Is this rear derailleur bent?

[stevie_b]

Hi,
I've recently bought an unused rear derailleur from ebay (Shimano M430 Alivio). When I received it, I noticed the 2 pulley wheels aren't parallel with each other. It seems odd to me, is this right? Also, the bottom of the cage splays out, but it might be supposed to be like this to allow the chain to run out from the largest sprocket to the largest chainring. Photos attached.

 

[Smurfy]

Cage looks twisted to me.

 

[TissoT]

As above ... Though its hard to tell ,,

 

[fossyant]

Bent as a nine bob note.

 

[MikeW-71]

Yep, looks twisted.

 

[stevie_b]

I see what you mean. Am I right in thinking the pulley wheels should be parallel to each other?

 

[MikeW-71]

Yes they should. Parallel and in line with each other.

 

[fossyant]

Top jockey is correct but the bottom is right out.

You could straighten it if you don't want to send back.

 

[shadow master]

Yep,that's a banana, very hard to recover when like this!

 

[Smurfy]

If you want to have a go at straightening, I suggest remove both jockey wheels, then gently try to correct the twist on each half of the cage separately. Use a flat surface to judge when the job is done.

 

[shadow master]

The cage is bent like a banana,the bottom jockey wheel is twisted inwards,and the cage has been forced open at the bottom jockey wheel end,that's been in the back wheel at some point

 

[stevie_b]

Thanks guys. I don't think this is worth saving. I don't fancy my chances of getting it properly straight.

 

[shadow master]

Thanks guys. I don't think this is worth saving. I don't fancy my chances of getting it properly straight.

I agree looks like an alivio...probably get one for £20 new

 

[ayceejay]

Compare this picture with yours

 

[stevie_b]

Thanks for the picture ayceejay: it confirms that mine is goosed!