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Methods For Joining/closing A Chain


Alex Berman

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I was wondering which method do you people use and which one is the most reliable when closing a chain. I know that in tarty bikes they dont recommend using the 'missing link' (quick link) provided with many chains. Although most bike shops I went to do recommend this. Other people close it with the tool and other people buy a separate split link or also called uni-connectors which are the three piece link (kinda like a sandwich). Which one is the safest? I am using a split link which is the once that comes with the chain. I have the KMC Z610 HX, 3/32".

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Always lose the 'special' link, use a normal link with a normal tool with the right technique. Mark the links you joined, if it snaps you can tell if it's because you're a retard or not ;)

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Always lose the 'special' link, use a normal link with a normal tool with the right technique. Mark the links you joined, if it snaps you can tell if it's because you're a retard or not ;)

Good tip, even though I already know I'm a retard, at least now I can keep an eye on the one slightly weaker link in my chain.

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Interesting, I never even considered swapping the split link to a normal bit of chain.

This is SO weird, just went on tarty to see when I ordered my chain im using now to see how long I had it, in 25 mins I will have had it exactly a year!!

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I have to say that I have never had problems with split links (well most of them anyway, the sram ones are shit). I try not to reuse them but I have only ever snapped one (not including sram) and I have snapped plenty of chains.

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I use a 3 part split link on my chains, i did used to just join the chain, but i snapped more chains doing it that way, and sometimes got tight spots maybe because i'm a retard and didn't do it right, i don't know.

But with the split link you can take the chain off easier, and it runs more freely, and touch wood, i haven't snapped one yet.

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I don't really see the point if you're running singlespeed. The removable links aren't inherently less strong. Providing you install the clip in the right direction, you can't really screw up. By contrast, a lot of people seem to struggle to join chains properly. I think that the quick links are easier and probably safer for most people.

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i have always thought that the split link is as strong as the chain.. why should they make a chain that can hold 1400kg, and send a split link in the package that holds ex 800kg?

Altough, after some years riding...its always the split link that breaks. So on my last chains, i just use the chain cutter to insert the pin again, and "lock" it by hammering the pin on the ends. To make a mushroom as said earlier in this thread.

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i have always thought that the split link is as strong as the chain.. why should they make a chain that can hold 1400kg, and send a split link in the package that holds ex 800kg?

chains are measured in max load by 7 links and the 3pc link.i.e. 7R8 chain,max load 12500N,the chain takes about 14000N if joined.its weaker in fact.(got that info from wippermann)

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i find these are just fine

chkmc-unilink.jpg

and all of these failed either snapped or just unlinked while riding

sram

SRAM%2010%20Speed%20Split%20Link%20Black.jpg?width=800

wippeeman

16128.jpg

shimano

P1000318.JPG

if you insist in using gears, i would say your best going for the lowest amount of gears possible to give the chain the space to be as wide as it can be for gears. so just keep it to 7 or 8 speed gears they use much stronger chains.

and the 7/8 spd chains are easier to use the original links to reconnect the slit chains where 9 and 10 spd chains are not recomended for reconnection

Edited by dezmtber
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  • 2 weeks later...

I use a 3 part split link on my chains, i did used to just join the chain, but i snapped more chains doing it that way, and sometimes got tight spots maybe because i'm a retard and didn't do it right, i don't know.

But with the split link you can take the chain off easier, and it runs more freely, and touch wood, i haven't snapped one yet.

I just bought one of those :). when mounting, does the spring need to be in any specific direction or it doesnt really matter? these links are reusable right?

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