Advice on chain powerlink connectors for Shimano chain

hard-rider

I've been reading that a lot of people remove their chains for cleaning.

I have a Shimano HG53 chain which doesn't appear to have anything like a powerlink in it. I've looked on CRC but can only find SRAM powerlinks and no Shimano equivalents. Is the SRAM one compatible with the Shimano HG53 chain?

I also spotted a Shimano chain connector pin on CRC. Is this to replace the pin you remove when you break a chain? Is it always necessary to replace the pin? If so I guess I better get myself a couple of spares.

The Northern Monkey

Sram is fine

hard-rider

OK. Do I need only one powerlink or do they wear and require regular replacing? Also, is it worth getting the Shimano chain connector pins.

piker

One powerlink should last the life of a chain,you dont need new pins with a powerlink.

hard-rider

Ok thanks

AndyTheRocketeer

Make sure when you buy 1 powerlink that it's not the place that rips you off by selling you just the 1 half-plate

Buy a 3-pack (3 pairs of halfplates), and keep the other 2 in backpack. They're really handy when your chain snaps in the middle of nowhere! (need a multitool with a chain tool though to remove the knackered bit)

Never used SRAM powerlinks with Shimano myself, but I hear they work fine.

Radioactiveman

SRAM Powerlink work great with a shimano, much easier than those crazy shimano pins. Also handy having a couple in the camlebak in case you or a riding buddy snaps a chain.

stubs

Chainreaction are doing 3 pairs for £3.99 at the moment ordered a pack last week

Make sur you get the right colour Gold for 9 speed chain Silver for 8 speed

hard-rider

Thanks for the heads up on getting the 3 pack. I'll order that on Monday. My previous order from CRC has been delayed due to the flights in the UK being grounded