To o-ring or not o-ring, chain

[dropitlow88]

So my chain has some slack spots in it, Rear sprocket is toast, it must have been that way long before i got it... anyway, what are the advantages and disadvantages of an o-ring chain? Non o-ring chain? I'm assuming the non o-ring will require more upkeep but i hear they work better when warmed up. Input guys?

[mister]

O ring chain: O ring keeps lube on the Inside of the chain between the outside plate and inside rollers. This not only keeps the chain lubed well but also keeps dirt out. Dirt, which, overtime would help grind away at the chain  and essentially shorten the life of the chain. Longer life.

Non O ring: Nothing to stop sand and other abrasive material getting to the inner parts of the chain and wearing them out. Shorter life.

Conclusion = get o ring chain.  That doesn't mean no lube though. You still need to apply lube so the chain can slide onto the sprockets easier.

If your rear sprocket is toast your front would probably be as well. Best to change all three parts at the same time - chain, front sprocket and rear sprocket.

Michael

[Twisted]

An X ring will do fine as well

[dropitlow88]

An X ring will do fine as well

what is the difference?

[Twisted]

A good quality x ring chain is supposed to be better than the current o ring chains as they have two sealing surfaces to keep the lubricant in the rollers while the 'O' ring only has one sealing surface. The 'X' ring is also supposed to have somewhat less resistance as the chain goes around the sprockets.

[dropitlow88]

A good quality x ring chain is supposed to be better than the current o ring chains as they have two sealing surfaces to keep the lubricant in the rollers while the 'O' ring only has one sealing surface. The 'X' ring is also supposed to have somewhat less resistance as the chain goes around the sprockets.

good to know. I'll add that to my knowledge library.

[The Buddha]

You guys forgot to confuse him further with a Q ring ...
X ring and Q ring are gasoline resistant. O ring isn't.
Cool.
Buddha.

[Paulcet]

Only disadvantage to an o-ring chain that I know of, is that it requires some more energy to roll around due to the friction of the o-ring sliding on the plates.  With no o-ring, the plates slide a little better, until they get grime in between them.  X-ring is supposed to be the compromise with the sealing capability of the o-ring and the efficiency of a non-o-ring chain.

[slipperymongoose]

I replaced my chain with an X ring and happy thus far I mean there isnt really much to report it, the upkeep and maintence is the same so yeah.