Preloader, which is made of aluminium and comes with a titanium screw.

Race Face Cinch Preload Collar Screw

The preload collar screw on the non-drive side of a Race Face Cinch crank is a common source of frustration for mountain bike enthusiasts. The screw is used to adjust the lateral bearing preload or the tension on the bottom bracket bearings. While it is a crucial component for maintaining the performance of your bike, the preload collar screw can be challenging to replace if it becomes damaged or stripped.

One issue that has been reported by users is the difficulty in finding a replacement for the preload collar and screw. The part, identified as F30022, may not be readily available through typical online sources or local bike shops (LBS). Race Face customer support has suggested that the best option is to purchase the part through an authorized dealer, but this can be inconvenient if you don't have easy access to one.

To address a stripped preload collar screw, some users have suggested creative solutions. One approach is to use a screw extractor or a Dremel tool to cut a slot in the head of the screw, allowing you to remove it. Once the damaged screw is out, you can explore alternative sources for a replacement. Hardware stores or online platforms like eBay may carry suitable M3-M10 304 A2 stainless steel socket Allen head cap screws that can serve as a substitute.

It's important to note that the preload collar and screw are specifically designed for the Race Face 30mm Cinch System cranks. The diameter of the collar is 30mm, and it is made of nylon. When replacing the screw, ensure that you use the correct screw size and type to avoid further complications.

Cane Creek eeWings Titanium crank set

The Cane Creek eeWings Titanium crank set is a premium mountain bike crank set. It is constructed using the world's lightest and strongest metal, precision-machined from 6/4 titanium. The cranks are as light as carbon cranks but offer significantly more durability and impact resistance, with industry-leading power transfer. They are backed by a 10-year warranty and designed to last a lifetime.

The eeWings Titanium crank set comes with a fully machined, 7000 series CNC'd aluminum preloader for precise bottom bracket bearing preload adjustment and a perfect fit with your frame. The 2.5mm hex head allows for confident and secure adjustment. The preloader is also available individually for use with third-party cranks.

The crank set is characterized by its radial, sawtooth profile, which minimizes overlapping and redundant material while maintaining incredible torsional rigidity with very few parts. It is secured with a single, oversized stainless steel fixing bolt.

The Cane Creek eeWings Titanium crank set fits almost every bike frame and is compatible with popular drivetrains. It has incredible low weight and incredible durability, making it the holy grail crank for every type of MTB.

The eeWings Titanium crank set has received positive reviews, with customers praising its appearance, quality, and performance. It has been described as a "nice, classy, and well-made product" that works great and offers peace of mind.

SRAM, RaceFace and Easton crank spindles

The preload ring screw is an important component for adjusting the tension on the bottom bracket bearings in your bike. It helps to remove side-to-side play and slack, maximising the lifespan of the bearings and ensuring a smooth, creak-free ride.

The Muc-Off Crank Preload Ring is a precision CNC-machined 7075 aluminium piece of hardware that fits onto the left crank arm of SRAM, RaceFace or Easton 30mm spindle cranks, as well as SRAM DUB 28.99mm spindles. It comes with a threaded adapter ring for a perfect fit and is available in 12 anodised colours.

The preload ring screw is also available from other manufacturers, such as Kogel Bearings, who offer a preload adjuster for SRAM, Easton and Race Face cranksets. Cane Creek also offers a preload adjuster that fits onto 30mm crank spindles from SRAM and RaceFace, as well as 28.99mm SRAM Dub Crank spindles.

When selecting a crankset for your bike, it's important to consider the right spindle length and chain ring. For most trail and all-mountain bikes, the recommended length is 136mm for 30mm diameter spindles and 137mm for 24mm diameter spindles. The Race Face website provides a comprehensive guide to selecting the right crank for your bike, including information on spindle length, chainline, bottom bracket shell width and type, and rear hub spacing.

Bottom bracket bearing lifespan

The lifespan of a bottom bracket bearing is dependent on several factors, including the quality of the bearing, the amount of use, and the maintenance carried out. Here are some ways to maximise the lifespan of your bottom bracket bearing:

Choose a High-Quality Bearing

Select a durable and precision-made bottom bracket bearing, such as the Muc-Off Crank Preload Ring. This product is made from super durable, precision CNC machined 7075 aluminium and is designed to maximise the lifespan of your bottom bracket bearing.

Regular Maintenance

Regular maintenance and cleaning of your bottom bracket bearing can help extend its lifespan. It is recommended to periodically spray a protectant onto the bearing to ensure there is zero corrosion. Additionally, keeping the bearing well-greased can also help maintain its performance and longevity.

Adjust the Preload Tension

Adjusting the 'preload' tension on the bottom bracket bearings can help maximise their lifespan. The preload tension can be adjusted using a preload ring, such as the Muc-Off Crank Preload Ring or the Cane Creek Crank Preloader. This adjustment helps to remove side-to-side play and slack, reducing the wear and tear on the bearings.

Compatibility

Ensuring compatibility between your bottom bracket bearing and your bike is crucial. Using an incompatible bottom bracket bearing can lead to increased wear and tear, reducing its lifespan. Check the manufacturer's instructions and specifications to ensure you are using the correct bottom bracket bearing for your bike.

Smooth Movement

A bottom bracket bearing should have smooth and free movement. If you notice any resistance or stiffness, it may be an indication of excessive preload tension or other issues. Adjust the preload tension or consult a bike specialist to diagnose and rectify the problem.

By following these guidelines and maintaining your bottom bracket bearing, you can maximise its lifespan and enjoy a smooth and efficient riding experience.

Muc-Off Crank Pre-Load Ring

The Muc-Off Crank Pre-Load Ring is a precision CNC-machined 7075 piece of hardware that helps maximise the lifespan of bottom bracket bearings. It allows you to precisely adjust the 'preload' tension on the bottom bracket bearings, which helps to remove the side-to-side play and slack in thru-spindle bottom brackets. This, in turn, helps to maximise the life of your bottom bracket bearing and gives you a creak-free ride. The preload ring fits almost every left crank arm on mountain bikes, e-bikes, gravel bikes, and road bikes.

The Muc-Off Crank Pre-Load Ring is compatible with the following:

• SRAM 30mm spindle cranks
• Race Face 30mm spindle crank
• Easton 30mm spindle cranks
• SRAM DUB 28.99mm Spindles
• UNITE 30mm spindle cranks

The product is made from super durable, precision CNC-machined 7075 aluminium with a threaded adapter ring for a perfect fit. It also features stainless steel hardware. The preload ring is available in 12 anodised colours.

To install the Muc-Off Crank Pre-Load Ring, you will need the following tools:

• Bike tools to remove your cranks
• A bottle of thread lock (Loctite 638 or similar)

The installation process is as follows:

• Place the bike in a bike stand.
• Remove the chain completely or remove it from the front chainring.
• Remove the entire crankset according to the manufacturer's instructions. Loosen the bolt on the OEM crank ring with an appropriately-sized tool.
• Turn the ring clockwise one full turn.
• Pull on the crank ring to remove the entire assembly, including the spacer ring.
• Place the OEM crank ring to one side, as it will not be reused.
• Clean the crank spindle thoroughly using Muc-Off Bio Degreaser.
• Unbox the Muc-Off Crank Pre-Load Ring.
• Slide the appropriate Muc-Off spacer ring onto the crank spindle.
• Check that you have the correct size installed; it should be a tight fit, and the spacer ring should not wobble.
• Remove the spacer ring and apply a small amount of thread lock to the area of the spindle where the spacer ring will be located.
• Slide the spacer ring back onto the spindle.
• Wipe away any excess thread lock, avoiding contact with the threads.
• Rotate the spacer half a turn to ensure good thread lock coverage.
• Leave the thread lock to set for 24 hours.
• Screw the Pre-Load Ring onto the spacer until it is finger tight.
• Reinstall the crankset onto the bike.
• Unscrew the Preload Ring following the directional arrows, until it touches the bottom bracket bearing. This does not need to be tight, just enough to stop the crankset from moving.
• Tighten the stainless bolt to 1Nm torque with a 2mm Hex Key.
• Give the cranks a spin to ensure everything is moving smoothly. If there is too much resistance, loosen the bolt and back off the Preload Ring slightly.
• Periodically spray a protectant such as HCB-1, MO-94, or Bike Spray onto the body to ensure there is zero corrosion.

The Muc-Off Crank Pre-Load Ring retails at £24.99/ $39.99 / €32.99 and is available from the Muc-Off global dealer network, select e-retailers, and directly from www.muc-off.com.

Frequently asked questions