Bicycle Mechanics - 9-Speed SRAM Chain link ... the removal trick?

What is the trick to take apart a 9 speed SRAM chain link?

I had a Connex chain forever, and the trick there was to get the link into a "Z" shape ... a slight push and the chain would be apart. But evidently that does NOT seem to work for a SRAM chain.

If you've got links to sites with pictures, or pictures to post here, so I can see what's going on, that would be GREAT!! :)

Keep the chain in a straight line, push the connector links together and squeeze the side plates slightly. Seems to work for me.

I made a double ended hook made of stainless welding wire, about the length of one link, then hook into the links either side of the chainlink, then use a pair of circlip pliers (they're just what I have at hand). The hook keeps the chain in place when the chainlink is removed. Also useful for installing chain.

Get the PARK Tool to do the job right!
http://www.parktool.com/products/detail.asp?cat=5&item=MLP%2D1#

Now, I'll admit that I never saw one of these until the Manager showed it to me the other day.
I had been out of the "SHOP" scene long enough to not know about this tool. They work so well.
It is a tool you see or use once and have it down pat. It really makes things easier.

I'll admit it though, it's a little bit more than some folks want to spend for a tool to use a few times a year for the average home mechanic. But I'll be getting one for my tool kit shortly.

Chris

It's simple, all technique. You need zero tension on the chain, moving the links towards each other simultaneouslyly. Takes a bit of practice.

I turned the air blue 2 nights ago trying to remove a KMC master link. I finally got it out using as lot of force as described in post #3, then when it was out I examined it to see why it sometimes work easily and sometimes not at all:

Agree with post #2. The pins and plates are shaped very subtly and they lock together when released. You have to squeeze the plates towards each other before sliding them out.

It's simple, all technique. You need zero tension on the chain, moving the links towards each other simultaneouslyly. Takes a bit of practice.

Ditto.

... Brad

Get the PARK Tool to do the job right!
http://www.parktool.com/products/detail.asp?cat=5&item=MLP%2D1#

It's official. Park Tool now has a tool for everything. :eek:

... Brad

It's official. Park Tool now has a tool for everything. :eek:

... Brad

Arrrgghhh!!! The whole point of the "QUICK DISCONNECT" link is to do it QUCKLY without tools. Well, can't fault a company for trying make a buck. Reminds me of my motorcycle days with those 3 piece snap master links. Really folks, it's like making love to a woman. You just need the right technique and it's a piece of cake .....

It's official. Park Tool now has a tool for everything. :eek:

... Brad

Darn Manager was watching me and I got it apart pretty quick with a technique like the other use here. He then went to the Tool Box and pulled out the Park tool and said "Try This!" Smart ass!

What is the trick to take apart a 9 speed SRAM chain link?

I had a Connex chain forever, and the trick there was to get the link into a "Z" shape ... a slight push and the chain would be apart. But evidently that does NOT seem to work for a SRAM chain.

If you've got links to sites with pictures, or pictures to post here, so I can see what's going on, that would be GREAT!! :)


if you get it into that Z shape (master link is vertical), you can put the thumb and forefinger of one of your hands at the top and bottom of the link (touching the rollers), and with your other hand, squeeze the side-plates together slightly. Apply pressure with the first hand and it should slide apart.

I remember the 9-speeds are really quite tough. You could use a pair of needle-nosed pliers to gently apply pressure across the rollers without impeding side-plate movement, but you'd risk scratching the roller.

I have trouble with the SRAM links, too. My solution is to use Wipperman chains.

Keep the chain in a straight line, push the connector links together and squeeze the side plates slightly. Seems to work for me.

Me too. The key is to squeeze the side plates together, then push the ends in to release.

Me too. The key is to squeeze the side plates together, then push the ends in to release.

This works. I also give the chain a good cleaning first to minimize the "yuck!!" reaction.

Road Fan

Really folks, it's like making love to a woman.

does PARK make a tool for this as well?

I remember the 9-speeds are really quite tough.

No, not really.

I don't want to have to use a tool for this ... first, I don't have one or access to one, and second, if I need to remove my chain at some point on the road (I'm off on a 1-month tour soon), I don't want to have to haul another tool around with me.

I'll give it another try ... I didn't squeeze the side plates together last time. Fingers crossed this works!

No, not really.

+1

Keep the chain in a straight line, push the connector links together and squeeze the side plates slightly. Seems to work for me.

DONE!! :D

That was about the easiest thing I've ever done on my bicycle ... easier than the Connex chain, and definitely NO tools required!

Thank you very much!

DONE!! :D

That was about the easiest thing I've ever done on my bicycle ... easier than the Connex chain, and definitely NO tools required!

Thank you very much!

We told you so. :p :beer: