Re: [CR] Replacement Chains

(Example: Component Manufacturers:Ideale)

From: "David Snyder" <dddd@pacbell.net>
To: <classicrendezvous@bikelist.org>
References: <SNT107-W48A853C5B1B7D23934E823B0210@phx.gbl>
In-Reply-To:
Date: Sun, 28 Mar 2010 18:44:18 -0700
Subject: Re: [CR] Replacement Chains


After reading some of the replies to this post, I thought I'd add the following:

1) Re-using most modern chain's pushed-out pins is only ok if you're willing to accept a 60-80% reduction of the pin's riveting strength (they break almost immediately on mountain bikes). SunRace narrow chains don't use special pins or links, so I assume they're peened very differently and/or different material or fit (large crescents or rings of metal fall off the head of popular modern chain's pins when they're pushed out).

2) I use a very diluted chain lube that works for a couple of hundred miles on a Shimano chain, but starts squeeking inside of 20 miles when used on SRAM PC40 and PC58 chains. Do the math. I think it's a metallurgy issue, but most all modern chains do seem to wear very well with scant lubrication, owing to more extensive off-road testing/research for the MTB market.

3) Shimano, KMC, Sunrace and newest SRAM chains have bulged outer plates which improve shifting, and can make a quite large difference on older chainrings, allowing "tighter" adjustment of hi-limit screw and thus allowing subsequent trim-free rear shifting up to the "big-big" sprocket combination with no rubbing on many/most older bikes. Highly recommended. A well-tuned, older bike may immediately require readjustments any time a different chain is installed.

4) SRAM links only work on Shimano 9-(and perhaps 10) speed chains. SRAM-8 links won't fit a Shimano 8-speed chain, but KMC's and TaYa's do (and are re-usable if you reshape it to restore tension in the outer plate).

5) 9-speed chains are THE hot ticket for Suntour's freewheels, especially Ultra-6 and 7-speed versions. They also work great on ANY Shimano Uniglide freewheel/cassette. They tend to allow too much "slippage" during shifting if used on French or Italian standard-spaced freewheels.

6) I've never come across a defective Shimano, SRAM or Campag chain, but a friend bought a $10 chain at Wallmart with seemingly all 114 links on the tight side.

David Snyder Auburn, CA usa

Jeff Holt wrote:
>
> My NOS of sedis chains has dwindled down to one.
> I searched the archives and it appears that the last discussion on which
> modern chains seem to work best on 5/6/7 speed freewheels dates from 2001.
> I'm presently using a variety of 5/6/7 speed Regina & Suntour freewheels
> on my bikes.
> My LBS suggested that a Shimano 6/7/8 hyperglide chain would work.
> My limited prior experience with Shimano's connector pin system left me
> less the thrilled.
> My second concern is that if I were to install a Shimano chain on my all
> Campy Cinelli, the bike my spontaneously burst into flames...& I'm not
> sure my homeowner's coverage would pay for the damage. (I believe my
> policy excludes coverage for willful stupid acts on my part.)
> Any suggestions for a currently in production chain, preferably one that
> uses the old push the rivet out/in with your Rivoli chain tool method of
> assembly.