Cannondale Chase Series Owner's Manual page 67

a few things to think about:
• onCe a CRaCks staRts it Can GRoW
and GRoW fast. Think about the crack as
forming a pathway to failure. This means that
any crack is potentially dangerous and will
only become more dangerous.
simPle RUle 1: If you find crack, replace
the part.
• CoRRosion sPeeds damaGe.
Cracks grow more quickly when they are in
a corrosive environment. Think about the
corrosive solution as further weakening and
extending the crack.
simPle RUle 2: Clean your bike, lubricate
your bike, protect your bike from salt, remove
any salt as soon as you can.
• stains and disColoRation Can
oCCUR neaR a CRaCk. Such staining
may be a warning sign that a crack exists.
simPle RUle 3: Inspect and investigate any
staining to see if it is associated with a crack.
• siGnifiCant sCRatChes, GoUGes,
dents oR sCoRinG CReate staRtinG
Points foR CRaCks. Think about
the cut surface as a focal point for stress
(in fact engineers call such areas "stress
risers," areas where the stress is increased).
Perhaps you have seen glass cut? Recall
how the glass was scored and then broke on
the scored line.
simPle RUle 4: Do not scratch, gouge or
score any surface. If you do, pay frequent
attention to this area or replace the part.
• some CRaCks (particularly larger ones)
may make CReakinG noise as yoU
Ride. Think about such a noise as a serious
warning signal. Note that a well-maintained
bicycle will be very quiet and free of creaks
and squeaks.
simPle RUle 5: Investigate and find the
source of any noise. It may not a be a crack,
but whatever is causing the noise should be
fixed promptly.
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