Cleaning Bottom Bracket Threads

I had a frame re sprayed a while back and its been sitting in my shed waiting to be built up. So today I tried fitting the BB and I've noticed the threads seem to be really blocked up with grit, which I guess has been left over from the frame being sandblasted.

The problem is the grit doesn't seem to want to budge (tried white spirit with wire wool and an old toothbrush) and the BB cups only screw in a few turns before getting stuck and I certainly don't want to try and force it and risk damaging the threads.

So anyone got any tips for cleaning the threads out or do I need to take it down to my LBS to get them chased?

I had the same problem a while back. Ended up getting the threading re cut

Clicky click > Maintain that sexy (or not so sexy) track BB - Bike Forums
This may help removal of BB and cleaning ete....

Ta for the link, useful info.
I have a feeling that I'll have to get the threads chased though. I'm guessing that the BB shell wasn't properly cleaned out after sand blasting and some grit was left through the re-spray and baking process which is a bit shoddy of the frame painters!

Oops well good luck with sorting it out :)

Ta for the link, useful info.
I have a feeling that I'll have to get the threads chased though. I'm guessing that the BB shell wasn't properly cleaned out after sand blasting and some grit was left through the re-spray and baking process which is a bit shoddy of the frame painters!

Exactly what I was thinking when I read the OP.

You could try using a brass wire brush, available for a couple of quid from any hardware store. Or borrow mine.

If you've got an old BB shell, make two or three cuts across the threads with a hacksaw, clean up any burrs with a file and then wind the old shell in and out of the bad threads a few times. This will recut the threads through any paint and gunge. Do it slow and don't wind it in tight; this generates heat which will make it bind some more. In slowly and out, clean it, in and out again. Careful use of paint stripper will soften whatever paint they have used.

I hope this helps.

You could try using a brass wire brush, available for a couple of quid from any hardware store.

+1

ive used a toothbrush and some white spirit. did the job no problem. i was pretty careful not to get any spirit on the paint but it didnt seem to effect it.

Your best off dropping it into a local cycle shop that has a pair of B/B taps, that way they can chase out any dirt caught in the threads.

Or do as de Selby mentioned and make your own makeshift shit-catcher (tech. term) out of an old sealed unit. This worked for me when cleaning the head-bolt threads out in the block of my polo.

you need re thread the shel, go to some bike shop and ask.... good luck