A skippy chain on your SRAM T-Type Eagle drivetrain can be an incredibly frustrating experience, especially when you’re mid-ride. If you’ve been noticing inconsistent shifting, missed gear changes, or poor power transfer, it’s time to address the issue. The SRAM T-Type Eagle chain [paid link] is designed to offer smooth, reliable performance, but when it begins to skip, it can hinder your riding experience. Fortunately, with some technical insights and a few adjustments, you can quickly restore its functionality and prevent further issues.

What Causes a Skipping Chain?

There are several reasons why your SRAM T-Type Eagle chain [paid link] may feel “skippy,” or skip over gears while pedaling. These can range from wear and tear to improper installation or maintenance. Identifying the root cause is crucial to restoring the smooth performance you expect from your drivetrain.

1. Worn Chain or Cassette Teeth

• Over time, the teeth of your cassette and chainrings can become worn, causing the chain to slip or skip under load. This is one of the most common reasons for chain skipping, especially if you’ve been riding frequently or pushing hard on steep climbs.

2. Incorrect Chain Length

• If the chain is too long or too short for your bike’s gearing setup, it can lead to poor shifting performance. A chain that is too long may not properly engage with the cassette or chainring teeth, while a chain that is too short could result in skipping when shifting to larger cogs.

3. Poorly Lubricated Chain

• A dry, rusty, or improperly lubricated chain can cause the drivetrain to perform poorly, leading to skips. The SRAM T-Type Eagle chain [paid link] relies on smooth, friction-free contact between its links and the cassette for precise shifting. Without proper lubrication, friction increases, and the chain can slip.

4. Dirty or Clogged Drivetrain Components

• Dirt, debris, and grit can accumulate in your drivetrain, including the chain, cassette, and derailleur, causing skipping. These contaminants can prevent smooth movement and cause misalignments or poor engagement between the chain and gears.

5. Misaligned Derailleur or Hanger

• A bent or misaligned derailleur hanger can affect the movement of the chain across the cassette. This misalignment can cause skipping, particularly under load when shifting to larger or smaller gears.

How to Fix a Skipping SRAM T-Type Eagle Chain

Once you’ve identified the potential cause(s) of your skippy chain, you can take the necessary steps to fix it. Below are some of the most effective ways to immediately improve your chain’s performance and prevent further skipping.

1. Check for Worn Chain and Cassette Teeth

• Inspect your cassette and chainrings for wear. A visual inspection will help you determine if the teeth are worn or rounded off. You can also measure chain stretch using a chain checker tool. If the chain has stretched beyond 0.5% to 0.75%, it may be time for a replacement. Worn-out teeth on the cassette or chainrings should also be replaced, as they will continue to cause skipping even with a new chain.
• Replace the chain if necessary. The SRAM T-Type Eagle chain is designed for durability, but like any drivetrain component, it has a lifespan. If you notice significant wear on the teeth or if the chain has stretched too much, replace the chain before it causes damage to the cassette or chainrings.

2. Ensure the Correct Chain Length

• Measure your chain’s length. To get the right length for your SRAM T-Type Eagle chain, shift the bike to the largest chainring and the largest cog, then check if the rear derailleur can handle the chain’s length. If the derailleur is overstretched, you may need to remove some links from the chain.
• Use the correct chain-length method. To get an accurate chain length, shift into the largest cog and chainring, then determine where the ends of the chain meet. Use a chain tool to remove or add links as needed. The proper length ensures optimal performance and prevents skipping.

3. Lubricate the Chain Properly

• Apply the right lubricant. Use a high-quality lubricant that is specifically designed for mountain biking or road biking. The SRAM T-Type Eagle chain is designed for durability and smooth operation, but it requires proper lubrication to function optimally. Apply the lubricant evenly across the chain’s rollers and links, wiping off any excess to prevent dirt buildup.
• Clean the chain before lubrication. Use a degreaser to clean the chain thoroughly before applying lubricant. A dirty chain can lead to poor lubrication and skipping. Ensure the chain is completely dry before applying fresh lubricant.

4. Clean the Drivetrain

• Remove dirt and grime. Clean the cassette, chainrings, derailleur, and chain thoroughly. Use a brush and degreaser to remove any built-up dirt or debris that may be causing the skipping. If necessary, use a chain cleaning tool to speed up the process.
• Use a lubricant to protect from future buildup. After cleaning the drivetrain, apply a protective lubricant to the cassette and chainrings to help prevent future buildup of dirt and grime. This will keep your shifting smooth and prevent skips from occurring.

5. Align the Derailleur Hanger

• Check derailleur alignment. A bent derailleur hanger is a common cause of poor shifting and chain skipping. Use a derailleur hanger alignment tool to ensure the hanger is straight and properly aligned. If the hanger is bent, carefully straighten it or replace it if necessary.
• Adjust derailleur settings. Ensure your derailleur is properly indexed to the cassette. Use the barrel adjuster to fine-tune the shifting if necessary. Proper derailleur alignment and setup will ensure smoother transitions and eliminate skipping.

Preventing Skipping in the Future

To keep your SRAM T-Type Eagle chain running smoothly and prevent skips in the future, it’s essential to establish a regular maintenance routine. Follow these tips to maintain optimal performance:

• Inspect your drivetrain regularly. Check for wear and tear on your chain, cassette, and chainrings after every few rides. Look for signs of dirt buildup or any damaged components.
• Lubricate and clean your chain after every ride. Make it a habit to clean your chain after each ride, especially if you’ve been riding in muddy or wet conditions.
• Replace worn-out components on time. Chain and cassette wear out over time. Replace them when necessary to avoid putting additional stress on other drivetrain parts.
• Perform regular derailleur checks. Keep your derailleur hanger aligned and ensure the derailleur is correctly set up to avoid poor shifting performance.

By following these tips and addressing potential issues early, you can prevent your SRAM T-Type Eagle chain from skipping and ensure a smooth, enjoyable ride for the long haul.