Not sure on your chain size? Hopefully this may help >>>
Chain Pitch
Chain pitch relates to the both distance between the centre of each roller pin [the first number on the pitch i.e the 5 in 525] and the width of the roller internally between the plates gives the send part of the chain pitch [i.e the 5 in 525] this is NOT the roller diameter.
It’s crucial to fit the correct pitch size chain and matching sprockets to save any damage or inconvenience!
Here’s some tips that may help?:
- The chain pitch is often stamped on the side plates of the chain – clean the chain and see if you can spot the number – e.g. 525 etc
- If it’s not on the chain it may be on the sprockets, check the sprocket part numbers stamped/etched onto them as see if the part number include the chain size e.g. 477U-525-45-HA = 525
If none of this helps hopefully these dimension charts may help guide:
Metric Dimensions
Chain | Pitch | Width | Roller Diameter |
415 | 12.70mm | 4.88mm | 7.75mm |
420 | 12.70mm | 6.35mm | 7.75mm |
428 | 12.70mm | 7.75mm | 8.51mm |
520 | 15.88mm | 6.35mm | 10.16mm |
525 | 15.88mm | 7.85mm | 10.16mm |
530 | 15.88mm | 9.53mm | 10.16mm |
532 | 15.88mm | 9.53mm | 11.10mm |
630 | 19.05mm | 9.53mm | 11.91mm |
632 | 19.05mm | 9.66mm | 12.68mm |
Classic Chain Sizes and Modern Equivalents
Classic Size | Equivalent |
1/2 x 3/16 Inch | Modern 415 |
1/2 x 1/4 Inch | Modern 420 |
1/2 x 5/16 Inch | Modern 428 |
5/8 x 1/4 Inch | Modern 520 |
5/8 x 5/16 Inch | Modern 530 |
5/8 x 3/8 Inch | Modern 530 |
3/4 x 3/8 Inch | Modern 630 |
Chain Length
Chain length is most commonly stated in number of links or pins, as complete chain links have x2 pins the number is always even i.e. 100 – 102 – 104 etc.
Simply count the number of pins you have on your chain = the length.
Or if you count the number of side plates on the chain and times by 2 i.e 50 plates = 100 pins = 100 link chain.
If none of this gives you certainty check with a qualified mechanic! 😉
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