On finding the rusty bolt
and the last step before you walk away
I have my winter project dear reader.
In addition to training for another season of riding, I’m building up that old bike.
Though I love that old bike, but its brakes are weak and the old bars would murder my shoulders and upper back.
And the cranks?
I had one break under heavy pedaling. I was attempting to sneak through Spadina Avenue at Queen Street. I needed to time everything perfectly, lest I become a speed bump for a streetcar.
Those cranks are under a lifetime safety recall.
So I’m switching up some parts and replacing those cranks.
Luckily, dear reader, I don’t need to buy a lot of the parts.
Instead, I have a sacrificial parts bike.
It’s like harvesting kidneys.
That’s not true. It’s not at all like harvesting kidneys.
No one would complain about all of the have disassembled kidney carriages hanging around the yard.
The parts bike has been a willing donor - mostly.
Old pedals and seat posts - parts that frequently are about as cooperative as rush hour traffic - they came off without a hitch.
Quill stems and cockpit parts were removed with ease.
But every project runs into its share of rusty bolts. On the parts bike, I found that damn bolt. It attached the cable to the arm on the left side of the front brake. It was rusted in place. To make matters worse the Allen key hole was clouded with rust as well.
I tried for a moment or two, but sometimes whey you’re working with rusty parts and seized bolts it’s a good idea to walk away for a bit.
But before leaving?
Pull out the lube.
Me? I chose a penetrating silicone spray.
Well I sprayed, then left.
Ten minutes later, that lube had worked its magic.
With a quick twist of the wrist, that brake bolt broke free and began to spin.
Then the part came of and went into the bin.
Eventually?
This bike that I’m building is going to be an uncompromising work of perfection.
What a project eh?
But on my way there, I’m sure there’ll be a few more of those rusty old bolts.
Thank god, I’m good with the lube.
Cookie Dough Fundraiser - Just a reminder
I’m selling cookie dough as part of a fundraiser for my son’s soccer team.
They’re going to Spain to train
Help send the boy to a hot place this August by buying some cookie dough.
I deliver.
Cost: $10 per order. Makes 42 cookies.
No muss no fuss.
Reply to this email and I’ll hook you up with the best cookie dough ever.