The SRAM PC-1170 [paid link] chain is designed to offer a balance of performance, durability, and efficiency for road cyclists. Whether you are using it in competitive races or daily commutes, maintaining this chain is crucial to ensure smooth shifting and long-lasting performance. This guide will take you through the essential steps for proper maintenance, troubleshooting, and optimizing your SRAM PC-1170 [paid link] chain for peak drivetrain performance.

Why Chain Maintenance is Crucial

A well-maintained chain ensures that your bike’s drivetrain functions efficiently, allowing for smooth shifting and reducing unnecessary wear on other components. The SRAM PC-1170 [paid link] chain, when properly cared for, extends the lifespan of your cassette, chainrings, and derailleur. Neglecting chain maintenance, on the other hand, can lead to poor shifting, chain skipping, and premature wear on your expensive drivetrain components.

Regular Cleaning and Lubrication

Cleaning your SRAM PC-1170 chain is one of the most critical maintenance tasks to prevent buildup of dirt and grime that can wear out the chain’s links. A dirty chain causes excessive friction and will degrade the performance of the entire drivetrain.

1. Clean the Chain Regularly:
   • Use a degreaser to remove built-up dirt and oil from the chain.
   • A chain cleaning tool can simplify this process, ensuring every part of the chain is cleaned thoroughly.
   • After cleaning, dry the chain completely to prevent moisture from causing rust.
2. Lubricate the Chain:
   • Apply a high-quality chain lubricant designed for road bike use. Ensure that the lubricant is applied to the inside of the chain while rotating the pedals backward.
   • Wipe off any excess lubricant to prevent dirt from sticking to the chain.
   • Depending on the riding conditions (wet or dry), adjust the lubrication frequency. Wet conditions may require more frequent applications to keep rust at bay.

Checking for Wear and Stretch

The wear and stretch of the SRAM PC-1170 chain can be monitored using a chain checker tool. A chain that has stretched too much can lead to inefficient performance and cause damage to your cassette and chainrings.

1. Using a Chain Checker Tool:
   • Insert the tool between the links of the chain and measure its elongation.
   • Replace the chain if it has stretched beyond the recommended limit (usually 0.5% to 0.75% wear).
   • Timely replacement of a worn chain is essential to avoid excessive wear on the cassette and chainrings.
2. Monitor Chain Tension:
   • Ensure that the chain is properly tensioned. Too much slack or too tight a chain can affect shifting performance and cause premature wear.
   • When the bike is in the highest gear, check for smooth engagement of the chain with the cassette. If the chain skips or feels too tight, an adjustment may be necessary.

Proper Storage of Your Chain

When storing your bike for an extended period, it’s essential to keep the SRAM PC-1170 chain in good condition to avoid rust or unnecessary wear.

1. Indoor Storage:
   • Store the bike in a dry, clean environment.
   • Keep the chain lubricated to prevent corrosion. Wipe down any excess oil to avoid attracting dirt.
2. Outdoor Storage:
   • If storing outdoors is unavoidable, use a bike cover to protect the bike from the elements. This will prevent rain and moisture from affecting the chain.

Troubleshooting Common Issues with the SRAM PC-1170 Chain

While the SRAM PC-1170 chain is durable, several issues may arise over time. Addressing these issues promptly can ensure that your bike remains in optimal condition.

1. Skipping or Slipping of the Chain:
   • Cause: A common cause of chain skipping is a worn-out chain or cassette. If the chain has been stretched too far, it may no longer mesh properly with the teeth of the cassette.
   • Solution: Measure the chain’s wear and replace it if necessary. Additionally, inspect the cassette and chainrings for wear. If they are also worn, they may need replacing to prevent further skipping.
2. Noisy Chain:
   • Cause: A noisy chain often results from improper lubrication, dirt, or excessive wear.
   • Solution: Clean and lubricate the chain regularly, ensuring the oil penetrates into the links. If the noise persists after lubrication, inspect the chain for stretch and replace it if necessary.
3. Chain Dropping or Not Engaging Properly:
   • Cause: A misaligned derailleur or excessive wear on the chain can cause this issue.
   • Solution: Inspect the derailleur hanger alignment and adjust the derailleur as needed. Check for chain stretch, and replace the chain if it is worn beyond tolerance.

Optimizing Performance for Your SRAM PC-1170 Chain

To get the most out of your SRAM PC-1170 chain, you can fine-tune its performance through several adjustments and maintenance steps.

1. Fine-Tune Your Shifting:
   • Ensure that your derailleur is properly adjusted to shift smoothly across all gears.
   • Check the B-tension screw to make sure the derailleur maintains an optimal position relative to the cassette.
2. Upgrade Chainring and Cassette Compatibility:
   • If you are aiming for a performance upgrade, pairing the SRAM PC-1170 chain with a high-end SRAM cassette and chainrings can maximize drivetrain efficiency.
   • Use a compatible setup to ensure that all components work together seamlessly.
3. Ensure Chainline is Correct:
   • The correct chainline ensures that the chain moves smoothly through the drivetrain. A poor chainline can cause unnecessary friction and wear. Ensure that the crankset and rear derailleur are aligned to reduce drag and improve shifting precision.

Conclusion

Maintaining your SRAM PC-1170 chain is essential for ensuring optimal performance and prolonging the life of your drivetrain. Regular cleaning, lubrication, and monitoring of wear are vital steps to keep the chain running smoothly. By following the maintenance guidelines outlined above, you can ensure that your SRAM PC-1170 chain continues to perform at its best, offering you reliable and efficient shifting on every ride.