Foxman, try
http://www.parktool.com/repair_help/FAQindex.shtml for some basic info. You don't have to buy their tools to use their procedures.
You should be cleaning and lubing your chain more frequently, every 100 miles or so. Grit in the chain is what will wear it out quickly, possibly leading to premature cog wear as well. There have been a lot of recent threads on chain maintenance here.
RichC
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Training: 2002 Fuji Roubaix Pro (105 triple)
Commuting/Daytripping: 2001 Airborne Carpe Diem (Ultegra/XTR, touring wheels)
Commuting/Touring: 2000 Novara Randonee (Sora/Tiagra/LX, fenders, lights)