Bent Chain Adjuster

[flyingbeagle71]

I'm in the process of replacing my tires, no problem removing them.  When I took the back axle out and starting cleaning the parts I noticed a potential problem with the chain adjuster assembly on the left side.

Here is a picture of the left side chain adjuster assembly...



Here is a picture of the right side adjuster...



Should I replace the left one, both of them, neither of them???  Replace the adjuster plate too?  Both plates?  Parts come to less the $30 on mrcycles.com but I'd really like to start riding, it's been a long winter!!!   

[Alphamazing]

I've got a set if you want to just replace them. I'll let you decide based on what other people say, first, if you want.

[Caffeine]

Bend the other one so they match.   

I'd replace 'em.   

[Turd Ferguson]

Wow, the threads look terrible...wonder what happened.

Deffinately replace!

-Turd.

[flyingbeagle71]

I've got a set if you want to just replace them. I'll let you decide based on what other people say, first, if you want.

Thanks Alpha, I might take you up on that offer.  I'll let you know.

Bend the other one so they match.   

Umm...mayby not...

Wow, the threads look terrible...wonder what happened.

I came that way from the previous owner.  Maybe they just overtorqued them???  Could it have been caused by and accident?  There is minor left side damage on the bike...

[RVertigo]

What the...  How the hell could someone bend it like that?

Replace the bent one...  I don't think you have to worry about the other one.

[sledge]

This looks to me like a good example of what happens when someone attempts to tension the chain without slackening off the axle-bolt first. The plate distorts until it reaches its limit then the thread strips. Is the thread damaged in the second pic? it looks like a section of it is stripped just to the left of the plate.

[MarkusN]

That's what I first thought as well. However, the damage of the backing plate is not consistent with this. Since this is supported all along its edge it really has no reason to bend like that.

[flyingbeagle71]

The threads on the right side are stripped a little too.  The left one is nuked.  I'll replace both.  Could this be from and rear end accident?  Maybe the bike was bumped from behind?

[scratch]

The threads just look clean and shiney where the nut has been on the right adjuster.  If the nut threads over this area allright, then you'll only need the left one.

[sledge]

I dont think the threaded section has been hit from behind. Looking at the first pic where the bolt head is welded to the vertical piece...its bowed to the right indicating its been pulled. If it had been hit it would be pushed inwards and bowed to the left. Also look closely at the thread pitch before the stripped section, there is some stretching there. Definate case of overtightening to me. Its an easy fix for someone with the abilities and equipment. Grind the old bolts out, tack-weld new ones in, hammer the plate flat and use 2 new nuts.