Overhauling a 3-piece bicycle bottom bracket is a relatively straightforward process that can be completed with basic tools and some patience. Here's a step-by-step guide:

Tools and Materials Needed:

✅ Allen wrenches (hex keys)
✅ Bottom Bracket Hook tool.
✅ Spanner Tool
✅ Crank Puller.
✅ Bearing grease
✅ Clean rags.
✅ Hammer or mallet (optional)

Steps:

1. Identify your bottom bracket: Before you start, you need to identify the type of bottom bracket you have. There are two main types of bottom brackets: threaded and cartridge.

2. Remove the cranks: You will need a crank puller. There are two main types of crank pullers: pullers that use bolts and pullers that use a press. To use a bolt-type crank puller, insert the bolts into the crank arms and tighten them until the cranks pull off.

3. Remove the bottom bracket cups: To remove the threaded bottom bracket cups, use a socket wrench to loosen the lockring. Once the lockring is loose, you can use a hammer or mallet to tap the cups out of the frame.

4. Clean the bottom bracket bearings: Once the bottom bracket cups are removed, you will need to clean the bearings. Use a clean rag to wipe away any old grease or dirt from the bearings. Pay particular attention to the races and cages.

5. Grease the bottom bracket bearings: Apply a thin layer of bottom bracket bearing grease to the bearings. Be sure to pack the grease evenly into the bearing cages.

6. Reinstall the bottom bracket cups: Once the bearings are greased, you can reinstall the bottom bracket cups. For threaded bottom brackets, thread the cups into the frame until they are snug.

7. Reinstall the cranks: To reinstall the cranks, simply slide them onto the bottom bracket spindle and tighten the crank bolts.

8. Test the bottom bracket: Once the bottom bracket is reassembled, check for any play in the headset. There should be no noticeable play. If there is play, you may need to adjust the bottom bracket cups.

Additional Tips:

✅ If your bottom bracket is particularly stubborn to remove, you may need to use a penetrating oil to loosen it.
✅ Be careful not to overtighten the bottom bracket cups, as this can damage the bearings.
✅ If you are not comfortable overhauling your bottom bracket yourself, you can take your bike to a professional bicycle mechanic.

With these tips, you should be able to successfully overhaul your 3-piece bicycle bottom bracket.