How to Weld a Weld-On Sprocket and Weld-On Hub Together

How to Weld a Weld-On Sprocket and Weld-On Hub Together MDS of Michigan
Welding a weld-on sprocket sounds simple until the hub is loose in the center and one bad weld could make the whole assembly wobble. The goal is to keep the sprocket straight, square, and clear of the roller chain path.
The first time someone welds a weld-on sprocket and hub together, the question usually is not complicated: how do I keep this thing from wobbling? One practical shop tip says to “clamp the sprocket and hub together,” add “a few tack welds spaced around,” and check that everything stays square before finishing the weld. Another reminder is just as important: do not let the weld get in the way of the chain, especially on smaller sprockets.
That is really the whole job in simple terms: hold it straight, tack it evenly, and keep the chain path clear.Weld-on sprockets are useful when a standard finished bore sprocket is not the right fit. They let you pair a plate-style sprocket with a weld-on hub to match a shaft size, bore style, or custom equipment setup. Let’s learn how to they fit together!

Need it welded for you? MDS of Michigan can weld weld-on sprockets and weld-on hubs together at our Jenison, MI location. We also have an in-house machinist to help with bore work, keyways, and custom fitment. – Click Here to Request a Quote

Before Welding a Weld-On Sprocket

Before welding, confirm that the weld-on hub matches the sprocket series, chain size, bore requirement, and application. For example, XX weld-on hubs can be used with larger weld-on sprocket sizes, with common minimum sprocket sizes including 4024X, 5020X, 6017X, 8014X, and 10013X.

Also check chain clearance before welding. On larger weld-on sprockets, there is usually more room for the weld bead. On smaller weld-on sprockets, weld placement matters because the weld can interfere with the roller chain if it is too close to the chain path.

Welding note: Low hydrogen electrodes are commonly recommended for welding weld-on sprocket parts. Always choose the welding process, filler material, and procedure based on the sprocket material, equipment, and application.

Welding Instructions MDS of Michigan

How to Weld a Weld-On Sprocket and Hub

The most important part of welding a weld-on sprocket and hub together is keeping the hub square to the sprocket. A few careful tack welds and an alignment check can prevent a sprocket that runs crooked after it is installed.

1
PREP

Clean the Sprocket and Hub

Remove oil, paint, rust, scale, and debris from the weld area. Clean steel helps create a stronger weld and reduces contamination.

2
FIT

Seat the Hub in the Sprocket

Place the weld-on hub into the sprocket and make sure it sits flat. The hub should be fully seated before you tack or weld anything.

3
ALIGN

Clamp Everything Square

Clamp the sprocket and hub together so they cannot move. This is the step that helps prevent wobble in the finished sprocket assembly.

4
TACK

Tack Weld in Several Places

Add small tack welds spaced evenly around the hub. Do not fully weld one side first, because heat can pull the hub out of alignment.

5
CHECK

Recheck Alignment

Before the final weld, check that the hub is still square and the sprocket still runs true. It is much easier to correct after tack welding than after the final weld is complete.

6
WELD

Finish the Weld

Complete the weld as needed for the application. On smaller sprockets, keep the weld bead away from the area where the roller chain will ride.

Large vs. Small Weld-On Sprockets

For larger weld-on sprockets, there is usually more room around the hub, which makes weld placement easier. For smaller weld-on sprockets, the weld must be placed carefully so it does not interfere with the chain as it wraps around the sprocket teeth.

In simple terms: clean it, clamp it square, tack it evenly, check it, and keep the weld away from the chain.

Why Have MDS of Michigan Weld It?

If you do not want to risk misalignment, MDS of Michigan can help. Our team can weld weld-on sprockets and hubs together in Jenison, Michigan, and our in-house machinist can help with bore sizing, keyways, and other modifications. This is especially helpful when the sprocket needs to fit an existing shaft, repair job, or custom piece of equipment.

Need a Weld-On Sprocket and Hub?

MDS of Michigan can help you source the right weld-on sprocket, match the correct weld-on hub, and weld or machine the assembly for your application.

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