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Cleat Screws NEVER stay tight...what gives?

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Cleat Screws NEVER stay tight...what gives?

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Old 09-02-04, 11:07 AM
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Brahman Bull
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Cleat Screws NEVER stay tight...what gives?

The screws connecting my cleats to the shoes always come loose after about 2 rides. I am constantly tightening down with all my strength just to get by. Can anybody tell me if this is normal? Is there anything I can do to cut this down? I use Shimano SPD-SL pedals, Shimano SPD-SL No Float cleats and Sidi Genius 4 shoes. Please Help! Thanks.
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Old 09-02-04, 11:10 AM
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not normal. Either use Lock-tite -- found at hardware and automotive stores -- or contact Sidi or try new screws.
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Old 09-02-04, 11:11 AM
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Apply some Loctite to the bolts. Blue or red I use either for my "don't want the bolts to come loose" needs. One of them is stronger then the other though, I think the red stuff is. That should help.
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Old 09-02-04, 11:40 AM
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I had the same problem - except I didn't realize they were coming loose until I lost a bolt and couldn't get out of the pedal. I used locktite and never had the problem again.

On the other hand, the locktite that I used will stay secure until something like 500 degrees F. There wouldn't be much left of the shoe if I got the bolts to that temperature, I don't think. So either make sure you have a locktite that is easily breakable or make sure that you have the exact adjustment you want on the cleats, b/c they ain't movin after you are done. I can't remember if SPDs have any adjustments or not, but it's something to think about.
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Old 09-02-04, 12:53 PM
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I'm guessing everyone recommends Loctite "Threadlock" either Red or Blue. Thanks for the help and i'll give it a shot today or tomorrow.
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Old 09-02-04, 01:15 PM
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Had the same problem once. I spent 25 cents on a few lock washers. Problem solved.
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Old 09-02-04, 01:24 PM
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Use either blue or purple Loctite. If you use red, you might as well just throw the shoes out when the cleats wear out. Blue is medium strength (still able to remove the bolts with normal hand tools) and purple is light duty (enough locking to keep a small, non-vibrated fastener from loosening up). I had the same issue but I was able to torque mine enough that they now stay. If I have to remove them sometime for some good reason, I'll be using some Loctite.
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Old 09-02-04, 01:24 PM
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Use the Blue loctite if you would ever like to get them off. Red is a bit more permanent.
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Old 09-02-04, 02:13 PM
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Blue Loctite is what you need
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Old 09-02-04, 02:37 PM
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I get hex bolts from the hardware store, you can get them in 8mm or 10mm etc.

Then you can tighten your cleats with big ass wrench, instead of a screwdriver.

They dont strip or tear like standard screw heads can.
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Old 09-02-04, 04:40 PM
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Ill try the Blue Loctite w/ some Hex bolts. Sounds like this worked for everyone. Thanks again guys!!!
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"The bicycle has a soul. If you are able to love it as it deserves, it will give you emotions you will never forget." -Mario Cipollini
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