How to Install, Adjust, and Maintain the PG-1210 Cassette

Posted on
in Cassette, Eagle, SRAM

The SRAM PG-1210 [paid link] cassette is a key component of the SRAM Eagle drivetrain, designed specifically for mountain and trail riding. While it offers reliable performance, proper installation and maintenance are crucial to ensure smooth shifting and longevity. This guide will walk you through the correct installation, adjustment, and maintenance of your PG-1210 [paid link] cassette.

Tools Required [paid links]

To install and maintain the PG-1210 [paid link] cassette, you will need:

Step-by-Step Installation of the PG-1210 Cassette

1. Preparing the Freehub

Before installing the cassette, ensure the freehub body is clean and lightly greased. Follow these steps:

  • Remove any old cassette using the chain whip and lockring tool [paid link].
  • Clean the freehub body with a degreaser and a rag.
  • Apply a thin layer of grease to prevent corrosion and ease future removal.

2. Aligning the Cassette

The PG-1210 cassette has individual cogs and spacers that fit onto a standard HG freehub. Ensure correct alignment:

  • Identify the smallest cog and align it with the notches on the freehub body.
  • Stack the remaining cogs in the correct order, ensuring spacers are placed correctly.
  • The largest cog (50T) should be installed last, locking the entire stack into place.

3. Tightening the Lockring

Once the cassette is properly aligned:

Adjusting the PG-1210 Cassette for Smooth Shifting

1. Setting the Derailleur Hanger Alignment

A misaligned derailleur hanger can cause shifting problems. Check for proper alignment using a derailleur hanger alignment tool.

2. Adjusting the Limit Screws

  • H-Limit Screw: Ensures the chain does not shift past the smallest cog.
  • L-Limit Screw: Prevents the chain from overshooting the largest cog.

To adjust:

  • Shift to the smallest cog and fine-tune the H-limit screw until the jockey wheel aligns directly with the cog.
  • Shift to the largest cog and adjust the L-limit screw similarly.

3. Fine-Tuning B-Tension for Precise Shifting

The B-tension screw controls the distance between the cassette and the derailleur’s jockey wheel.

  • Place the chain on the largest cog.
  • Adjust the B-tension screw until there is 12-16mm of clearance between the jockey wheel and the largest cog.

4. Indexing the Gears

If the derailleur struggles to shift smoothly:

  • Shift into the smallest cog.
  • Turn the barrel adjuster counterclockwise in small increments to fine-tune cable tension.

Routine Maintenance for a Long-Lasting PG-1210 Cassette

1. Cleaning the Cassette

Dirt and grime can affect performance. Clean the cassette regularly:

  • Remove the rear wheel and use a cassette cleaning brush to remove debris.
  • Apply a degreaser, let it sit for a few minutes, then scrub with a brush.
  • Rinse with water and let it dry before reinstallation.

2. Checking for Wear

A worn cassette can cause skipping gears and poor shifting. Signs of wear include:

  • Hooked or shark-toothed cogs.
  • Chain skipping under load.
  • Poor shifting despite proper derailleur adjustments.

To check cassette wear, use a chain wear indicator tool. If the chain is beyond 0.75% wear, replacing it early can prevent cassette damage.

3. Lubrication Tips

While the cassette itself does not require lubrication, keeping the chain properly lubricated will extend cassette life.

  • Apply chain lube sparingly and wipe off excess to prevent dirt buildup.

Troubleshooting Common PG-1210 Cassette Issues

1. Noisy Shifting

  • Ensure the derailleur hanger is aligned.
  • Check for proper B-tension adjustment.
  • Ensure the chain and cassette are clean and well-lubricated.

2. Chain Skipping Under Load

  • Inspect for worn cassette cogs.
  • Check if the chain is stretched beyond 0.75%.
  • Ensure proper limit screw adjustment.

3. Difficulty Shifting into the Largest Cog

  • Loosen the L-limit screw slightly.
  • Check cable tension and increase it if necessary.