Creaking internal BB (sram) concert to external?

[Big Rig]

Around 3 weeks ago my commuting bike developed a slightly creaking BB, it’s got a bit worse, most noticeable when putting a lot of force through the pedals.
It’s not the seat post or headset.

A cyclist at work has suggested converting my BB from internal to external as it’ll make future servicing much easier and also external BB’s are better in general?What’s involved in doing this? I don’t want to spend a small fortune on it as it’s probably only worth £200 at the most.

This is the bike for reference...

https://www.thebikelist.co.uk/boardman/hybrid-comp...

[Norgles]

Before spending any money I would start by getting the cranks off, giving it all a nice clean and then a re-grease. If that fails then a new bottom bracket will usually be required.

[Justin S]

Bit of googling shows this is a square taper chainset. Bit old school, but still a standard that was used for many years. You could just try and see if the crank bolts are both tight , as that was one foible that they suffered was coming loose. I think its a 13 or 14mm socket needed or 10mm allen key, depending on what is fitted.
You will need a square taper crank removal tool to remove the cranks to be able to clean the tapers and a little coppaslip to then bolt back on.
Also check the chainring bolts are tight , as had those creak before.
Last case is a replacement bottom bracket , which the bike spec doesnt tell you the type you will need. It will be a metric size ( axle length) X the bottom bracket shell width, which is either 68mm or 73mm . Usually 68mm for your bike. .

[Jimbo.]

Big Rig said:

Around 3 weeks ago my commuting bike developed a slightly creaking BB, it’s got a bit worse, most noticeable when putting a lot of force through the pedals.
It’s not the seat post or headset.

A cyclist at work has suggested converting my BB from internal to external as it’ll make future servicing much easier and also external BB’s are better in general?What’s involved in doing this? I don’t want to spend a small fortune on it as it’s probably only worth £200 at the most.

This is the bike for reference...

https://www.thebikelist.co.uk/boardman/hybrid-comp...

You’ll be needing to change the cranks if you do that. Don’t go to the effort.

I believe it runs a square taper bottom bracket. Get a good one and they’re quite durable. And they’re cheap to buy. Servicing isn’t an issue, as they’re fit and forget.

But, as said above, give the bike some TLC before changing parts.

[Big Rig]

Ok thanks lads. I’ve got a crank removal tool so I’ll whip them off tomorrow and clean & grease them.

[Big Rig]

Update guys, it was the crank arms. I removed them, cleaned and greased and put them back on. The creaking has completely gone now, so thanks!