this post was submitted on 25 Jul 2026
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I adjusted the indexing cable to wrong direction, ended up getting the derailleur stuck in the wheel and bent off. I am a moron, I know.

Now, I obviously need to replace the derailleur arm, how about the chain and can you see any damage on the rest of the derailleur? The pulleys spin just fine, cable seems fine. Is there any specific damage I should look for?

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[–] Iconoclast@feddit.uk 2 points 9 hours ago (1 children)

I've muscled mine back straightish multiple times. Good as new.

[–] 666dollarfootlong@lemmy.world 1 points 9 hours ago

Good to hear, as I definitely can't afford a completely new derail haha. I ordered a new hanger, just have to wait and see if it's enough

[–] Eat_Your_Paisley@lemmy.world 4 points 11 hours ago (1 children)

I'd probably straighten the cage and replace that broken in half derailleur hanger, if it won't shift correctly after that just replace it.

[–] 666dollarfootlong@lemmy.world 3 points 11 hours ago

Yea I think that's all I can do as I'm broke af right now

[–] Fourth@mander.xyz 2 points 10 hours ago (1 children)

In a perfect world you would just replace that derailleur because undoubtedly there's some little problem somewhere, those things can be touchy. But in a practical sense just eyeball it the best you can and zip it right back on, see how it goes. If you have persistent problems, you'll know to swap it out quick.

[–] Fourth@mander.xyz 1 points 10 hours ago

PS, no shame. The best way to learn is through real world experience. Things happen.

[–] TheOubliette@lemmy.ml 2 points 12 hours ago

I would replace the derailleur since straightening any part of it that's bent probably won't work that well and buying replacement parts is probably as expensive as replacement if this is 10 speed or below. Can't say anything about the chain without inspecting every link. Need a new derailleur hanger of course and for someone to ensure it's straight.

[–] mmmm@sopuli.xyz 2 points 12 hours ago (1 children)

Other than straighting the derailleur arms back again and checking the derailleur hanger alignment just in case I think it's fine, those non-gazillion-sprocket derailleurs from back in the day are quite sturdy. We all do stupid things voluntarily or not so don't be worried

[–] 666dollarfootlong@lemmy.world 1 points 11 hours ago

Sorry, which part Is the derailleur arm(s)? When I previously said the arm broke I meant the hanger. The hanger is the part that snapped in half.