Chain Link Extractors

BobbyTrigger

Is there any difference in link extractors with regards to how much they cost? Ie – does a more expensive tool remove the link easier?

Broke out the old link extractor at the weekend to give the hack a winter service, whilst attempting to push the pin out to remove the chain I bent the link on one side. Its okay as I managed to straighten the link with pliers, but kinda puts me off taking the chain off again, never mind using it on my GT, as that’s a 9 speed chain and I guess even more fragile than my 8 speed.

I don’t seem to remember having this trouble in the past.

Or am I just missing a trick?

supersonic

This is one tool, along with cable cutters, that I think is worth spending some money on. The cheap ones often bend and break.

You'll notice that there are a couple of generic ones out there under various brands, ranging in price from a few quid to about £15. Look closely at the pic: either get the cheapest, or not at all.

Park, Shimano and Cylco make good ones.

BobbyTrigger

cheers super - i think i will. the one i have cost a couple of quid about 12 years ago - its very basic.

and i know what you mean about the cable cutters too - tried using a cheap pair to replace the brake cables on the same service, took some effort to cut the wires to the point it was difficult getting the cable ends on.

russwparkin

i used to be a cycle mechanic and from experience found the paark ones to be brilliant- the big work shop one but equally the park compact £12.99 from crc, also buy a power link, a few quid but no chain tool needed just muck hands! hope this helps

BobbyTrigger

yeah wiil do for sure cheers - once i get a new chain tool!