Missing link in chain

mgodders

Hi All,

Just a quick question really....

Over the weekend whilst cleaning my chain (Shim 105 groupset) I lost the pin upon splitting (it went down a gap in the garden deck!)...

Can I shorten the chain up by a link to get around the problem or is it recommended that I get a replacement pin (if that's possible)??

Cheers,
Godders.

keef66

You should really use a new pin each time you rejoin the chain anyway. You can buy them in packs. Make sure you buy Shimano, and get the right ones for your chain.

(on my MTB they have a bit you snap off after it's inserted; not sure about a 105 road chain, but I'm sure there will be somebody along soon who can tell you)

redddraggon

I would never use a joining pin. You can buy KMC and SRAM "missing links" that will fit on your chain - makes taking off and putting back on a lot easier.

I recommend getting one of these:

http://wiggle.co.uk/ProductDetail.aspx? ... in%20Links

I'd also recommend getting KMC or Wippermann chains in the future - they come with the special link as standard.

JWSurrey

Ditto - I prefer the Wippermann to the KMC missing link, as it's easier to take apart to service.
Check you get the correct width of missing link though - i.e. 10 speed etc.
Having seen 2 chain disasters on the last 5 odd rides I've done, I'm now also buying a spare to keep in the saddlebag with the chain tool.

clanton

Just to be clear - can these Wipperman links be added to an in use Shimano chain without weakening it? And can they be taken apart and reaasembled regularly?

Monty Dog

There's no problem using these links with a Shimano chain, provided the link is correct for the width of chain i.e. 9 speed / 10 speed etc