So I picked up a Sugino 46tx130mm 1/2"x1/8" 5 bolt chainring today. I put it on, and it fit on my crank nicely, but the chain wasn't fitting into the teeth properly. I currently have a FSA vero crankset 42t. I know I have clearance up to 49. I am not sure if I got a wrong size, or if I need a different chain. I know in order to use it I will have to get a new chain because the one I have now is not long enough to fit around it. I have a 16t Dicta BMX freewheel on the back. The chain fits fine over the teeth on that and my current chainring. When I put the new one on the chain kinda just sat on top of it and wouldn't sit nicely like its supposed to.
So my questions are:

Did I get a wrong size chainring? If not what kind of chain do I need to get? Will said chain work properly on my freewheel?

Any and all help is greatly appreciated! If I can make this work with min. costs is my goal.

You got a 1/8" ring, but your current setup requires a 3/32" ring.

It'll not fit. You need a matching 3/32" ring. Or change the Dicta and chain to 1/8" instead and use the new ring with those.

Ok thanks! Ill need a new chain anyways cause the one I have isnt long enough. This is the first time I've tried changing the front. Ive dropped the teeth in back already, but I need more of a challenge. I tried looking at my specs and what I was buying. I'm still learning.

I'm putting in my order now. The chain I liked is 112 links. Do you think that will be enough? A new freewheel and chain is half the price of a new chainring.

Agreed, chainrings are rather pricy compared to the chain and cog in the back.

112 links will/should suffice, yes I run 52/20 with a 112 link chain (needed to shorten it, so 112 is more than enough).

I have Dicta as well, but just got a Sturmey Archer freewheel for another project. There's a world in difference between those two and the price isn't that bad. You should really consider that. I'm always worried that my Dicta will break under load.

Id try that one but we dont carry that brand at my work. the 112 was long but now I can use the extra to make a star ornament ^_^ people love those for christmas. The new gear feels great. I just posted on the mechanics forum. but its creaking and popping. My chain is a little tight so maybe loosening it up will help. it would pop every once in a while before. This makes me nervous though. over the winter I had to have a friend tighten my bottom bracket. It pooped and came loose and my pedals were all wonky. It was way better after he messed with it. Hes a mechanic so he knows what hes doing. I feel bad bugging him to much though cause he dont let me pay him. Ive even offered to bake cookies and or a gift card or beer. but hes just happy to keep me rolling.

New chain syndrome
Ride your bike your chain will be quiet soon

1/8" chain on 3/32" rings/cogs usually quiets down your drivetrain.