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I guess the good news is I don't have to clean that chain

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I guess the good news is I don't have to clean that chain

Old 12-26-12, 04:20 PM
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I guess the good news is I don't have to clean that chain

TrojanHorse's maintenance thread got me thinking. I am mechanically enabled, just don't have the right tools for working on bikes, but I like tools, so why not buy some more. It probably won't take long to make up the cost by doing my own maintenance. So, I already have a Topeak Alien 2 tool, and I think you could tear a bike completely down and rebuilt it with that thing, it rides with me whenever the bike goes out. The first maintenance issue that needed to be addressed was the incredibly filthy chains on my bikes, so I got some Chain-L lube, and a Park CC2 chain check tool. The chain on the bike I ride the most is shot, 1.0% on the chain check, so at least I have one chain less to clean. Hopefully I caught it soon enough, but only the last 250 miles on that chain are mine. If I didn't, it is just a 7 speed freewheel, and when I replaced the rear derailer, I did get one that is 9 speed compatable.
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Old 12-26-12, 05:22 PM
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sounds like some more 9spd goodies are on the way.

true you can build a entire bike w/ just a multi tool but here are my must haves in my bike tool box.

If there are few tools you NEED would be quick access allen tools such as these and there isn't any flex when you need some leverage.
https://www.bikebling.com/Park-Tool-A...1-3way-hex.htm
https://www.bikebling.com/Park-Tool-A...3-3way-hex.htm

cleaning kit of similar
https://www.bikebling.com/Park-Tool-C...-chaingang.htm

cable cutters are #1 to get of special tools, it will not frey those ends. Soldering iron is good clean up for those cable ends too.
https://www.bikebling.com/Park-Tool-C...blecutters.htm

# 2 and #3 go hand in hand, I like this attachment for my 1/2 ratchet wrench
https://www.pricepoint.com/detail/146...-Guide-Pin.htm
https://www.pricepoint.com/detail/145...et-Remover.htm

If you have outboard bearing bottom bracket this is key
https://www.pricepoint.com/detail/145...acket-Tool.htm

Also a chain breaker if your multi tool doesn't have one (I like to carry those to that so I don't have to scooter it back to the car)

Headset tool you can build w/ a long bolt and 2.x4 wood blocks.
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Old 12-26-12, 06:39 PM
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Often, the chain checking tools indicate the chain to be more worn than it really is.
At least check it against a new chain so you have a baseline.
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Old 12-26-12, 07:31 PM
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Aw, I love a quiet drive train! Congrats on your new motivation - I always figure it's better to buy a nice tool the first time you need it and the savings just add up. They add up! Exponentially! That's what I tell my wife anyway.
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Old 01-06-13, 04:49 PM
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Originally Posted by Bill Kapaun
Often, the chain checking tools indicate the chain to be more worn than it really is.
At least check it against a new chain so you have a baseline.
The new chain checks in at somewhere between 5 and 10 percent, so I trust the checker.
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Old 01-06-13, 05:06 PM
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So, 3 sets of front bearings cleaned and repacked, 2 chains lubed, air pressure changed from 60 to 70 psi, seat raised 2 inches, and suddenly its like a new bike. I can not believe how much better it rides. I knew the chain I swapped to was dry, but I didn't realize how bad it was. After a round of chain L lube, it is silent and shifts great. I'm guessing none of the bearings have ever been touched before, judging by the condition of the grease I removed. Now, its on to rear bearings, and bottom brackets.
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