What is a Drive Sprocket? - Sprockets are rotating parts with teeth that are used in conjunction with a chain to transmit power
- In order for sprockets and chain to be compatible with each other they must both have the same thickness and pitch.
- In order for the sprockets and chain to work effectively, all of the sprockets should be on parallel shafts with their corresponding teeth on the same plane.
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Parts of a Sprocket - Number of Teeth - The total number of teeth (projections) around the whole circumference of a sprocket
- Pitch Diameter (PD) - An imaginary circle which is traced by the center of the chain pins when the sprocket rotates while meshed with a chain
- Pitch - The amount of pitch diameter in inches per tooth. Gears with a larger pitch will have bigger teeth
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When to Replace? - Check how well the chain meshes with the sprocket teeth. In a healthy chain and sprocket combo, the individual chain rollers align perfectly with the spaces between the sprocket teeth and fit down into those U-shaped grooves evenly
- Look closely at the sprocket teeth to see if they have become sharp at the tips and/or slightly curled. The teeth on a new sprocket are straight and have a flat or domed shape at the tip, If the teeth are sharp, the sprocket is worn
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