So, I got some MKS Chain Tensioners for my bike but the little tab part that is supposed to slide into the drops doesn't fit.

It this because I recently had the framed powdercoated and the actual thickness of the "coat" narrowed the space between the drops?

And if so, what should I do about it?

i had the same problem. you can either a) dremel out one side or b) get the larger sized tensioners. mks makes a bigger one that fit drop outs up to 9mm. I use em. they're spiffy. they're ment for aluminum frames but I had to use them because my old steel frame had fatty dropouts.

I believe the larger ones are the Aluminum frame ones, right?

Either way, my problem is that the current ones are too big so getting bigger ones would only create a larger problem.

I assumed I could just file it down, but am I risking anything by exposing the bare frame to the elements?

Oh wait, I think i misunderstood you. never mind.

when you say tab do you mean the round part with the hole?

the aluminum ones just have larger endcaps, the rest is identical.

On one side of the "round part with the hole" there is a little square tab that attaches to the shaft and screw.
That little tab doesn't fit between my drops.




I'm not trying to put them on incorrectly, am I?
That's how I put them on my other bike.

no no, you're doing it right (or else I did the same thing as you). yea I'd just try filing away a little of the powder coating if you're close.. I dont think exposing some metal to the elements would be a big deal, but if anyone wants to correct me, go for it.

that's an interesting question. i THINK you're right, and i'm pretty sure that the axle and nuts will chew off some of the powder-coating anyway.

i've heard peeps talk about problems with rust creeping under the powdercoat, but i have a hard time believing the small area that will be exposed will create a problem.

i say go to it with the file

Personally, I'd rather file the tensioner than the frame.

me too

Maybe try prying the tensioners open a little?

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I think I like that idea too.

I was thinking about trying to pry the tabs open a little bit so that they would fit around the drops.

That's not the problem.
The little square tab on the part that the axel goes through is too big to slide into the drops because of the powdercoat.

But, now that you mention it, what you're talking about will more than likely be a problem too.
Crap.