Jed19

I am changing the chainrings on my bike from the 22-32-42 that is on it, to a Sugino XD300 26-36-46 I just ordered. I have two Sram PC-58 chains that I rotate every 400 miles or so. They are still relatively new, but I wonder whether I can add the links I removed to size for my new 26-36-46 chainring and still ride safely. I am kinda worried about that adage that "a chain is only as strong as its weakest link".

I would hate to just toss chains that are really still new, but I also do not want to have my chain come apart while pedaling up a hill either.

Please let me know what you suggest is the safest way forward.

Thanks.

Regards,

powers2b

Safest way is to use a new chain.
But if installed properly there is no problem with adding links to chains.
I have a FG that has 3 or 4 masterlinks from changing the cog.
But I replace chains every riding season.

Enjoy

waterrockets 

I agree. Make sure the new links move freely once hooked up. If they are tight, then you're in danger of losing it there. Follow the directions here:
https://www.parktool.com/repair/readhowto.asp?id=25

New would be better, but I reuse old stuff all the time. In 15 years, I've only had one chain break, and that's because I didn't know how to install it properly (my first season).

-Mike

DieselDan

I've wouldn't worry so much with a Sram 8-speed chain as I would with a Shimano HG 8-speed chain.

roccobike

I transferred a SRAM PC-68 from one bike where it was not working well to another where it is working fine. In making this change, I had to return some of the original links I removed. I've had no problems at all with this change. I made a similar change with a Shimano chain (7-speed). There were no problems with returning links to that chain either. Both of these chains were relatively new.
Waterrockets makes a good point about being sure the links move freely. I always the link connection when I re-connect a chain, especially if it has no master link.