I was surprised to read that one can just purchase the modern Shimano derailleur wheels to use on 5,6 or 7 speed freewheels. How could this be? The modern parts available in bike shops are designed for 9 or 10 speed freehubs. The teeth on these freehubs are thinner and so the jockey wheels and such need to be thinner to accommodate the thinner chain. Also I am wondering if replacing the derailleur wheels with fresh appropriate versions will help silence gear train chatter. I usually use fresh PC58 chains and NOS freewheels and NOS chainwheels because I like crisp drivetrains. Sometimes I get less than ideal sounds even though everything is really new. I never thought to replace the rd wheels though.
Garth Libre in Miami Fl.