Deep Clean and Lube Shimano SPD Pedals: A Comprehensive Guide

Updated at: 24/02/2025

Shimano SPD pedals, renowned for their reliability and efficiency, are a staple for cyclists worldwide. However, consistent performance hinges on regular maintenance. Over time, grit, grime, and dried lubricant accumulate within the intricate mechanism, leading to decreased efficiency, sluggish engagement, and even potential damage. Neglecting this crucial aspect can significantly impact your ride, from subtle power loss to frustrating pedal slips during critical moments. A deep clean and lubrication are essential to keeping your SPD pedals operating smoothly and extending their lifespan.

This comprehensive guide provides a detailed, step-by-step process to effectively clean and lubricate your Shimano SPD pedals, restoring them to peak performance. We'll cover everything from the necessary tools and materials to the precise techniques for disassembling, cleaning, reassembling, and lubricating your pedals, ensuring a perfect, effortless engagement every time you clip in. Let's get started!

Preparation and Safety Guidelines

Tools Needed
  • Pedal wrench or 15mm wrench
  • Stiff bristle scrub brush
  • Toothbrush
  • Warm soapy water
  • Degreaser
  • Shimano SPD pedal tool (TL-PD40 or similar)
  • 17mm wrench (for some SPD models)
  • Grease gun
  • Marine grease (or preferred grease)
  • Medium-weight oil (chain lube recommended)
Safety Guidelines
  • Always use the correct tools for the job to avoid damaging the pedals or injuring yourself. Improper tools can strip screws or cause slippage.
  • Before disassembling, take photos or make a diagram showing the order of parts. This will make reassembly significantly easier and prevent confusion.
  • Use a degreaser specifically designed for bicycle components and avoid harsh chemicals that could damage seals or bearings. Thoroughly rinse and dry all parts before reassembly.

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Remove Pedals

    • Remove pedals from bike. Unscrew drive-side pedal counter-clockwise (8.37s)
    • Remove non-drive-side pedal clockwise (38.04s)
    Remove non-drive-side pedal clockwise (38.04s)Remove non-drive-side pedal clockwise (38.04s)
    Remove Pedals

  2. Clean External Pedal Surfaces

    • Clean the outside of the pedals with warm soapy water and degreaser, using brushes (65.309s)
    Clean the outside of the pedals with warm soapy water and degreaser, using brushes (65.309s)
    Clean External Pedal Surfaces

  3. Remove Spindle Cartridge

    • Remove the spindle cartridge. Use the appropriate tool (TL-PD40 or 17mm wrench depending on pedal model) (96.6s)
    Remove the spindle cartridge. Use the appropriate tool (TL-PD40 or 17mm wrench depending on pedal model) (96.6s)
    Remove Spindle Cartridge

  4. Clean Internal Components

    • Clean the spindle and pedal body with degreaser and a paper towel (267.57s)
    Clean the spindle and pedal body with degreaser and a paper towel (267.57s)
    Clean Internal Components

  5. Grease Pedal Body

    • Grease the pedal body (about a quarter full) using a grease gun (311.22s)
    Grease the pedal body (about a quarter full) using a grease gun (311.22s)
    Grease Pedal Body

  6. Reinstall Spindle Cartridge

    • Screw the spindle back in, following the arrow markings to ensure correct threading (348.15s)
    • Tighten the spindle with the wrench. Don't overtighten (358.98s)
    Tighten the spindle with the wrench. Don't overtighten (358.98s)Tighten the spindle with the wrench. Don't overtighten (358.98s)
    Reinstall Spindle Cartridge

  7. Lubricate External Mechanisms

    • Lube external parts with medium-weight oil (chain lube) (412.19s)
    Lube external parts with medium-weight oil (chain lube) (412.19s)
    Lubricate External Mechanisms

  8. Clean Excess Lubricant

    • Wipe off excess grease and oil (454.25s)
    Wipe off excess grease and oil (454.25s)
    Clean Excess Lubricant

  9. Reinstall Pedals

    • Reinstall pedals onto bike (463.34s)
    Reinstall pedals onto bike (463.34s)
    Reinstall Pedals

Read more: Silence Creaky Look Pedals & Cleats: A Permanent Beeswax & Xylene Solution

Tips

  • Pay attention to the arrow markings on the pedals to determine the correct threading direction (158.52s)
  • Work on one pedal at a time to avoid mixing up spindles (207.06s)
  • Use proper tools to avoid damaging the pedals (251.55s)
  • Don't overtighten the spindle, especially the plastic parts (393.5s)
  • Use a medium-weight oil that will stay in place for external lubrication (419.18s)

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Over-tightening the screws

Reason: Stripping the screw threads or damaging the pedal body.
Solution: Use the correct torque wrench setting or tighten by hand until snug, then slightly more.

2. Using the wrong type of grease

Reason: Improper lubrication leading to premature wear, increased friction, and potential seizing.
Solution: Use a high-quality waterproof grease specifically designed for bicycle components.

FAQs

How often should I deep clean and lubricate my Shimano SPD pedals?
The frequency depends on your riding conditions. For regular road riding in dry conditions, once or twice a year might suffice. However, if you ride frequently in muddy or wet conditions, more frequent cleaning – every few months – is recommended. Always inspect your pedals after every muddy ride and clean them as needed.
Proper pedal maintenance is crucial for optimal performance and longevity, especially if you're putting in serious miles. This guide will walk you through a thorough deep clean and lubrication of your Shimano SPD pedals. Choosing the right pedals in the first place is also key, however; if you're looking to upgrade your setup and haven't yet selected the best option for your touring needs, you might find our previous article on selecting the ideal touring bike pedals helpful. Understanding how to maintain them, as detailed below, will help maximize your investment in high-quality components.