How to Identify a Worn Out Chainring?
Chainrings are a piece of gear of vital importance in our rides. Thus, it is of high relevance to know when they are not working properly and need to be replaced. However, some symptoms may be confusing, as they can happen without entirely being caused by this.
Chain drops, shift skipping, or trouble when shifting gears may be caused by a deterioration of the chainring teeth. In order to make sure this is the cause, check if all of them are of the same size. The space between them must also be unaltered. You should also look for a little gap between the chain and ring to see if it needs to be replaced.
How to Remove Chainring Bolts
There are certain useful pro tools needed to remove chainring bolts, such as achainring nut tool, which will immobilize the bolts. Depending on your gear, you’ll need either a hex key set or a Torx key set. Be sure to loosen all bolts before completely removing the first one. In this way, you prevent the ring from sliding.
Now, if you don’t have these tools and you don’t want to buy them, don’t panic! You can replace the nut tool with a wrench or any other tool that safely secures the bolt.
Just be sure not to damage bolts, rings, or teeth when doing so. Check this video on how to do it (Credits to Robby C):
How to Remove Stripped Chainring Bolts
It may happen that, due to different factors, your bolts become stripped and seem impossible to remove. However, do not give up, as there are various methods you could use to remove them.
Firstly, you can try drilling the bolt head off. You can do this with either a reverse drill or a screw extractor. Be gentle so as not to damage the chainring. After removing it, make sure to replace the stripped bolt to avoid this same issue next time.
Secondly, you can manually try to unscrew them with a set of vice-grip pliers. You’ll also need something on the opposite side to avoid them from spinning loose. You could use some liquid wrench penetrating oil or a similar lubricant to make things smoother.
As you follow any of these steps, it is very important to remember that what you’re aiming to do is to fix something. That’s why you should always be careful not to damage any other parts. If you are unable to solve the problem on your own, make sure to refer to a professional for assistance.