Bicycle Mechanics - SRAM PC38 chain cracking up

Hi Folks,

An unpleasent phantom shift this morning led me to the discovery that my chain had developed splits in the sideplates, propagating from the holes into which the pins are pressed. There are 8 separate places where these cracks have formed. The chain in question is an inexpensive SRAM PC38 that has seen about 2 years use, and was just ready for replacment, judging from wear (length measurement). I had similar issues recently with a PC48 chain. Has anyone else observed this problem with lower grade SRAM chains?

I'm usually careful about gearshifts, cross-chaining etcetera. and keep chains well cleaned and lubricated, so I would venture that the damage has not been caused by abuse or negligance

Cheers,

Ed

Hm, I have run PC48's on all my singlespeed bikes and never had one break even... and thats a very high load application. Bring them back to the shop and SRAM should warranty them, they are good about that.

Thanks seely,

Unfortunately, I already binned the remains of both chains. Since they were quite worn, as well as cracked it would be difficult to make a case for warranty. However, this is something to remember in case of future problems. The bikes each have a nice new PC-68 now.

Only thing I can think is that the less expensive chains do not hold up to lateral forces i.e. from imperfect chain-line, which will always present itself on a derailleur geared bike to some small extent even if one does not cross-chain. In this regard, your nice, simple singlespeed should be kind to chains. This is pure supposition though.

Cheers & Happy new year,

Ed

I've just checked my PC49 after a good scrubbing and many of the links are cracked. The chain is less than four months old...

Cracks stemming from the holes would be due to brittle or burred metal from during the pin riveting process. It just takes a while for these to become apparent. Certainly ask on warranty, that is defective, even for a cheap level chain.