Double to Triple - HELP!

ElPerro said:

I have a 2003 Lemond Buenos Aires with an Ultegra double crank, Shimano 105 front derailer and nine speed free wheel. I've purchased an Ultegra triple crank (the correct one) and would like to replace the double. I've taken this to a couple of LBS's to have the work done and have been misled each time. The shifters DO NOT have to be replaced, the Ultegra shifters on the bike work with either double or triple; there is absolutely no question about that. Period. Now, before I try another shop, does anybody know if the bottom bracket and front derailer will also need to be replaced? So far, I'm not real impressed with the knowlege of these guys and I want to give them everything they need to do the job. Failing all else, I guess I can buy whatever tools I need and just do it myself. I can't believe that this is such a complicated issue!

Look at the bright side. You now know who not to take the bike to for reliabe advice & service.😉

I believe that you should need the 118.5mm spindled BB for the triple versus the 109.5 for the double. See:

bike.shimano.comFC 6500&6503 SI.pdfOpen ↗

Not sure if it is practical or economical possibility to just replace the spindle. Someone else cen problably answer that.

Should also get FD (e.g. 6503 or 5504) for reliable smooth shifting to the pony (and back).

Have you checked to see if you have sufficient chain wrap on the short cage RD for whatever cassette/chain ring combo range you are going?

ElPerro said:

I have a 2003 Lemond Buenos Aires with an Ultegra double crank, Shimano 105 front derailer and nine speed free wheel. I've purchased an Ultegra triple crank (the correct one) and would like to replace the double. I've taken this to a couple of LBS's to have the work done and have been misled each time. The shifters DO NOT have to be replaced, the Ultegra shifters on the bike work with either double or triple; there is absolutely no question about that. Period. Now, before I try another shop, does anybody know if the bottom bracket and front derailer will also need to be replaced? So far, I'm not real impressed with the knowlege of these guys and I want to give them everything they need to do the job. Failing all else, I guess I can buy whatever tools I need and just do it myself. I can't believe that this is such a complicated issue!

Ya need a 118.5 BB and a triple FD.You can get by with the RD if you consider the granny a bailout and avoid the smaller cogs when using it. Look harder for a shop where the monkeys know their azzes from a hole in the ground, or a rotten banana..LOL..This one is so simple it's a no brainer. BTW, it's a casette.