Learn how to replace an old or damaged derailleur hanger.
Tools Needed:
- 15mm wrench
- 5mm Allen wrench
- Pliers (if needed)
Parts Needed:
- New derailleur hanger
Procedure:
-
Understand the Derailleur Hanger:
- The derailleur hanger is a soft aluminum piece that connects the derailleur to the frame.
- It is designed to break or bend in the event of a crash to protect the frame.
-
Remove Rear Wheel:
- Shift down to the smallest cog (hardest gear) using the shifter.
- Use a 15mm wrench to loosen and remove the bolts on either side of the rear wheel.
- Pull the derailleur away and drop the wheel.
-
Remove Derailleur from Hanger:
- Use a 5mm Allen wrench to carefully remove the derailleur from the hanger.
- If the hanger is broken, provide support with pliers as needed.
- Unscrew the derailleur from the hanger bracket.
-
Remove Broken Hanger from Frame:
- Use a 5mm Allen wrench to remove any remaining parts of the broken hanger from the frame.
- Ensure all pieces, including male and female bolts, are removed.
-
Inspect and Clean:
- Inspect the frame for cleanliness and any damage.
- Make sure there is no debris or grease on the frame.
- Ensure everything is straight and undamaged.
-
Install New Hanger:
- Insert the female part of the new hanger into the frame from behind, the align the hanger with the grooves on the frame.
- Insert and tighten the 5mm bolt snugly but not excessively, avoiding damage to the bracket.
-
Attach Derailleur:
- Carefully thread the derailleur back onto the hanger.
- Ensure the derailleur is aligned properly and not cross-threading.
- The derailleur should be tight enough to stay in place but not warp the bracket.
-
Replace Rear Wheel:
- Insert the rear wheel back into the bike.
- Ensure alignment by checking if the top pulley wheel aligns with the cogs of the cassette.
-
Test Shifting:
- Turn the cranks and shift through all gears.
- Ensure smooth shifting and proper alignment.
- Confirm that the derailleur limits and shifter indexing are set correctly.
By following these steps, you've successfully replaced the derailleur hanger on your QuietKat bike. If you need to adjust your shifting/derailleur, watch our videos on limit screw adjustments and derailleur adjustments.