Step-by-Step: Bearing Replacement in EX 1700 SPLINE Wheels

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DT Swiss is renowned for its high-quality wheels, and the EX 1700 SPLINE [paid link] is no exception. These wheels are designed for durability and performance, but like any mechanical component, the bearings can wear out over time. Replacing the bearings in your EX 1700 SPLINE [paid link] wheels is a crucial part of maintaining the wheelset and ensuring smooth, reliable performance. This guide provides a detailed, step-by-step process for replacing the bearings in your EX 1700 SPLINE wheels.

Tools Required

  • Bearing press [paid link] or extraction tool
  • 5mm Allen wrench [paid link]
  • 10mm and 12mm socket wrenches
  • Torque wrench [paid link]
  • Clean rag or towel
  • Bike stand [paid link] (optional, but recommended)
  • Grease (preferably a waterproof bicycle grease)
  • Plastic mallet (optional, depending on bearing tightness)
  • Bearing grease or oil for lubrication

Step 1: Prepare Your Workspace

Before starting the bearing replacement process, ensure that your workspace is clean and well-organized. You’ll need a solid surface to work on and a clean cloth to place your wheel on while disassembling. Using a bike stand [paid link] to hold the wheel can make the process more efficient, but it’s not mandatory.

Remove the Wheel from the Bike

  • Start by removing the wheel from your bike. If it’s the rear wheel, disengage the cassette or freehub body to give you full access to the hub.
  • Use the appropriate tools to remove the wheel from the bike frame, ensuring that no dirt or debris enters the hub during this process.

Step 2: Disassemble the Hub

To replace the bearings, you must first disassemble the hub of your EX 1700 SPLINE wheel.

Remove the Freehub Body

  • Use the 5mm Allen wrench [paid link] to remove any bolts securing the freehub body to the hub shell.
  • Slide the freehub body off the hub. Be careful not to lose any small washers or spacers.

Remove the Hub Shell End Caps

  • Use the 10mm or 12mm socket wrench to remove the end caps from both sides of the hub. These caps protect the bearings and can be easily removed with a bit of force.
  • Keep track of the caps and washers, as they may need to be reinstalled later.

Step 3: Extract the Old Bearings

The EX 1700 SPLINE wheels typically use sealed bearings, which can be removed using a bearing press [paid link] or extraction tool.

Use the Bearing Press or Extraction Tool

  • Insert the bearing extraction tool into the bearing cavity. Carefully press out the old bearings from both the hub shell and the freehub body.
  • If the bearings are stubborn or stuck, tap gently with a plastic mallet to loosen them, being cautious not to damage the hub.

Inspect the Bearings

  • Once the bearings are removed, inspect the condition of the bearing races. If the races are scratched or damaged, you’ll need to replace the entire bearing.

Step 4: Install the New Bearings

With the old bearings removed, it’s time to install the new ones. Ensure that you have the correct replacement bearings for your EX 1700 SPLINE wheels.

Clean the Bearing Cavity

  • Before installing the new bearings, clean the bearing cavity thoroughly with a clean rag. Any dust, dirt, or old grease can interfere with the smooth operation of the new bearings.

Lubricate the Bearings

  • Apply a thin layer of bearing grease or oil to the inner race of the new bearings. This helps to reduce friction and ensures a smoother operation once installed.

Press the New Bearings Into Place

  • Using the bearing press, carefully press the new bearings into the hub shell and freehub body. Ensure they are seated properly, with no gaps around the edges.
  • If necessary, tap gently with the plastic mallet to seat the bearings fully. Be cautious when applying force to avoid damaging the bearing or hub.

Step 5: Reassemble the Hub

Once the new bearings are in place, it’s time to reassemble the hub.

Reinstall the Freehub Body

  • Slide the freehub body back onto the hub shell. Ensure it fits snugly into the hub with no wobble.
  • Use the 5mm Allen wrench to secure the freehub body in place, tightening the bolt to the manufacturer’s recommended torque specification.

Reinstall the Hub Shell End Caps

  • Reattach the end caps to both sides of the hub, ensuring they are seated properly. Use the socket wrench to tighten them securely.

Step 6: Reinstall the Wheel on the Bike

Once your EX 1700 SPLINE wheel is fully reassembled, it’s time to put it back on your bike.

Reinstall the Wheel

  • Place the wheel back onto the bike frame, securing it in place with the quick-release or thru-axle system.
  • If you removed the cassette or freehub body earlier, reinstall it onto the freehub body.
  • Tighten all bolts and components to the correct torque settings.

Step 7: Test the Wheel

After the bearing replacement and reinstallation are complete, test the wheel to ensure everything is functioning correctly.

Spin the Wheel

  • Spin the wheel by hand to check for any unusual resistance or roughness. The wheel should rotate smoothly without any grinding or sticking.
  • Listen for any abnormal sounds, which could indicate improper bearing installation.

Check for Play

  • Check for any side-to-side play in the wheel. If there is noticeable play, ensure that the bearings are fully seated and that all components are correctly tightened.

Troubleshooting Common Set-up Issues

Even after replacing the bearings, you may encounter some common issues. Here are a few things to check:

  • Wheel is not spinning smoothly: If the wheel feels rough or doesn’t spin freely, ensure the bearings are correctly installed and that no debris is obstructing the bearing cavity.
  • Excessive play in the wheel: If you notice side-to-side play, double-check that the freehub body is properly installed and that the end caps are correctly seated.
  • Unusual noise: A buzzing or grinding sound could indicate that the bearings are not properly lubricated or seated. Recheck the bearing installation and lubrication.

Conclusion

Replacing the bearings in your DT Swiss EX 1700 SPLINE wheels is a straightforward process when following the right steps. By regularly maintaining your bearings, you can prolong the lifespan of your wheelset and ensure that your rides remain smooth and enjoyable. Always take care to use the proper tools and double-check each step for the best results.