Tightening Thru Axle

[irideti]

The anodized head of the Syntace thru axle on my new mtb looks very beat up after tighten up for few times. Is this normal or did I use the wrong tool? I used ratchet and high quality socket bit in good condition. I'm certain I did not apply more than recommended 10-15nm.

[BagelMaster]

Thru axles should be done up quite tight, especially when trying to recreate the clamping force of a good cam quick release. I doubt it's you applying to much force. Here's a video that provides some detail about why we probably don't do thru axles up tight enough: https://youtu.be/KMdsSuXGniU

I put Robert Axle Project through axles on all my bikes. If you need a replacement, I'd go there.

[thermalattorney]

Can you post a pic? Nothing sounds unusual about your approach.

[charliedid]

Originally Posted by irideti

The anodized head of the Syntace thru axle on my new mtb looks very beat up after tighten up for few times. Is this normal or did I use the wrong tool? I used ratchet and high quality socket bit in good condition. I'm certain I did not apply more than recommended 10-15nm.

Some of the OEM TA's are less than stellar in that regard. As long as you can achieve solid purchase on it it's pretty much cosmetic. Robert Axle Project as mentioned are excellent as are Wolf Tooth. DT Swiss RWS with the handle are a great design IMO

[irideti]

Does anyone know if DT RSW tab is able to clear the Syntace rear dropout with deep recess?

[charliedid]

Originally Posted by irideti

Does anyone know if DT RSW tab is able to clear the Syntace rear dropout with deep recess?

I can't say with 100% surety but since the handle is removable and able to be repositioned I don't see why not?

Anyone else?

[irideti]

The lever needs the clearance for turning/tightening before detach.

[charliedid]

Originally Posted by irideti

The lever needs the clearance for turning/tightening before detach.

It doesn't need to make a 360 turn though.

[RudAwkning]

Originally Posted by irideti

Does anyone know if DT RSW tab is able to clear the Syntace rear dropout with deep recess?

As was mentioned, the RWS handle is re-positionable. It doesn't need to clear any deep hoods on a dropout.

If you have the Syntace X-12 system, be sure to order the proper DT axle with the conical washer.

[irideti]

As far as I understand, DT RWS lever tighten/losen at 'down' position while reposition at 'up' position. Therefore the lever needs to clear my bike's 360 degree x12 style dropout. Also I think the 'step up' allen bit is the problem for the excess wear on the anodized head as the 'step up' and head touch touch each other. I guess allen key is a better tool for this application.

IMG_5726 by ipenguinking, on Flickr

Screen Shot 2021-08-02 at 9.52.16 PM by ipenguinking, on Flickr

[charliedid]

Originally Posted by irideti

As far as I understand, DT RWS lever tighten/losen at 'down' position while reposition at 'up' position. Therefore the lever needs to clear my bike's 360 degree x12 style dropout. Also I think the 'step up' allen bit is the problem for the excess wear on the anodized head as the 'step up' and head touch touch each other. I guess allen key is a better tool for this application.

IMG_5726 by ipenguinking, on Flickr

Screen Shot 2021-08-02 at 9.52.16 PM by ipenguinking, on Flickr

Ah ha!

I see what you mean now. I had it in my head that the dropout was a hooded style not full 360 in it's cover.

Give the RAP TA's a try and or just use a regular non-stepped Allen key.

[RudAwkning]

Here's my Knolly Warden with Syntace X-12 dropouts and compatible DT thru axle.

[BRad704]

Originally Posted by BagelMaster

I put Robert Axle Project through axles on all my bikes. If you need a replacement, I'd go there.

Thanks for the reminder on Robert Axle Project. I picked up a Raleigh RXS last week that has cam-style thru axles. Aaand now I just ordered Lighting TA's as replacements.

[unterhausen]

I have always wondered about the fit of some socket hex wrenches. Maybe it's undersized

[irideti]

I'm thinking about getting this X12 compatible thru axle from PMW which works just like DT Swiss RWS. The lever looks tall enough to clear the dropout, at least dropouts made by PMW.

Screen Shot 2021-08-03 at 11.52.54 AM by ipenguinking, on Flickr

https://www.paragonmachineworks.com/...se-length.html