Issues with SRAM Powerlink chain

stevenb

For the life of me, I just can't connect the Powerlink chain together.
I even had to undo it using the KMC missing link tool.
I have made sure I am careful, that I have the chain tension slackened off etc.
I've even tried to connect it off the bike but it's not playing ball.
I'm squeezing the pins correctly as per the You Tube videos too.

Anyone else had this issue? :?
It's a brand new chain on a brand new bike.
I only disconnected to to fit a Rear mech I've just bought.

nicklouse

put it on the top run of the chain. apply the brakes and step on the pedal.

click.

stevenb

Thanks. Such a simple answer....
I didn't want to be too brutal you see.
Thanks for the speedy reply as always.

centimani

Had the same and i had to be stupidly brutal to get it to fasten. Standing on the pedal with brakes applied wasnt enough in my case, i had to use a proper set of pliers and even then it needed brutal force.
The one thing that occured to me at the time, what make was my chain, probably Shimano...is there a slight difference in them, enough to cause this problem.
Again, had the same problem, albeit not so bad with other makes of link, but they do get easier to undo and fasten with a little time.

stevenb

I had the MTB KMC chain off earlier in the day and reconnected that by hand no problem.
I'd also bought a pair of KMC missing link connectors just incase.
I think when my SRAM chain wears out I will certainly replace it with a KMC chain.
I used KMC X10SL chains on both my S-Works & Felt F4 bikes a couple of years back and they were great. No issues.

sungod

are you sure it's a powerlink (9-speed) rather than a powerlock (10-speed)?

the sram powerlock isn't reusable, the high fitting force reflects that, once on, it is supposed to stay there

they can be removed with link pliers but i find this damages the link (but as a fit-once part it is not intended for refitting and maybe won't be as safe/secure, i do not reuse powerlock links!)

the reusable links produced by kmc etc. are designed for easy fitting/removal, so finger power is all it takes

StillGoing

I disagree with that as the one on my KMC chain needed to be forced on using the brake and pedals.

sungod

i've never had to use tools with a reusable kmc link, kmc's instructions say tool free

if you need to use tools then something is wrong, for instance non-reusable kmc links do need tools

nicklouse

philthy3 wrote:

I disagree with that as the one on my KMC chain needed to be forced on using the brake and pedals.

not all KMC are reusable.

stevenb

KMC's missing link tool is only to help undo the link.
I refitted my KMC chain using my hands.

You are right regarding the SRAM chain in that Powerlock is designed to be fitted once from new (after suitable sizing/link removal). However, my chain is new enough for now. I only wanted it on to set up my new rear mech and it's only getting turbo trainer useage until I buy myself a new KMC chain.

SRAM's Powerlink connector is designed to be re-used as stated. In essence then, you can replace the Powerlock with the Powerlink.

nicklouse

stevenb wrote:

SRAM's Powerlink connector is designed to be re-used as stated. In essence then, you can replace the Powerlock with the Powerlink.

no as Sram do NOT make a 10spd Power link.

stevenb

Oh yeah, my bad.
Just re-read CRC's note re links.