Originally Posted by
Moe Zhoost
Yes, a definite possibility; however I'd think it would be obvious that the chain was not meshing with the chain ring. Perhaps the assembler forced the chain on spreading the links and the chain went downhill quickly with use. But then, why were only a few links damaged?
How badly would you have to get it wrong to do that kind of damage? The off road hammering I have given my chains when short of lube and adjustment in my time, and never have they broken that quick.