Campag Servicing Time

Garz

Hi guys, it is time to service the bike after almost a year of usage (it has had special treatment so has not been abused all year).

I have checked the chain for stretch, it is an 11 speed chorus chain and should be changed sooner rather than later. I was shocked to see the price of the official campag tool so was going to plump for the KMC 11 speed with missing link chain.

Query 1:

Is this the sensible option, as the chain is around the same price as another chorus chain?

Secondly if I get the KMC 11 speed chain, to remove links to get it the same length would I use a standard chain tool (which I got in a budget kit a while ago) to adjust the KMC chain?

Query 2:

It would be a sensible time to service the BB too. I have the UT BB and cranks. Is it worth investing in the extra tools or just take the bike to the shop?

Is there any wisdom from other users of this system in what tools to buy? Your suggestions as always are welcome!

Monty Dog

1: By all accounts, KMC 11 speed chain and link is fine, or just use the link on the Campagnolo chain? You can use any chain tool to split the chain - only joining requires the special one.

2:To check the UT bearings, release the 10mm retainer screw and inspect the bearings on the crank spindle - if they are still smooth, just need to regrease and reinstall. You can buy aftermarket tools relatively cheaply now, so really depends on how long you're planning to keep the bike?

Wirral_paul

I'm also running Chorus 11 speed and use a Lezyne chain tool thats specifically made for the Campag 11spd. Its around £20 - £25 rather than £130 for the genuine Campag one.

I do carry a KMC link with me for emergency use. Not needed to remove the chain but as ^^^, will just use a link in future.

Garz

Monty Dog wrote:

1: By all accounts, KMC 11 speed chain and link is fine, or just use the link on the Campagnolo chain?

Sorry MD, by this post I am planning to replace the whole chain as it's nearing the % stretch to begin wearing the cassette away. So whilst I'm taking it off the KMC chain (which comes with the missing link) is one option, or get a campag tool and buy another chorus chain.

Monty Dog wrote:

You can buy aftermarket tools relatively cheaply now, so really depends on how long you're planning to keep the bike?

The bike is a keeper, it is a titanium frame specifically built last year to stay. The campag parts have been great just after 3k+ miles I want to keep it in good stead. So the chain can be sorted with the one purchase (KMC 11 spd chain), any specific tools recommended for the BB servicing?

Wirral_paul

The bearings remain on the axle halves when you remove the cranks so very easy to clean. If you need to change the bearings then its simple enough by the looks of it.

http://www.campagnolo.com/repository/documenti/en/TECHNICAL%20MANUAL%202011.pdf

Velonutter

Stick to a new Chorus chain and just buy the KMC quick link, standard chain tool is all that is needed, I'm not a fan of other makes of chains.

You don't say how many miles the chain has done, I always change mine after 2000 miles max and that way I get more out of the Sprocket

Garz

Garz wrote:

The bike is a keeper, it is a titanium frame specifically built last year to stay. The campag parts have been great just after 3k+ miles I want to keep it in good stead.

I mentioned in the previous post the mileage velonutter ^ (the true figure according to the garmin is nearer 3198 mi).

I checked for chain wear and agree that it is time to replace the chain, as this is the first time doing so on a campag chain I thought I would ask here first. What I was paranoid of was buying say the chorus chain, but to remove the link down to the desired length damaging the link via not using the proper tool - thus rendering the new chain useless.

rubbernekker

The Campag chain should only be split from one end- this means that any damage you do to the outer link plates (the important ones) is confined to the bit you are taking off anyway. Campag see- well thought out. Stick with a Chorus chain- they are the best.

Garz

Excellent. Thanks for the replies guys!

canamdad

I wouldn't think with that mileage that your crank bearings would need service. I have a 4 year old Mirage with 9000+ miles and it's still smooth even though most of that mileage is in the grit of winter.

Garz

Quite right canamdad, I am however pondering on building up the tools required to perform my own maintenance. I ordered a chorus chain and a Lezyne chain tool just awaiting delivery.