Chain problem

[mikeymustard]

Why? He doesn't need a whole new chain. That just seems frivolously wasteful to me.

Saves cleaning it?
And buying a chain tool (though useful for other chain-related jobs)

 

[smutchin]

Saves cleaning it?
And buying a chain tool (though useful for other chain-related jobs)

You'd need a chain tool to reduce the new chain to the right length.

Likely to be required to remove the old chain as well, assuming it’s the original chain that came with the bike.

 

[stalagmike]

Even though you say you are not 'technically minded', I would have a go at mending it yourself if you can. It's not a very difficult job and you'll be surprised at the sense of achievement you'll feel if you get it working smoothly again all by yourself. What have you got to lose by having a go?

 

[Wixsteman]

Thanks for all you help, I popped into Halfords when the kids were at swimming lessons and got a quick link from there my son says he’s got a chain tool (if he can find it). I’m going to order the chain tool that @smutchin linked and another quick link as a spare. If I can fix It i will be pretty chuffed if not il get a new chain. This is my first bike in about 30 years and my grampa used to fix my old bikes .

 

[Wixsteman]

Back to Halfords tomorrow, I asked for an eight speed Claris quick link my sons just pointed out it’s a 11 speed one the mechanic gave me. I take it I won’t be able to use that one?

 

[mikeymustard]

Ah, good old Halfords

 

[Wixsteman]

To be fair he tried to show me how to change the link and took time to explain the process. I’ve had a bit of luck when they made mistakes with their price tags saved £3 on my cleats onSunday and £15 on sealskinz gloves

 

[mikeymustard]

They're not as bad as some might think, I'd choose Halfords over Evans any day - you could walk into our Evans and it's as if you're invisible!

 

[Wixsteman]

My first time in Evans was Monday morning and that was my experience too had a look round and left

 

[Wixsteman]

Chain fixed eventually (fingers crossed) took me about 2 hours . Thanks to all for help, advice and encouragement to give it a go. I’ve learned two things...that I can do things if I try and clean the bloomin chain before I start

 

[MiK1138]

no no dont clean the chain before you start, wear that gunk under your nails like a badge of honour

 

[DaveReading]

Make sure you get the right replacement link to match your chain (which depends on the number of gears on the rear wheel - 8/9/10/11).

And, in the case of KMC 8-speed links, the width of the chain (can be either 7.1mm or 7.3mm, as I found out the hard way).

 

[Wixsteman]

And, in the case of KMC 8-speed links, the width of the chain (can be either 7.1mm or 7.3mm, as I found out the hard way).

Hi I’m going to order some from wiggle how can I tell what ones I need and what is the difference?

 

[smutchin]

And, in the case of KMC 8-speed links, the width of the chain (can be either 7.1mm or 7.3mm, as I found out the hard way).

Yes, good point. I would assume the OP has a Shimano HG chain, so should choose the 7.3mm link. 7.1mm for SRAM and Shimano IG chains.

 

[smutchin]

Hi I’m going to order some from wiggle how can I tell what ones I need and what is the difference?

I reckon it's a safe bet that you'll need 7.3mm, but best check to be on the safe side... have a close look at your chain, see if you can see any markings on the side of the outer plates - should be easier now you've cleaned it!