You can, I've recently done it, the only problem is that crank bolts are a bit fatter than your average washer. I would suggest taking one of the bolts with you to a good hardware store (shop if your in the UK ;-)) and they should be able to sort you out with something that will fit and away you go.Spectre said:What's the best way of converting a triple chainring crankset to a single chainring? Can I use a washer to compensate for the lack of a chainring?
...to the hardware store as others suggest to find the perfect-sized washers, why not pop in at the closest shop that sells BMX* bikes instead, and pick up a set of proper length bolts? They'll look more sano than using washers.Spectre said:What's the best way of converting a triple chainring crankset to a single chainring? Can I use a washer to compensate for the lack of a chainring?
You know, the issue I had recently was with a pair of Deore cranks. It wasn't so much a problem with the bolts, but the bolt sleeve. It stuck out past the chainring, so even if you tightened the bolt all the way to the lip of the sleeve, you end up with a loose chainring...Spectre said:What's the best way of converting a triple chainring crankset to a single chainring? Can I use a washer to compensate for the lack of a chainring?
The Salsa ring must be thicker then. I might have one of those laying around so I'll try it. Just sucks to actually remember to get the spacers when your at the shop, only to get home and not have them fit. Of course, the cranks also left out the crank bolts and the v-brake I got also didn't come with any noodle hardware.DiRt DeViL said:I installed a Salsa ring to my Deore cranks and the regular bolts fitted properly. The Salsa ring is more expensive than washers or bolts but works great.