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Marking chains permanently for later identification

Bicycles Asked on September 1, 2021

I’d like to mark chains so that I can identify each one out of a few chains of the same model.

Any idea how I can do this in a way that will survive exposure to solvents / lubricants / use on the drivetrain?

Background for anyone interested: I’ve got a few chains in rotation which I strip back & lubricate in a batch. I’d like to leave one chain installed on the bike while I re-lubricate as it’s a bit time consuming, and I’d like to get roughly the same wear across chains by rotating through which chain is left installed while I work on the rest.

5 Answers

I would honestly keep track of them with a tag somehow off the bike vs. mark the physical chain.

However, if you really want to mark the chain, I would make a mark like a scratch on the master-link of each chain to achieve what you are trying to do. This way you know where to look to id the chain. Perhaps us a chisel tip or punch to literally make your mark.

Answered by Tude Productions on September 1, 2021

Attach a large washer to the chain with some binding wire. Use a centre punch to mark the washer with one to several dots and keep a log of those. The washer will stay attached while you clean the chains and the marking won't be washed off by a solvent.

Answered by Carel on September 1, 2021

The only thing I can think of is to use master links from different brands (Shimano, SRAM, Wipperman, KMC …). They usually tell you not to mix master links and chains but in my experience it works great.

On older (≤8 speed) chains you might be able to put a nice, thin scratch on the face of pins with the edge of a file. On newer chains the pins don’t stick out anymore.

As Daniel suggests, additional master links or closing pins at a certain distance could be used as well.

Of course in storage you have lots of options, for example zip-ties or (electrical) cables wrapped/tied around the chain work great.

Answered by Michael on September 1, 2021

This is dependent on your choice of chain, but KMC chains are available in many colors. Wipperman chains are available in a couple of different finishes. And their master links are also available in a couple of different finishes (I've used KMC master links with Shimano chains without incident, fwiw).

Answered by Adam Rice on September 1, 2021

Use a tungsten carbide scribe. I recommend straight lines only like ticks, crosses, and tees, not fancy letters or symbol with curves, since you may need multiple passes.

Answered by DKNguyen on September 1, 2021

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