Chains? - replace or adjust?

[mrbluesbox]

Ello

i was giving my bike a quick once over this weekend when i noticed that my chain is really really loose and is going to need tightening.
I got 3 options to get it sorted:

1) Its one of the chains with a split pin on, so i guess i could buy a chain splitter and knock out a few links to get the tension right
2) buy a new chain
3) take it to the garage to get the wheel moved back (i aint got a socket / spanner big enough to do it myself - but id feel a bit wary doing this in case i didnt get it tight enough again and my wheel fell off )

The chain doesnt look in that bad condition (rust wise - i dont have the tools to check if the links have stratched) and would probably be ok after a clean.
Obviously 1 is gonna be the cheapest but will this cause me problems later?

Thanks

Gaz.
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[Blau Zedong]

If you don't know what you are doing take it to someone who does. The only time you take links out is if a new chain is too long. It is NOT a method of adjustment!
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[FreshAL]

Don't take links out of a used chain!

What bike?
How much adjustment have you got left to move the rear axle backwards?
Grab hold of the chain, and pull it away from the rear sprocket. If it'll pull quite a way (i.e. you can see a tooth) it's time for new C&S
It's worth investing in a socket and torque wrench to adjust the chain tension properly.

Edit: Post in your local area forum, there might be a kind BCFer near you who can show you what to do.

When I got my bike I had no idea how to adjust a chain until G off the forum showed me.

[Walloper]

You need to check for excess sideplate wear and pin bush wear.

You need to know the Specific 'Pitch Extension'.

This is the maximum length of 5 or 6 link assemblies when stretched.

Do not remove any links.

This will not solve your problem.

The adjuster will only accomodate a worn chain.
If the adjuster is out to the stop then the chain is beyond service limit.

You will then be liable to sudden chain failure> locking of the back wheel> being fired through a bus/truck/hedgerow.

Check front and rear sprocket for wear too, if you plan to replace the chain.

The chain is a major part of the Bike's Transmission.
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[mrbluesbox]

Thanks for the quick replies
My bike is a derby GPR 125 Nude.
There looks like theres a bit of room left to move the wheel back, but the chains is really quite loose - good few cms of vertical play in it, so im thinking that it might be better to get a new chain fitted rather than just re-tensioning it - rather not take any chances
Think ill try and get it in the garage today to get one sorted.

Cheers

Gaz.
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I seem to have misplaced my pants...................

[G]

Get it adjusted.

Did your bike not come with a tool kit?

Adjusting the chain is part of regular maintenance.
Have you been regularly keeping the chain lubed?

Remember, there should be some play in the chain; it should not be tight.

I have completed a session of race practice at Snetterton with a bolt missing from the end of my wheel spindle on my SV650 race bike without any problems (didn't realise until after the session) - so I wouldn't worry too much - you'll be able to do it up tight enough, anyway.

[feef]

there's no WAY your chain has stretched so much that you can take 2 links out and join it up again.

if it HAS stretched that much, then replace it, as it will just accelerate sprocket wear.

In fact, it'd be safer to take it to a shop. Give it to them, point at the chain and say "fix it", cos if you think you can take links out a chain to re-tension it, then you obviously haven't got a clue.



a
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[0ddball]

Although some bikes are different. In general, for smaller bikes, there should be about 30-40mm of freeplay on the bottom run of the chain half way between the front and back sprocket.

It really is worth getting some tools and someone to show you how to do basic jobs on the bike (change brake pads, adjust chain, oil and filter change ect)

[irving]

[Finglonga]

You NEED to learn how to do basic maintanence on your bike. You should be checking the chain every week at least and adjusting it if needed.

Have you checked your tyre pressures, tread, oil levels...etc? If not i would get the whole bike checked over and ask a dealer to show you how to do daily/weekly checks. Worth getting a few basic tools so you can work on your bike when it needs it.
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Andy Sez....
F.Y.Y.F.F.

[mrbluesbox]

In the process of doing it all - tyres, oil & water etc have all been checked, but only passed my CBT about a month ago and had the bike for about 3 weeks so just aint had the cash to get all my tools n things sorted.
Im intending to do my minor stuff, but still working my way through a generic haynes motorbike maintenance manual - they dont make one for my bike so thats making things a little more difficult - but hey - that what forums are for
Already changed the clutch cable (almost snapped so was lucky i spotted it) and had the exhaust off it this weekend (needed a bit o paint as it was a bit rusty) and was giving it a general once over before winter yesterday which was when i noticed the chain.
Ill get there eventually
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I seem to have misplaced my pants...................

[Walloper]

Buy some decent boots for when you need to shove the monster home.
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