How to Determine the Pitch of a Roller Chain

Roller chains are used to transmit mechanical power on chainsaws, bicycles, motorcycles and a range of industrial equipment. Roller chains use a simple yet strong linkage system. Two overlapping metal plates are linked by a central pin, which is surrounded by a rolling bushing. This bushing allows for teeth (from a bicycle sprocket or the edges of a chainsaw blade) to engage and move the chain. The pitch, or the distance between its outer links, is helpful to know when replacing a chain or determining its rate of wear.

Things You'll Need

  • Measuring tape
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Instructions

    • 1

      Make sure the chain is pulled taut. As long as the chain is straight and level when measured, you do not have to remove it from the machine or object to which it is attached.

    • 2

      Measure the distance between three consecutive linking pins. Begin at the center of the first pin for each measurement.

    • 3

      Divide the total measurement by 2. For example, if the total is 3/4 of an inch, the pitch would be 3/8 of an inch.