Tech/Repair/Parts

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Hey guys,

I have a bike that has a bad crank.  It's a 1998 Huffy TL-88. Here's
the best product description page I could find:
http://bmx.transworld.net/21026438/news/bike-check-huffy-tl-88/

Problem Description:
(Please excuse my terminology)
Whats happening is the "teeth" (splines?) of the spindle are worn down
and they no longer fit flush with the teeth/spline on the crank arm so
the "spindle bolt" is constantly coming loose and therefore making the
problem worse by deforming the teeth/spindles" further.

I've called Huffy Parts and they aren't able to even find the bike
model in their parts inventory system (they told me they stopped
carrying any BMX bikes or parts for at least 5 or 6 years).  I can't
seem to get a straight answer on whether or not I can replace the
crank assembly with aftermarket components.  Can I just look for any
170mm 3 Piece Crank or are there further considerations I need to
consider?  I was very surprised to find that the Profile SS Cranks are
upwards of $150.  Is it possible to just replace the spindle itself?
I'm guessing I would also need new crank arms too since they are
probably deformed at this point as well.

Reply

Nice. When a spindle is that badly worn, and the cranks are no longer made anywhere, there's usually not much to do but buy a new crank set. Glad you found something that worked.