Mountain Biking - frustrated with chains !

using Sram chains because the powerlink is so convienient..

I can use the chain tool to take links off, but I have been unable to add links !? seems when I add a link the link is stiff if I put the pin equally through the holes... I guess you shud be able to add links - right ? what am I doing wrong ?

Also when out on rides, do I just need a power link and use that if the chian snaps rather than trying to fit a spare link ?

Adding links can be tedious work. I try to not take too many out in the first place.

When out on rides, you can often just use an extra powerlink to replace a fragged section. You may have to lengthen the hain when you get home, but it beats walking.

It can be done and I have done it but in general I won't lengthen a chain. I don't trust them once a pin has been removed and then reinstalled.

A tight link is always a problem when putting a chain back together or adding links.

The thing to do is the grab the chain with both hands on either side of the stiff link. Then put your thumbs on the link on either side and bend the chain laterally (Side to side), a few times. This will put sideways pressure on the stiff link and spread it open a little. This should solve your problems.

Backpedal and watch the lower jockey pulley to see if the chain is still stiff as it goes through the derailleur. If it is, repeat the process.

I agree with a2psyklnut, this is the way to loosen a sticky chain.

Sam

I'm sorry, but I disagree with both of you. There are two places on a chain tool where the chain can rest. One of them supports the outside of the chain farthest from the pin-pusher. The other supports the inside of the link plate that is nearest the pin-pusher. When you put a chain together, use the furthest one and get the pin installed. Then you will notice that it is a little tight. Unscrew the pusher until you can fit the chain in the nearer slot and tighten it down just barely enough to loosen the link to make it useable.

If you bend the chain back and forth, who's to say you get it bent back perfectly straight? If it's not perfectly straight, then shifting will be comprimised.:D

Yep, use the chain tool to add/remove the rivets and to slacken off a tight link.
Parktools website has further details.
Rivets can be weakend by excessive removal but one or twice is no problem at all.
A spare powerlink is good for field repairs to a snapped chain

try a wipperman stainless steel chain with the conX link - a bit more expensive, but they tend NOT to snap, and the conX link enables repeated removal without weakening anything. You can take your chain off to wash it, and they don't rust. I have found that the prices usually come down in late fall, making them an excellent x-mas present (@$40).