A Quick 1960's 5 speed Chain Size Question?

[Robbied196]

I googled myself to the point of confusion, sometimes too much information is as bad as too little!

I have a 1961 Dawes Dalesman, single crank, very like a williams and a Benelux rear derailleur shifting across 5 sprockets. It needs a new chain, am I right in thinking I need a 1/2" x 1/8"?

Or, if anyone can point me in the right direction on Ebay that would be a big help!

Many thanks

 

[fiks]

AFAIK derailleur always uses 3/32 not 1/8th.

 

[keithglos]

If the small cogs show any wear then the new chain will probably slip or jump when pedal pressure is applied.
In the 60's I used to replace hundreds of 5 speed freewheel blocks and chains, (3/32) it was not worth just replacing the chain. This was seen as a sub 10 minute job, and was done for £1.60, with no labour charge.

 

[Robbied196]

Thanks to both of you, at least I now know I need a 3/32. The cogs actually look pretty good, so I'll see how it goes

 

[Midlife]

Personally I'd keep an eye out for a new block as well, it doesn't take much wear on a block to make a new chain skip.

The later slant pantograph rear mechs helped a bit as there was a bit more chain wrapround but older mechs keep less cogs in contact...

If you can afford a few quid more I'd simply buy a replacement block

Shaun