Maintaining your bike is crucial for a safe and smooth riding experience. One common issue cyclists encounter is a slipped or broken bike chain. While it can seem daunting at first, putting a bike chain back on is a relatively straightforward task that can be done with the right tools and a little patience. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through the step-by-step process of putting a bike chain back on, ensuring that your bicycle is ready to hit the road again.
Before you start, gather the necessary tools: a chain tool, a pair of pliers, and a clean rag. Begin by locating the derailleur, which is the mechanism responsible for shifting gears. Position the chain on the largest cog in the rear cassette and the middle chainring in the front. Using the chain tool, carefully remove a pin from the chain. Connect the chain to the derailleur, ensuring that it’s correctly aligned with the cogs. Use the pliers to carefully push the pin back into place and secure it.
Once the chain is connected, check its tension. The chain should not be too loose or too tight. Adjust the tension by moving the rear derailleur’s position using the barrel adjuster near the handlebar. Pedal the bike while applying pressure to the chain to ensure it moves smoothly through the gears. If necessary, make further adjustments to the derailleur’s position until the chain operates optimally. Finally, clean the chain thoroughly with the rag to remove any grease or dirt, ensuring a smooth and long-lasting ride.
Locating the Issue
Identifying the Cause
Determining the reason for your bike chain slipping off the chainring or cassette is crucial. Start by checking the following:
Chain Tension
Excessive chain slack can lead to the chain jumping off the gears. Use the bike’s derailleur or tensioner to adjust the chain tension properly. A guideline is to ensure the chain has just enough slack to allow the rear derailleur cage to move without significant resistance.
Chainring and Cassette Alignment
Misaligned chainrings or cassettes can prevent the chain from engaging properly. Examine the alignment between the front chainrings and the rear cassette. They should be positioned so that the chain runs smoothly across the gears without rubbing or binding.
Chain Wear
An excessively worn chain can stretch and lose its ability to engage with the teeth on the chainrings and cassette. The chain will become more prone to slipping off as it wears. Use a chain checker tool to measure chain elongation and replace it if it exceeds the recommended wear limit.
Derailleur Adjustment
Improperly adjusted derailleurs can cause the chain to shift gears erratically or fail to engage with the desired gear. Adjust the derailleur screws according to the manufacturer’s specifications to ensure smooth and precise shifting.
Chain Guide
Some bikes feature chain guides that help prevent the chain from derailing. Make sure the chain guide is securely attached and not obstructed by any debris.
Gathering Necessary Tools
To properly put a bike chain back on, you’ll need a few essential tools:
1. Chain Tool
A chain tool is a specialized tool used to remove and connect bike chain links. It’s a small, compact device with a pin that fits into the master link and pushes the pins out. Choose a chain tool that’s compatible with your chain’s make and model.
2. Quick Link Pliers
Quick link pliers are used to install and remove quick links, which are special connectors that make it easier to install and remove chains without using a chain tool. They come in two types:
- Needle-nose pliers with a crimper: These pliers have a needle-nose for precision and a crimper that closes the quick link securely.
- Dedicated quick link pliers: These pliers are designed specifically for installing and removing quick links and provide a more ergonomic grip.
3. Rag or Paper Towels
A rag or paper towels will come in handy for cleaning the chain and wiping off any excess lubricant.
4. Lubricant
Chain lubricant is essential for maintaining a smooth and efficient chain. Choose a lubricant that’s suitable for your riding conditions and apply it sparingly after cleaning the chain.
5. Optional: Park Tool Chain Checker
A Park Tool Chain Checker is a useful tool for checking chain wear. It measures the distance between chain links and indicates when the chain needs to be replaced.
Derailing the Chain
If your chain comes off the derailleur, you’ll need to derail it and replace it. Here’s how:
- Shift the derailleur to the lowest gear. This will loosen the chain and make it easier to remove.
- Pull the derailleur cage back. Use your fingers or a pair of pliers to gently pull the derailleur cage back, away from the chain. This will create a gap that you can use to remove the chain.
- Lift the chain off the derailleur.
- Identify the derailleur jockey wheels. These are the two small wheels that guide the chain around the derailleur.
- Find the gap between the jockey wheels. This is where you’ll need to lift the chain off the derailleur.
- Lift the chain up and over the jockey wheels. Be careful not to damage the chain or the derailleur.
- Replace the chain on the derailleur. Once you’ve removed the chain, you can replace it by following these steps in reverse order.
- Shift the derailleur back to the highest gear. This will tighten the chain and ensure that it’s properly engaged with the derailleur.
Preparing the Crankset
Before you begin, you’ll need to prepare the crankset. This involves freeing up the chain from the front derailleur and aligning the chainring. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
1. Shift into the smallest chainring
Use the left-hand shifter to shift the chain into the smallest chainring at the front. This will give you more room to work with the chain.
2. Release the front derailleur cage
Locate the front derailleur cage, which is the movable part that guides the chain onto the chainrings. Push the lever or button on the derailleur to release the cage and allow it to swing outward.
3. Hook the chain over the chainring
Once the derailleur cage is released, carefully hook the chain over the smallest chainring. Make sure it’s properly seated in the teeth.
4. Align the chainring
Check that the chainring is properly aligned with the rest of the drivetrain. To do this, use a chain alignment tool or simply look for a straight line from the chainring to the rear cogs. If the chainring is misaligned, it can cause shifting problems and wear out the chain and gears prematurely.
| Chain Alignment Tool |
|---|
| A chain alignment tool is a small, inexpensive tool that can help you align your chainring properly. To use it, simply attach the tool to the frame and align the pointer with the teeth on the chainring. |
Once the chainring is aligned, you can proceed to reattach the chain to the rest of the drivetrain.
Installing the Chain on the Chainrings
With the chain looped around the smallest cog, lift it over the largest chainring. Carefully guide the chain into the teeth of the chainring, ensuring it is seated properly. Align the chainring indexing arrows or marks with the corresponding marks on the frame. Repeat this process for the remaining chainrings, starting with the middle and moving to the smallest.
5. Secure the Chain to the Derailleur
To secure the chain to the derailleur, carefully feed the chain through the derailleur guides. Ensure that the chain is properly aligned with the pulleys and tension rollers. Rotate the pedals slowly to tension the chain and check for proper alignment. Use the derailleur barrel adjuster to fine-tune the chain tension, aiming for a slight slack when the bike is in the highest gear. Refer to the table below for specific guidance on how to adjust the chain tension based on the number of cogs and chainrings:
| Number of Cogs | Number of Chainrings | Chain Tension |
|---|---|---|
| 8-10 | 2-3 | 1/4-inch to 1/2-inch slack |
| 11-12 | 2-3 | 1/8-inch to 1/4-inch slack |
| 13-15 | 2-3 | 1/16-inch to 1/8-inch slack |
Once the chain tension is adjusted, tighten the pinch bolts or quick-release levers on the derailleur to secure the chain in place.
Derailing the Chain onto the Cassette
6. Find the Cassette Cog in Alignment
Inspect the rear cassette and identify the cog that aligns with the chainring you wish to engage. Ensure the chain is taut and guide it toward the desired cog, aiming to land it gently onto the largest cog first. Adjust the rear derailleur slightly to facilitate this alignment.
Ensure the chain is taut, as slack can hinder proper engagement. Guide the chain onto the cog with precision. Avoid forceful actions, as they can damage the chain or cassette.
Once the chain is securely positioned on the cog, gently pedal forward to check its engagement. If the chain slips or disengages, re-adjust the derailleur or repeat steps 5 and 6 until the chain runs smoothly.
If you encounter difficulties derailing the chain, refer to the table below for troubleshooting tips:
| Issue | Solution |
|---|---|
| Chain falls off the cassette | Tighten the chain or adjust the derailleur to apply more tension. |
| Chain slips on the cog | Clean the cassette and chain, or replace worn components. |
| Chain does not engage properly | Inspect the chain and cassette for damage or misalignment. Replace or repair as necessary. |
Shift the Rear Derailleur to the Smallest Cog
Before you start tensioning the chain, ensure that your rear derailleur is shifted to the smallest cog. Doing this will provide the most slack in the chain, making it easier to tension.
Use a Chain Tensioning Tool (Recommended)
A chain tensioning tool is a specialized tool designed to apply the appropriate amount of tension to the chain. To use it, simply attach the tool to the chain and follow the instructions provided with the tool.
Manual Tensioning
If you don’t have a chain tensioning tool, you can tension the chain manually. To do this, follow these steps:
- Place the chain on the largest chainring and the smallest cog.
- Tighten the chain tensioner bolts until the chain is taut but not overly tight.
- Shift the derailleur through all the gears to ensure the chain is running smoothly and without any binding.
Check Chain Elongation
Over time, the chain will elongate due to wear. This elongation can affect the tension of the chain, causing it to become loose or tight. To check for chain elongation, use a chain checker tool to measure the length of a specific section of the chain. If the chain has exceeded the recommended elongation limit, it should be replaced.
Table: Recommended Chain Elongation Measurements
| Chain Type | Maximum Elongation |
|---|---|
| Standard Chain | 0.75% |
| Narrow-Wide Chain | 0.50% |
Adjusting the Derailleur Limit Screws
Step 1: Determine the correct position of the chain
Before adjusting the limit screws, ensure the chain is in the correct position. On the rear derailleur, the chain should be on the smallest cog (innermost) and the front derailleur should be on the largest chainring (outermost).
Step 2: Locate the limit screws
There are two limit screws on the rear derailleur: a high limit screw and a low limit screw. The high limit screw prevents the derailleur from moving too far towards the spokes, while the low limit screw prevents it from moving too far towards the frame.
Step 3: Adjust the high limit screw
With the chain on the smallest cog, turn the high limit screw clockwise until the chain begins to rub against the next cog. Then, turn the screw counterclockwise approximately 1/4 turn.
Step 4: Adjust the low limit screw
With the chain on the largest cog, turn the low limit screw counterclockwise until the chain begins to rub against the previous cog. Then, turn the screw clockwise approximately 1/4 turn.
Step 5: Fine-tune the limit screws
Shift the chain through all the gears and observe the position of the chain. Make minor adjustments to the limit screws as needed to ensure smooth shifting and prevent the chain from falling off.
| Limit Screw | Function |
|---|---|
| High Limit Screw | Prevents the derailleur from moving too far towards the spokes |
| Low Limit Screw | Prevents the derailleur from moving too far towards the frame |
Lubricating the Chain
Regular lubrication is essential for maintaining a smooth and efficient bike chain. Follow these steps to properly lubricate your chain:
1. Clean the Chain: Use a degreaser and a brush to remove any dirt or debris from the chain. Dry it thoroughly with a clean cloth.
2. Apply Lube to Each Link: Use a chain lube specifically designed for bikes. Apply a small drop to each link, focusing on the inner and outer plates. Avoid over-lubricating, as excess lube can attract dirt.
3. Spread the Lube: Use a clean cloth or a dedicated chain cleaning tool to spread the lube evenly throughout the chain. This helps ensure all parts are properly lubricated.
4. Wipe Away Excess: Once the lube is spread, wipe away any excess using a clean cloth. This prevents gunk from building up and causing wear or efficiency issues.
5. Ride the Bike: After lubricating the chain, ride your bike for a short distance to allow the lube to penetrate the moving parts. This will further enhance its effectiveness.
6. Relubricate Regularly: The frequency of lubrication depends on riding conditions and the type of lube used. As a general guideline, lubricate your chain every 100-200 miles or after each wash.
7. Use the Right Lube: Different types of lube are designed for specific weather conditions and riding styles. Choose a lube that is appropriate for your riding environment.
8. Avoid Overlubricating: As mentioned earlier, overlubricating can attract dirt and lead to decreased efficiency. Use a moderate amount of lube and wipe away any excess.
9. Lubrication Schedule: Here is a more detailed lubrication schedule based on riding conditions:
| Conditions | Frequency |
|---|---|
| Dry and Clean | Every 300-400 miles |
| Wet and Dirty | Every 100-150 miles |
| Extreme Conditions (e.g., rain, mud) | After every ride |
Troubleshooting Potential Issues
1. The chain is too long or too short
If the chain is too long, it will be loose and may fall off the gears. If the chain is too short, it will be tight and may cause the bike to jerk or stall.
To fix this, you will need to adjust the length of the chain. You can do this by removing or adding links to the chain.
2. The chain is not aligned properly
If the chain is not aligned properly, it may rub against the gears and cause them to wear down prematurely. It may also cause the bike to shift gears poorly.
To fix this, you will need to adjust the alignment of the chain. You can do this by loosening the chain tension and then realigning the chain on the gears.
3. The chain is dirty or rusty
A dirty or rusty chain can cause the bike to shift gears poorly and may also lead to premature wear of the gears. It is important to keep your chain clean and lubricated to prevent these problems.
To clean your chain, you can use a degreaser and a brush. To lubricate your chain, you can use a bike chain lubricant.
4. The gears are worn or damaged
Worn or damaged gears can cause the chain to slip or jump off the gears. If your gears are worn or damaged, you will need to replace them.
You can check the condition of your gears by looking for any signs of wear or damage, such as pitting, chipping, or cracks.
5. The derailleur is not adjusted properly
The derailleur is the part of the bike that moves the chain up and down the gears. If the derailleur is not adjusted properly, it may cause the chain to shift gears poorly or may even cause the chain to fall off the gears.
To adjust the derailleur, you will need to follow the instructions in your bike’s owner’s manual.
6. The shifter cable is stretched or frayed
The shifter cable is the part of the bike that connects the shifters to the derailleur. If the shifter cable is stretched or frayed, it may cause the shifter to not work properly or may even cause the cable to break.
To fix this, you will need to replace the shifter cable.
7. The rear wheel is not properly aligned
If the rear wheel is not properly aligned, it may cause the chain to rub against the frame of the bike or may even cause the chain to fall off the gears.
To fix this, you will need to adjust the alignment of the rear wheel.
8. The chain tension is too tight or too loose
If the chain tension is too tight, it may cause the bike to jerk or stall. If the chain tension is too loose, the chain may fall off the gears.
To adjust the chain tension, you will need to follow the instructions in your bike’s owner’s manual.
9. The chain is skipping
If the chain is skipping, it may be caused by one of the following problems:
- The chain is too long or too short.
- The chain is not aligned properly.
- The chain is dirty or rusty.
- The gears are worn or damaged.
- The derailleur is not adjusted properly.
- The shifter cable is stretched or frayed.
- The rear wheel is not properly aligned.
- The chain tension is too tight or too loose.
10. The chain has broken
If the chain has broken, you will need to replace it. To replace the chain, you will need to follow the instructions in your bike’s owner’s manual.
| Problem | Solution |
|---|---|
| The chain is too long or too short | Adjust the length of the chain by removing or adding links. |
| The chain is not aligned properly | Adjust the alignment of the chain by loosening the chain tension and then realigning the chain on the gears. |
| The chain is dirty or rusty | Clean the chain with a degreaser and a brush. Lubricate the chain with a bike chain lubricant. |
| The gears are worn or damaged | Replace the gears. |
| The derailleur is not adjusted properly | Adjust the derailleur according to the instructions in your bike’s owner’s manual. |
| The shifter cable is stretched or frayed | Replace the shifter cable. |
| The rear wheel is not properly aligned | Adjust the alignment of the rear wheel. |
| The chain tension is too tight or too loose | Adjust the chain tension according to the instructions in your bike’s owner’s manual. |
| The chain is skipping | Check for any of the following problems:
|
| The chain has broken | Replace the chain according to the instructions in your bike’s owner’s manual. |
How to Put a Bike Chain Back On
Putting a bike chain back on can be a daunting task, but it’s actually quite simple once you know how. Here are the steps on how to do it:
- Shift the rear derailleur to the smallest cog.
- Find the master link in the chain. This is a link with a small clip or pin that holds the two ends of the chain together.
- Open the master link by pushing the clip or pin in the direction it came out. Be careful not to lose the clip or pin!
- Drape the chain over the front chainring and rear cogs.
- Insert the open end of the chain into the master link.
- Close the master link by pushing the clip or pin back into place.
- Shift the rear derailleur to the largest cog to check the chain tension. The chain should be taught, but not too tight.
- If the chain is too loose, you can tighten it by turning the barrel adjuster on the rear derailleur clockwise.
- If the chain is too tight, you can loosen it by turning the barrel adjuster counterclockwise.
Once you’ve put the chain back on, it’s a good idea to lubricate it to help it run smoothly and prevent rust.
People Also Ask About How to Put a Bike Chain Back On
How do I know if my bike chain is too loose?
A loose bike chain will make a clunking noise when you pedal. It may also skip gears or fall off the chainrings.
How do I know if my bike chain is too tight?
A tight bike chain will be difficult to pedal. It may also cause the gears to slip.
How often should I lubricate my bike chain?
You should lubricate your bike chain every few hundred miles, or more often if you ride in wet or dirty conditions.
Can I put a bike chain back on without a master link?
Yes, you can put a bike chain back on without a master link, but it is more difficult and time-consuming. You will need to use a chain tool to remove and replace the pins that hold the chain together.
