Bicycle Mechanics - what is the name of the drop out screw tensioner thing??

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bluenote157
08-04-09, 09:57 AM
and what is the proper alignment/adjustment of this thing? It seems pointless as my rear derailleur takes up the slack of the chain anyway. However, I could be missing something and maybe it does serve a purpose??

Here is a pic of one. *pic stolen from soradicals flickr cuz i think his bike is hot*
http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3364/3511163309_182e8ccc04.jpg

Retro Grouch
08-04-09, 10:06 AM
They're called "dropout screws".

Their function is to speed wheel changes by providing a solid stop for the axle on both sides. That way (once they're set) you don't have to visually align the front of the tire with the frame.
bleukahuna
08-04-09, 10:08 AM
It's called a dropout adjuster. It merely helps to locate the rear wheel squarely. It seems like there is always an active thread asking about them.

bluenote157
08-04-09, 10:11 AM
cool thanks. Hmm.. i guess frames were not as straight as they are now seeing as my two newer bikes have vertical drops with no room to shift it up-down (or side-to-side in this case)??
Panthers007
08-04-09, 10:18 AM
Niagara has them:

http://www.niagaracycle.com/product_info.php?products_id=407258

I bought a set to replace a bent one on my PUCH.
cbchess
08-04-09, 12:21 PM
They also help with Single speed set ups and chain tension.
cranky old road
08-04-09, 01:30 PM
cool thanks. Hmm.. i guess frames were not as straight as they are now seeing as my two newer bikes have vertical drops with no room to shift it up-down (or side-to-side in this case)??

The frames were straight, but with horizontal dropouts one can adjust the wheelbase of the bike for different rides.