Expert: Dave - 8/19/2008

Question
Hi,
I have a schwinn dual suspension mountain bike, (Impact) and have been hearing noises from the bottom bracket. I took off the non gear side pedal arm and cleaned out the bearing, which is just roller bearing with a cup and adjuster. The other side is also making noise. The design seem poor in that there is no seal to keep water and dirt out on a mountain bike! Do you know if they make a sealed bearing bottom bracket assembly that would replace the non sealed ball bearing assemble that I have, or any tricks at keeping the dirt and water out of the assembly? Please advise and thank you for your help.

Answer
Hello Frank. I first of all would like to apologize for the very long delay in my response to your question. My electricity and internet was affected by the recent tropical storm in Florida.

I am not positive but I'm pretty sure that a brand called RockWerks makes a sealed bottom bracket for the type of bottom bracket you seem to have. If that is not the brand name, my apologies. I am certain that there is a sealed bottom bracket for your bike. Your local bike shop will have one.

If you have the other types of bottom brackets, most of them are sealed and if not, you can easily find one. If you need more help with your bottom bracket or have other questions please feel free to ask.
-Dave