chains

3110neil
3110neil Posts: 303
edited June 2009 in MTB workshop & tech
Hi
just received my new rear mech ,kmc powerlinks and chain tool ,now do i have to use the powerlinks when i split the chain ,or can i just push the pin so far out ,and use the same pin and push back in ,which will be stronger. Thank you

Comments

  • nicklouse
    nicklouse Posts: 50,673
    you should never re use any pins.




    except on some Singlespeed chains.
    "Do not follow where the path may lead, Go instead where there is no path, and Leave a Trail."
    Parktools :?:SheldonBrown
  • 3110neil
    3110neil Posts: 303
    Thanks nicklouse,ill use the powerlinks i bought ,will i have to take any links out of the chain ,the chain hasnt stretched its pretty new ,so will i be able to keep it the same length .Only changing the derailler
  • alfablue
    alfablue Posts: 8,497
    I don't know if this is the "proper" approach, but as you are changing the mech (rear mech) you could split the mech cage rather than the chain (2 allen bolts). Provided you reassemble with a bit of thread lock it should be okay - I have done this a few times. The Power links are good though, I always carry a spare for chain breakages (though a chain tool is still required to remove any twisted links).
  • nicklouse
    nicklouse Posts: 50,673
    alfablue


    NEW chain so it will need shortening any way and as the OP has a powerlink it is a better idea to use it.

    also if you are just changing the jockey wheels why would you need to do anything to the chain?
    "Do not follow where the path may lead, Go instead where there is no path, and Leave a Trail."
    Parktools :?:SheldonBrown
  • alfablue
    alfablue Posts: 8,497
    Oh, my impression was that it was an existing chain, as he has to split it. And he is changing the mech isn't he, not just jockey wheels? I'm confused, but yes, Powerlink approach is probably better, although I would be tempted to avoid splitting the chain and saving the powerlink, but that's just me.
  • 3110neil
    3110neil Posts: 303
    nicklouse the chain is not new ,its only done about 60 miles ,its had nothing rough ,didnt know if i would have to shorten it thats all ,or will it be ok the lenght it is
    thanks
  • bungalistic
    bungalistic Posts: 543
    Go to this site: http://www.parktool.com/repair/readhowto.asp?id=26

    And look for this very simple way of calculating chain length - Chain Sizing - Largest Cog and Largest Chainring Method

    It's super simple to check and set up, adjust to right length and use powerlink to rejoin.

    nicklouse I've re-used pins on my existing chain loads of times, never had any problems, maybe i'm just lucky or maybe cheap sram chains are just hardy b******s
  • 3110neil
    3110neil Posts: 303
    cheers for the help ,all done ,what a differance xt shifters and rear mech are to what i had

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