Quick Release wheel spindles
01-21-21, 12:38 PM
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Quick Release wheel spindles
How long do they last? I have 2 which've gone on for 11 years or so nowm since I got the bike. It's not donw so many miles in all since I only do short trips. any info on this?
01-21-21, 02:39 PM
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Wheel spindles?
What part would that be?
If you start with a good quality hub, properly adjusted, and treat it to regular maintenance, it can last near enough ”forever”.
What part would that be?
If you start with a good quality hub, properly adjusted, and treat it to regular maintenance, it can last near enough ”forever”.
01-21-21, 03:51 PM
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Do you mean the skewers?
They pretty much last forever.
They pretty much last forever.
01-21-21, 06:53 PM
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Maybe he means the axles.
01-22-21, 06:54 AM
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I meant the skewers. They seemed the weakest link. If it suddenly went then i too could suddenly go . . .to my new forever home You do wonder how they stand up to all the buffeting, and the times you hit potholes, kerbs and goodness knows what.
01-22-21, 07:36 AM
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You're overthinking. Don't worry. They last a LONG time. I have some original on bikes that are at least 30 years old. Just as long as they aren't badly rusted or close to that, I wouldn't even worry.
01-22-21, 10:13 AM
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My understanding of skewers are the internal cam, traditional Campy, Suntour, Shimano, made from steel generally last a lifetime; although I do remember there was a Shimano recall a while back.
The only skewers that might have a limited life are probably aluminum, generally external cam, that can wear from use. I haven’t experienced a failure, but then again, I don’t use them. I’d rather sacrifice a few grams and feel more secure, especially on a mountain bike.
John
The only skewers that might have a limited life are probably aluminum, generally external cam, that can wear from use. I haven’t experienced a failure, but then again, I don’t use them. I’d rather sacrifice a few grams and feel more secure, especially on a mountain bike.
John
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01-22-21, 12:01 PM
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You could buy a bike with through-axles.
01-22-21, 01:03 PM
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The only QR skewer failures I have heard of were the under-engineered Hi-E fronts, which comprised an aluminum axle and threaded end caps.
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Capo: 1959 Modell Campagnolo, S/N 40324; 1960 Sieger (2), S/N 42624, 42597
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"Far and away the best prize that life offers is the chance to work hard at work worth doing." --Theodore Roosevelt
Capo: 1959 Modell Campagnolo, S/N 40324; 1960 Sieger (2), S/N 42624, 42597
Carlton: 1962 Franco Suisse, S/N K7911
Peugeot: 1970 UO-8, S/N 0010468
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01-22-21, 01:05 PM
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I replaced all my external cam QRs with Ultegras. A few extra grams but absolutely bulletproof.
01-25-21, 06:01 PM
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I've been using the same Rolf external cam skewers for ~17 years, and see no reason to change. I inspect them and give them a lick of grease every so often. I personally would avoid Al or even Ti skewers - the marginal weight saving over steel isn't worth it to me. Also, while they need to be firmly clamped, there's no need to go completely medieval - what with vertical dropouts and lawyer lips, a reasonably firmly clamped QR is going to keep everything in place.
02-09-21, 04:24 PM
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@peterws - The skewers o not support the wheel. The axle supports the wheel and should be held in place by the drop outs. The skewer only clamps the wheel in position with the axle taking all the load. I how you are not using the lever as a way to tighten the skewer by rotating it. It is only used to clamp ithe skewer closed. The other end of the skewer has a "nut" on it that adjusts the length of the skewer. To adjust, simply start closing the lever, When the lever is sticking straight out from the wheel, about half way through the clamping, you should start feeling some resistance. Try to close it with the palm of your hand until it is will not move more. Here is an example.
P1000498n on Flickr
It should leave a small impression in your hand after closing. More important in the back as the axle could slip from pedaling.
P1000498n on FlickrIt should leave a small impression in your hand after closing. More important in the back as the axle could slip from pedaling.
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02-09-21, 06:36 PM
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I hope you are now feeling reassured. If not, I can show you the quick release skewers on a 1971 Raleigh Super Course that are fully operational. 
02-11-21, 08:02 PM
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I still use Zeus and Campagnolo skewers from the 1970s and they're doing fine. These parts don't carry load, so as long as they're not "stupid light" (I'm looking at you, Hi-E) and you don't abuse them, they should last pretty much forever.
02-14-21, 11:24 AM
#17
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I have broken skewers before through abuse; but never yet have I worn one out.
