 Tools:
Chain
Tool
Parts: Spare Rejoining Pins (Shimano
Hyperglide Chains)
Time: 5-10 minutes
As a general rule, a chain needs replacing when 12
links measure 121/8
inches. Any longer and it will
start to wear the sprockets and chainrings as well
which will eventually mean replacing all of them.
There are tools available such as the Park
Chain Wear Checker, which allow you to check
your chain for wear, but this can also be done
using a foot long ruler or tape measure.
Using
the chain tool, remove the chain. Ha! Done.
Seriously though, it is pretty obvious how to use a
chain tool when you see one, just make sure you
don't push the pin all the way out. It only needs to
go out far enough so you can prise the chain apart
and trying to get a lose pin back into the plates
will consume most of your day. Also when the chain
is undone, the rear mech is going to want to snap
back so be careful and remember the routing of the
chain through the derailleur.
When replacing the chain on the bike, ensure the
protruding pin is facing you or it'll be tricky
trying to use the chain tool. Once you've driven the
pin back into the chain, check to see it isn't
protruding more on one side of the link than the
other and adjust as necessary. You may find that the
chain is a bit stiff at the link which you just
rejoined, in which case you simply need to flex the
chain from side to side to loosen it up.
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Master/Power Link Chains
Some
chains such as SRAM chains contain a special link,
which can be undone by hand with no need for tools
whatsoever. Personally, I prefer these chains and
have found that they work just as well with Shimano
Hyperglide components. So if you are looking to
replace your chain it's well worth considering
replacing it with one of these.
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