Bike Maintenance: How to Replace a Derailleur Hanger

The derailleur hanger connects the derailleur to the bike frame. If the hanger gets damaged or bent, you’ll need to replace it. In this video, we show you how to remove the rear derailleur and derailleur hanger, install a new hanger and reinstall the rear derailleur. Shop REI’s selection of derailleur hangers at http://www.rei.com/c/derailleur-hangers.

Video Transcript:
If your derailer takes a hit during your ride, the derailer hanger is there to absorb the impact. If the hanger gets damaged or bent, you'll need to replace it. You'll need a hex wrench, bike cleaner, and bike grease. Start by taking the rear wheel off your bike.

Loosen and remove the bolt that connects the derailer to the hanger. It's fine to let the derailer hang from the shift cable while you work. Now remove the hanger insert from the drop outs on the frame. Some hangers will have two halves to remove. Before installing the replacement hanger, clean off the drop out area.

Then lubricate both the inside and outside of the frame. Now you can install the new hanger and tighten it into place. Grease up the threads on the derailer mounting bolt and reconnect the derailer. It's best to use a torque wrench to tighten the bolt to the manufacturer's specified torque.

Now re-install the rear wheel and make sure the gears are shifting normally. To recap, remove the rear wheel. Then remove the derailer from the hanger and the hanger from the frame. Install the new hanger. Replace the derailer and the wheel and shift through the gears.