How to Install, Adjust, and Maintain the Shimano Ultegra FC-6700 Chainring

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in Chainring, Shimano, Ultegra

The Shimano Ultegra FC-6700 [paid link] chainring is a high-performance component designed for road cyclists who demand smooth and efficient shifting. Proper installation, adjustment, and maintenance are crucial to keeping your drivetrain in top shape.

This guide provides expert-level [paid link] instructions on setting up your FC-6700 [paid link] chainring, ensuring compatibility, troubleshooting common issues, and maintaining it for long-term use.

Tools Required

  • 5mm Allen wrench [paid link]
  • Torque wrench [paid link] (recommended)
  • Chainring nut wrench
  • Bottom bracket tool [paid link] (if installing a new crankset)
  • Clean rag and degreaser
  • Chain checker tool
  • Grease or thread locker (Loctite 242)

Installing the Shimano Ultegra FC-6700 Chainring

Proper installation ensures optimal shifting performance and drivetrain efficiency. Follow these steps to install your FC-6700 [paid link] chainring correctly.

1. Removing the Crankset (If Replacing a Chainring)

If replacing the chainring on an existing crankset, you’ll need to remove the crankset first:

  1. Shift to the smallest chainring and smallest rear cog.
  2. Use a 5mm Allen wrench [paid link] to loosen the crank bolts.
  3. If necessary, use a bottom bracket tool [paid link] to remove the left-side crank arm.
  4. Gently pull the right-side crank arm and chainring assembly from the bottom bracket.

2. Removing the Old Chainring

  1. Secure the crankset in a work stand or on a table.
  2. Use a 5mm Allen wrench [paid link] to loosen the chainring bolts.
  3. If bolts spin freely, hold the backside with a chainring nut wrench.
  4. Remove the old chainring and inspect the bolts for wear or damage.

3. Installing the New FC-6700 Chainring

  1. Align the chainring’s pin (small protrusion) behind the crank arm.
  2. Place the new chainring onto the crank spider, ensuring it faces the correct direction.
  3. Reinstall the chainring bolts, tightening them in a star pattern.
  4. Use a torque wrench [paid link] to secure the bolts to 8-10Nm.
  5. Apply a small amount of thread locker or grease to prevent loosening.

4. Reinstalling the Crankset

  1. Insert the crankset back into the bottom bracket.
  2. Reattach the left crank arm and tighten bolts to the recommended torque.
  3. Ensure proper preload and check for smooth rotation.

Adjusting the Shimano Ultegra FC-6700 Chainring

After installation, adjustments ensure smooth shifting and prevent drivetrain noise.

1. Checking Front Derailleur Alignment

  1. Ensure the front derailleur cage is parallel to the chainring.
  2. Adjust the derailleur height so that there is a 1-3mm gap between the cage and chainring teeth.
  3. Use the derailleur limit screws to prevent overshifting.

2. Fine-Tuning the Front Shifting

  1. Shift through all gears to check for smooth transitions.
  2. If shifting is slow or noisy, adjust the cable tension using the barrel adjuster.
  3. Lubricate the derailleur pivot points for smoother operation.

Maintaining Your Shimano Ultegra FC-6700 Chainring

Regular maintenance extends the life of your chainring and drivetrain.

1. Cleaning and Lubrication

  1. Wipe down the chainring with a degreaser and rag after every few rides.
  2. Apply a thin layer of chain lube to the teeth to prevent corrosion.

2. Checking for Wear and Damage

  1. Inspect the teeth for shark-tooth wear patterns.
  2. Use a chain checker tool to measure chain stretch—replace the chain if it exceeds 0.5%.
  3. Check for bent or broken teeth, which may indicate the need for replacement.

3. Bolt Tightening and Inspection

  1. Periodically check chainring bolts for looseness.
  2. Retorque the bolts to 8-10Nm as needed.
  3. Apply thread locker to prevent them from backing out over time.

Troubleshooting Common FC-6700 Chainring Issues

1. Chain Skipping or Poor Shifting

  • Cause: Worn chain or cassette.
  • Solution: Replace the chain if it measures over 0.5% wear. Consider replacing the cassette if shifting remains inconsistent.

2. Chainring Bolts Keep Loosening

  • Cause: Vibration or improper torque.
  • Solution: Apply thread locker and tighten to the recommended torque spec.

3. Front Shifting Hesitation

  • Cause: Misaligned front derailleur or cable tension issues.
  • Solution: Re-adjust the derailleur height and fine-tune cable tension.

Compatibility of the Shimano Ultegra FC-6700 Chainring

The FC-6700 chainring is designed for Shimano 10-speed road groupsets and is compatible with:

  • Shimano Ultegra 6700 cranks
  • 10-speed Shimano chains
  • Hollowtech II bottom brackets

Not Compatible With:

  • 11-speed drivetrains (without modifications)
  • Non-Shimano cranksets with different BCD (bolt circle diameter)

Conclusion

Proper installation, adjustment, and maintenance of the Shimano Ultegra FC-6700 chainring are essential for smooth shifting and longevity. Regular cleaning, bolt inspections, and drivetrain wear monitoring help maintain peak performance. If shifting issues arise, troubleshooting steps can quickly restore function.

By following this guide, you’ll keep your FC-6700 chainring performing at its best for thousands of miles.