I've spent a bundle on sprockets for the 420 size chain. They are in much shorter supply and harder to find than the more standard size 40 chain. The size 40 chain and sprockets can be purchased almost anywhere and a lot cheaper with a very big selection available.
From what I have researched, there is only one difference between the 420 and the #40 chains. It is the width of the roller, therefore leading to the total width of the chain. The pitch is the same on both 1/2", the roller is the same diameter 5/16th's" the pin is the same 5/32", even the chain strength is very close. But the roller width is slightly different . The 420 chain roller width is 1/4" while the #40 is 5/16", the 420 being 1/16" narrower than the #40.
My question is, What will happen If I use a #40 chain on the 420 sprockets? It would be a little sloppy. Would this cause wear problem, how about chain running off the sprocket problems. Has anyone had experience with this? I'm worried that now all is done, that the chain might need replacing also.
A little back ground. The mechanical stores around the area have told me they no longer are sold the 420 chain in bulk for resale because it is classified as a motorcycle chain and the chain makers are restricting it to motorcycle outlets only. It is also an older type chain that isn't used as frequently today. I ended up having to buy 420 sprockets with my tooth pattern and have them machined to fit my applications.(exact matches were not in the books) I should have just changed over to #40 to begin with and changed out everything.(they were all available! and at about 1/4 the cost) It would have been much much cheaper! But that is hind sight now.
Thanks for any input in advance.
From what I have researched, there is only one difference between the 420 and the #40 chains. It is the width of the roller, therefore leading to the total width of the chain. The pitch is the same on both 1/2", the roller is the same diameter 5/16th's" the pin is the same 5/32", even the chain strength is very close. But the roller width is slightly different . The 420 chain roller width is 1/4" while the #40 is 5/16", the 420 being 1/16" narrower than the #40.
My question is, What will happen If I use a #40 chain on the 420 sprockets? It would be a little sloppy. Would this cause wear problem, how about chain running off the sprocket problems. Has anyone had experience with this? I'm worried that now all is done, that the chain might need replacing also.
A little back ground. The mechanical stores around the area have told me they no longer are sold the 420 chain in bulk for resale because it is classified as a motorcycle chain and the chain makers are restricting it to motorcycle outlets only. It is also an older type chain that isn't used as frequently today. I ended up having to buy 420 sprockets with my tooth pattern and have them machined to fit my applications.(exact matches were not in the books) I should have just changed over to #40 to begin with and changed out everything.(they were all available! and at about 1/4 the cost) It would have been much much cheaper! But that is hind sight now.
Thanks for any input in advance.
Last edited:
