Removing Chain

[Sebastian]

So I was trying to remove my chain to clean it the other day and did not notice a removable link. Is there a certain way I am supposed to take the chain off? Buy a better chain?? I am also worrried about breaking it at the Travers and not being able to re-assemle it.

[dubjay]

I'm guessing it's a Shimano chain? If it is, you'll need a chain tool to press one of the pins out.

When you go to re-assemble it, you'll need a new Shimano pin (they are not re-usable) or you can just put in a SRAM Powerlink so removal is easier next time.

[Sebastian]

Thats the wierd thing, I tried using that tool to push a pin out, and it just bent the tool. Was there a master pin I was supposed to see? Maybe just a cheap tool? I bought in a set with a box at REI.

[dubjay]

Originally Posted by Sebastian

Thats the wierd thing, I tried using that tool to push a pin out, and it just bent the tool. Was there a master pin I was supposed to see? Maybe just a cheap tool? I bought in a set with a box at REI.

You should be able to press out any pin. There is no master pin. That's just odd - maybe it is just a cheap tool?

[Sebastian]

I am thinking the same thing. I am going to buy a new tool.

[dubjay]

Originally Posted by Sebastian

I am thinking the same thing. I am going to buy a new tool.

Just to be sure - you're trying to push one of the pins like this?

[Sebastian]

Well, I might actually have put the chain on the first setting rather than laid it flat against the back like you shown. (I cant really remember) Maybe it WAS my bad. Either way, gotta buy a new tool!

[Rawhead]

I would suggest purchasing a chain cleaning kit. No need to take the chain off the bike just to clean it:

http://www.performancebike.com/shop/...slisearch=true

[Sebastian]

Thanks for the suggestion. I will probably end up doing that too. I would lke to have a chain tool in my pack incase my chain bust too.

[LoisMustDie]

...good idea to have a new chain for big races.

[Abui]

Originally Posted by LoisMustDie

...good idea to have a new chain for big races.

But break it in two weeks early.

[Sebastian]

Well I was thinking more like bringing a couple links so you can repair the chain on the trail. I would imagine a chain to be somewhat heavy.

[hoovermd]

Originally Posted by Sebastian

So I was trying to remove my chain to clean it the other day and did not notice a removable link. Is there a certain way I am supposed to take the chain off? Buy a better chain?? I am also worrried about breaking it at the Travers and not being able to re-assemle it.

I highly recommend that you install a Wipperman link as this is a tool-less master link.

I use 'em on all my SS bikes and they are sweet.
I also carry a chain breaker in my pack along with an extra Wipperman and a sort length of matching chain

IMHO, chain cleaning is overrated. Factory lube is da Bomb, but BoeShield is good too.
Ride it, wipe it, lube it.
Let it sit a day and wipe it again.
Replace it when it looks like it has stretched.

[andygua]

Originally Posted by dubjay

You should be able to press out any pin. There is no master pin. That's just odd - maybe it is just a cheap tool?

There are certain shimano chains that have only one pin that can be pressed out (well, not sure if it's only one, but am sure that not all of them can be and it's a big pain looking for "the" one). I had one of that chains and learned this the hard way...bent my tool, took it to the lbs, the guy couldn't do it with their big tool and then an experienced guy jumped in and illuminated us...
Just roll through the chain and look for one pin-head that's completely flat (the rest will have a little "hump"...dunno how to call it )...push that as much as necessary to remove the inner plate (never push it all the way, otherwise you'll have to get a new chain since it's the only pin that can be pushed )

Guess why that chain is no longer in my bike

Good luck!

[slowSSer]

Originally Posted by hoovermd

I highly recommend that you install a Wipperman link as this is a tool-less master link.

I use 'em on all my SS bikes and they are sweet.
I also carry a chain breaker in my pack along with an extra Wipperman and a sort length of matching chain

IMHO, chain cleaning is overrated. Factory lube is da Bomb, but BoeShield is good too.
Ride it, wipe it, lube it.
Let it sit a day and wipe it again.
Replace it when it looks like it has stretched.

master link- absolutely-

i agree with all that you've said here except that last sentence- get a chain stretch tool/gauge.

here's the worst part- if your chain and drivetrain have all stretched/worn together, a new chain is going to cause more issues-

example: stretched chain and cogs/chainrings with flatspots in the "valley" have all worn in together. a new chain (not stretched) with the older worn gears is going to be a nightmare.