Introduction
This manual provides essential information for the proper installation, operation, and maintenance of your SHIMANO RD-M310 DL Altus rear derailleur. Please read this manual thoroughly before use to ensure safe and correct handling of the product.
Safety Information
Always observe the following safety precautions to prevent personal injury and damage to your bicycle components.
- Ensure all components are securely fastened according to torque specifications. Loose components can lead to loss of control and serious injury.
- Regularly inspect the derailleur and chain for wear, damage, or loose connections. Replace worn parts immediately.
- If you are unsure about installation or adjustment procedures, consult a professional bicycle mechanic.
- Keep hands and clothing clear of moving parts, especially the chain and gears, during operation.
Package Contents
Verify that all items are present in the package:
- 1 x SHIMANO RD-M310 DL Altus Rear Derailleur
Setup and Installation
The SHIMANO RD-M310 DL Altus rear derailleur is designed for 7 or 8-speed drivetrains and features a clamp-on mount type. Follow these general steps for installation:
- Mounting the Derailleur: Attach the derailleur to the derailleur hanger on your bicycle frame. Ensure it is properly aligned and tightened to the manufacturer's recommended torque.
- Cable Routing: Route the shift cable from your shifter through the cable housing and secure it to the derailleur's cable fixing bolt. Ensure the cable moves freely.
- Limit Screw Adjustment: Adjust the high (H) and low (L) limit screws to prevent the chain from shifting beyond the smallest and largest cogs, respectively. This prevents the chain from falling off the cassette or into the spokes.
- B-Tension Adjustment: Adjust the B-tension screw to set the proper gap between the upper guide pulley and the cassette cogs. This ensures smooth shifting across all gears.
- Cable Tension Adjustment: Fine-tune the cable tension using the barrel adjuster on the shifter or derailleur to achieve precise shifting across all gears.
This image shows the SHIMANO RD-M310 DL Altus rear derailleur, featuring its black body design and overall structure. It is ready for installation on a bicycle frame.
Operating Instructions
The SHIMANO RD-M310 DL Altus derailleur works in conjunction with your bicycle's shifters to move the chain between different cogs on the rear cassette, allowing you to select appropriate gear ratios for varying terrain and speeds.
- Shifting Up (to smaller cogs): Press the release lever on your shifter to move the chain to a smaller cog, increasing your gear ratio for higher speeds or downhill riding.
- Shifting Down (to larger cogs): Press the main lever on your shifter to move the chain to a larger cog, decreasing your gear ratio for easier pedaling on inclines or starting from a stop.
- Always shift gears while pedaling forward with moderate pressure. Avoid shifting under heavy load or while stationary to prevent damage to the drivetrain.
Maintenance
Regular maintenance will prolong the life and ensure optimal performance of your derailleur.
- Cleaning: Keep the derailleur clean from dirt, mud, and grime. Use a brush and appropriate degreaser, then rinse and dry thoroughly.
- Lubrication: Apply a small amount of bicycle-specific lubricant to the pivot points of the derailleur and the chain regularly. Wipe off any excess lubricant.
- Inspection: Periodically check for bent derailleur hangers, worn pulleys, or loose bolts. Address any issues promptly.
- Cable and Housing: Inspect shift cables and housing for fraying, kinks, or corrosion. Replace them if necessary to maintain smooth shifting.
Troubleshooting
If you experience shifting issues, consider the following common problems and solutions:
| Problem | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Poor or slow shifting | Incorrect cable tension, dirty cable/housing, bent derailleur hanger | Adjust cable tension with barrel adjuster, clean/replace cable and housing, check/straighten derailleur hanger |
| Chain falls off cassette | Incorrect limit screw adjustment | Adjust H or L limit screws to prevent over-shifting |
| Noisy shifting or chain rub | Incorrect B-tension, worn chain/cogs, dirty drivetrain | Adjust B-tension screw, inspect and replace worn drivetrain components, clean and lubricate drivetrain |
Specifications
- Brand: SHIMANO
- Model: RD-M310 DL Altus
- Model Number: 586454
- Speed Compatibility: 7 or 8 Speed
- Mounting Type: Clamp-On Mount
- Item Weight: 0.66 Pounds
- UPC: 698238401937, 784427907165
Warranty and Support
For warranty information or technical support, please refer to the official SHIMANO website or contact your authorized SHIMANO dealer. Keep your proof of purchase for any warranty claims.
