The Shimano FD-4700 [paid link] front derailleur is designed to deliver smooth and precise front shifting, but if it isn’t set up correctly, you may experience slow shifting, chain rub, or even dropped chains. Many common issues result from misalignment, incorrect cable tension, or improper limit screw adjustments.
This guide will help you identify and fix setup mistakes, ensuring your Shimano FD-4700 [paid link] shifts smoothly and reliably.
For a complete front derailleur installation guide, check:
How to Install, Adjust, and Maintain the Shimano FD-4700
1. Signs That Your Shimano FD-4700 Is Not Set Up Correctly
If your derailleur is not shifting properly, you may notice:
- Slow or hesitant shifting between chainrings
- Chain rub against the derailleur cage
- Clicking or rattling sounds while pedaling
- Chain drops when shifting to the small or large chainring
- Shifting requires excessive force at the lever
If you experience any of these issues, the derailleur setup may need adjustments.
2. Common Shimano FD-4700 Set-Up Mistakes and Fixes
A. The Derailleur Is Mounted Too High or Too Low
Why It’s a Problem
- Too high → The chain struggles to shift onto the large chainring.
- Too low → The chain rubs against the derailleur cage.
How to Fix It
- Shift to the smallest chainring.
- Measure the gap between the outer derailleur plate and the largest chainring.
- Adjust the derailleur height so that this gap is 1–3 mm.
- Tighten the clamp bolt to 5–7 Nm torque.
For installation troubleshooting, visit:
Shimano FD-4700 Installation Mistakes That Can Ruin Your Set-Up
B. The Derailleur Cage Angle Is Incorrect
Why It’s a Problem
- If the derailleur is tilted inward or outward, shifting will be inconsistent and noisy.
How to Fix It
- Loosen the clamp bolt slightly.
- Rotate the derailleur until the outer cage is perfectly parallel to the chainrings.
- Retighten the clamp bolt to secure the position.
C. Cable Tension Is Too Loose or Too Tight
Why It’s a Problem
- Too loose → The derailleur won’t move properly when shifting.
- Too tight → Over-shifting can occur, or the derailleur won’t trim properly.
How to Fix It
- Shift to the smallest chainring.
- Pull the cable snug but not overtight before securing it.
- Use the barrel adjuster to fine-tune tension:
- Turn counterclockwise to increase tension.
- Turn clockwise to reduce tension.
If the cable is worn or stretched, consider replacing it:
How to Replace the Cable on Your Shimano FD-4700 for Better Performance
D. The Limit Screws Are Misadjusted
Why It’s a Problem
- Incorrect high or low limit screw settings can cause chain rub, shifting delays, or dropped chains.
How to Fix It
- Set the Low Limit Screw (L)
- Shift to the smallest chainring and largest rear cog.
- Adjust the low limit screw until the chain is 0–0.5 mm from the inner derailleur plate.
- Set the High Limit Screw (H)
- Shift to the largest chainring and smallest rear cog.
- Adjust the high limit screw to maintain 0–0.5 mm clearance from the chain.
For a detailed guide on limit screw adjustments, check:
Shimano FD-4700 Limit Screw Adjustments: How to Get Them Just Right
E. The Support Bolt Is Not Adjusted
Why It’s a Problem
- The support bolt stabilizes the derailleur and prevents flexing under load. If it’s not adjusted, shifting can feel sluggish.
How to Fix It
- Use a 2 mm Allen key to turn the support bolt until it just touches the frame.
- Ensure the derailleur remains properly aligned before tightening completely.
3. Troubleshooting Common Shimano FD-4700 Issues
| Problem | Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Chain rub on small chainring | Low limit screw misadjusted | Adjust low limit screw |
| Chain rub on large chainring | High limit screw misaligned | Adjust high limit screw |
| Slow shifting to large chainring | Cable tension too loose | Tighten barrel adjuster |
| Chain drops when shifting | Derailleur height too high | Lower derailleur to 1–3 mm above chainring |
| Clicking or noisy shifting | Dirty pivots or misalignment | Clean and lubricate derailleur |
| Shifting feels stiff | Corroded cable or dry pivots | Lubricate pivots or replace cable |
For more troubleshooting tips, visit:
The Most Common Shimano FD-4700 Problems and How to Solve Them
4. How Often Should You Adjust Your Shimano FD-4700?
Regular adjustments and maintenance will keep your derailleur performing at its best.
| Task | Frequency |
|---|---|
| Check for chain rub and shifting response | Every 2 weeks |
| Adjust cable tension and limit screws | Every 1–2 months |
| Clean and lubricate derailleur pivots | Every 6 months |
| Inspect cables for wear and replace if needed | Annually |
For a full maintenance routine, visit:
Shimano FD-4700 Maintenance Plan: How to Keep Your Set-Up Perfect for Years
5. Conclusion
If your Shimano FD-4700 [paid link] front derailleur isn’t shifting smoothly, the most likely causes are incorrect height, cable tension, limit screw settings, or derailleur angle. By fine-tuning these adjustments, you can restore crisp, effortless shifting and prevent future issues.
If shifting problems persist, check for worn cables, derailleur misalignment, or drivetrain compatibility issues.
Would you like additional guidance on Shimano FD-4700 upgrades and fine-tuning? Let us know in the comments!