Bicycle Mechanics - Master link on a Shimano chain

I've recently purchased a Shimano chain (8 speed, not installed on the bike yet), and have wanted to install a master link on it due to the fact that apparently, a special pin is required to un-break the chain after every time you break it; installing the chain correctly the first time around seems hard enough, I can't imagine following the process through a few times more :twitchy: . I've looked through Amazon (ordering there since i'm picking up a few other things, figured why not get something else there), but I can't find anything other than dimensions on the "master links" there; what size would be compatible with a shimano 8 speed chain? Is it even advisable to put a master link onto a shimano chain?

Thanks in advance :)

SRAM masterlinks for their 8-speed chains will work. So will the Conex link sold by Wippermann for their 8-speed chain but these are hard to find.

SRAM masterlinks for their 8-speed chains will work. So will the Conex link sold by Wippermann for their 8-speed chain but these are hard to find.

Thanks; Another question...

Will any chain tool work for installing the master link? How about the special pin system that Shimano has on their chains? (The instruction manual says use a shimano compatible chain tool, but it seems like any chain tool would work and they're just plugging their brand).

Thanks; Another question...

Will any chain tool work for installing the master link? How about the special pin system that Shimano has on their chains? (The instruction manual says use a shimano compatible chain tool, but it seems like any chain tool would work and they're just plugging their brand).

The master links don't require a tool to install. Most chain tools are Shimano compatible (don't think Shimano actually seels any chain tools).

I have used Shimano 8s *IG* chains with SRAM Powerlinks.
I have heard, (but cannot confirm), that *HG* chains are too wide.

Thanks; Another question...

Will any chain tool work for installing the master link? How about the special pin system that Shimano has on their chains? (The instruction manual says use a shimano compatible chain tool, but it seems like any chain tool would work and they're just plugging their brand).


You'll need the chain tool to remove links to size the new chain to the correct length. However, with a master link (like SRAM's), you won't need a chain tool to install the master link. LIkewise when breaking the chain in the future, you won't need a chain tool. The instructions recommend a "Shimano compatible" chain tool, and not saying to use a Shimano manufactured chain tool. Shimano does make chain tools, but you'll find oodles of other brands which should work fine with the chain.

Hi, I am not an expert just did it a short time ago.
I used a missing link from KMC. Just need tool to broke the chain (on the right place) and after to close it and open nothing else.
Work perfectly. See advantage that can open and close any time the chain.
losi