1/8 chain on 3/32 drivetrain - safe?
 

my bike has both a 3/32 cog and chainwheel. I need a new chain and a friend has a unused and in-box 1/8 wippermann chain he is willing to give me.

I know the chain would be compatible, but are there any concerns with this set-up? my chainline isnt straight - I have a sugino rd crank with a surly cog. I believe the chainline is 45mm. Does this mean I'm more likely to throw the chain or create faster wear on the drivetrain?

Or will it just be a case of extra noise (which I dont mind)?

If there's any problem with using this chain on imperfect chainline, I'll just go buy a chain instead. But if it's all good, then I'll just take the free chain...

thanks.

1/8" chain on a 3/32" drivetrain is fine. Proceed.

...even with the slightly off chainline?

u'll be fine. it just has a little more wiggle room than u'd like. nothing you can do except buy a chain urself.

I have a Sugino RD with a Surly cog, chainline is perfect, even if it were off by 3mm you'll be fine but personally I would just buy a 3/32 chain. Unless $10 will bankrupt you? :D

I'd suggest staying with a 3/32" chain for now- they're designed to accommodate a chainline that isn't straight, and they're easier to work on (especially if you have a power link or something similar). Save the gift chain for a rainy day or your next build.

Just my two cents.

It will work, well enough at least for you to bike to your LBS and buy the proper chain

My attempts with a 1/8 chain on 3/32 gear resulted in a noisy rig. I like silence I get on the 3/32 chains. Chains are cheap enough to get the right one. They are meant to be replaced fairly often after all.

yeah the 3/32" chain will just be quieter. You will be fine w/ the 1/8" chain, it just may make some nosie w/ the imperfect chainline. If you don't care about the noise, just use the 1/8" chain. It won't hurt. I used 1/8" on 3/32" cog/chainring on my first build.

From what I understand, it should be fine...

1/8" chain on a 3/32" drivetrain actually allows for a straighter chainline since it'll align itself.

if the chainline difference requires the chain to bend, wouldnt a 1/8 inch chain wear more?

if the chainline is that off then it's best to seek other solutions

I run an 1/8" chain on a 3/32" chain ring and 1/8" cog....... your fine