Bicycle Mechanics - Chain tool always makes chain link so tight. Why?

So I attach my new Shimano 9 speed chain using my Park chain tool. For some reason, when the link is pushed in, the chain link is very tight. It's tight to the point that it does not move feely.

Any suggestions?

Thx!

When the connect pin is installed, it presses the plates together. Ensure the pin is pressed in so that it protrudes evenly on both sides. Relieve tension on the chain by flexing it laterally. This should do the trick - if not, use the tool to re-center the pin.

......this is normal...... just push the pin back in only so slightly from the reverse side, but this time with the chain tool supporting the link on the inner plates only.... hope this makes sense. Or just carefully 'bend' that portion of the chain where the stiff link is using your hands.......that always seem to work for me.

Consider SRAM, their snapon connectors make chain install and removal easy. You may have to remove a few links from the new chain but after that it is easy. Check out the Park tool site on chain removal/replacement for the hints needed, a pix is worth a few paragraphs of explanation on loosening tight links. Steve

A quick release power link is the way to go. Then you don't have to mess with a chain tool. Sram and other chain manufacturers offer them.

When you do need to use a chain tool, there is a position for pushing the rivet in, and another for relieving the tightness. Check the Park Tools website for illustrations.

i used to have the same problem... but apparently on the chain tool there are two slots, one for removing pin, one for pushing pin in. i was using the wrong slot...

Originally posted by Resident
When the connect pin is installed, it presses the plates together. Ensure the pin is pressed in so that it protrudes evenly on both sides. - if not, use the tool to re-center the pin. Relieve tension on the chain by flexing it laterally. This should do the trick

Flexing the chain laterally is good advice. It is almost mandatory when re-linking a chain with a chain tool.

Originally posted by trmcgeehan
A quick release power link is the way to go. Then you don't have to mess with a chain tool. Sram and other chain manufacturers offer them.

Takes about 5 minutes to reconnect the links. Regular several dollars chain tool. I actually enjoy doing it.
By the way, 5 minutes with washing hands in between. :D

As others have pointed out, there are two slot positions on chain tools. Until a knowledgeable cyclist enlightened me as to the plate stress-relief function of the second slot, I was always resorting to link flexing to free up the seizure. I don't need to do that now.

The Park chain tool comes with a manual. Read it, and it will tell you exactly how you solve your problem.