Installing the Shimano FD-4700 [paid link] front derailleur correctly is essential for smooth shifting and drivetrain performance. However, many cyclists unknowingly make installation mistakes that lead to chain rub, slow shifting, or even dropped chains.
This guide will cover the most common Shimano FD-4700 [paid link] installation mistakes, how they affect performance, and how to fix them for flawless front shifting.
For a full installation guide, visit:
How to Install, Adjust, and Maintain the Shimano FD-4700
1. Mounting the Derailleur Too High or Too Low
Why It’s a Problem
- If the derailleur is too high: The chain may struggle to shift to the large chainring.
- If the derailleur is too low: The chain may hit the derailleur cage, causing chain rub and poor shifting.
Correct Installation
- Position the outer derailleur plate 1–3 mm above the largest chainring.
- Ensure the outer cage is parallel to the chainrings for smooth movement.
For fine-tuning derailleur position, refer to:
Shimano FD-4700 Set-Up Quality: Why It Feels Off and How to Fix It
2. Incorrect Cable Tension
Why It’s a Problem
- Too loose: The derailleur won’t move properly when shifting.
- Too tight: It may cause over-shifting or make trimming adjustments difficult.
How to Fix It
- Before tightening the cable, shift to the smallest chainring.
- Pull the cable snug but not overtight before securing it.
- Use the barrel adjuster to fine-tune shifting tension.
For a detailed guide on cable adjustments, see:
How to Replace the Cable on Your Shimano FD-4700 for Better Performance
3. Misaligned Derailleur Angle
Why It’s a Problem
If the derailleur is tilted too far inward or outward, it will cause:
- Chain rub on one side of the derailleur cage.
- Inconsistent shifting between chainrings.
Correct Alignment
- The derailleur cage should be parallel to the chainrings.
- If it’s angled incorrectly, loosen the mounting bolt, realign it, and retighten to 5–7 Nm torque.
4. Not Adjusting the Limit Screws Properly
Why It’s a Problem
- Low limit screw too tight → Chain won’t shift to the small chainring.
- High limit screw too tight → Chain won’t shift to the large chainring.
- Limit screws too loose → The chain may drop off the chainrings.
Proper Adjustment
- Shift to the smallest chainring and adjust the low limit screw until the chain is 0–0.5 mm from the inner derailleur plate.
- Shift to the largest chainring and adjust the high limit screw until the chain is 0–0.5 mm from the outer derailleur plate.
For step-by-step limit screw tuning, check out:
Shimano FD-4700 Limit Screw Adjustments: How to Get Them Just Right
5. Forgetting to Use the Support Bolt
Why It’s a Problem
The support bolt stabilizes the derailleur and prevents flexing under load. If it’s not adjusted correctly:
- The derailleur may move under shifting force, leading to slow or inaccurate shifts.
- Excessive flex reduces shift crispness.
How to Fix It
- Use a 2 mm Allen key to turn the support bolt until it makes firm contact with the frame.
- Avoid overtightening, which can damage the frame.
6. Using the Wrong Shifter or Chainring Combination
Why It’s a Problem
The Shimano FD-4700 [paid link] has a unique cable pull ratio that only works with Shimano 11-speed road shifters, despite being a 10-speed derailleur.
If you try to pair it with a 10-speed shifter (from older Tiagra or Shimano 105 5700), it won’t shift correctly.
How to Fix It
- Always use an 11-speed Shimano road shifter (e.g., Tiagra 4700, 105 R7000, Ultegra 6800).
- Ensure your chainrings are 50/34T or 52/36T, as FD-4700 is optimized for these sizes.
For drivetrain compatibility, see:
Shimano FD-4700 Compatibility Secrets: What Works, What Fails, and What to Avoid
7. Not Lubricating Moving Parts
Why It’s a Problem
- A dry derailleur doesn’t move smoothly, causing slow shifts.
- Dirt buildup increases resistance, making shifts feel rough.
How to Fix It
- Apply bike lubricant to the pivot points (avoid getting oil on the derailleur plates).
- Wipe off excess lubricant to prevent dirt buildup.
For a complete cleaning guide, visit:
The Best Lubrication and Cleaning Routine for Your Shimano FD-4700
Common Installation Mistakes & Fixes
| Mistake | Consequence | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Derailleur too high | Slow shifts to large chainring | Lower derailleur to 1–3 mm above chainring |
| Derailleur too low | Chain rub on derailleur cage | Raise derailleur slightly |
| Cable too loose | Sluggish shifting | Tighten barrel adjuster |
| Cable too tight | Over-shifting | Loosen cable at clamp |
| Derailleur angle misaligned | Chain rub and slow shifts | Align cage parallel to chainrings |
| Limit screws misadjusted | Poor shifting or chain drops | Set 0–0.5 mm clearance on both sides |
| No support bolt contact | Derailleur flexing under load | Adjust support bolt to touch frame |
Conclusion
The Shimano FD-4700 front derailleur requires precise installation for optimal performance. By avoiding these common mistakes, you can ensure crisp shifting, no chain rub, and long-lasting performance.
If your shifting still feels off, double-check cable tension, limit screw settings, and derailleur height.
Would you like additional FD-4700 upgrade recommendations? Let us know in the comments!