Bicycle Mechanics - Stiff Link

I don't have a whole lot of experience with Shimano 9-speed chains; my new cyclocross bike is my first. Are they more prone to having stiff links when you break and re-attach? I've never had this problem in the past on any of my 8- 7- or 6-speed bikes [and I don't break the chain on my Campy bike].

I just did a full clean and the chain has an annoyingly loose link. I can't seem to loosen it [much, I've loosened it a bit]. Now that the chain is clean and lubed, witll the link eventually loosen up, or with this problem persist?

grab the section of chain with the stiff link and gently bend it (lateraly) back and forth. sometimes this will seat the pin better.

Thanks, but I did that. In fact, I always do that, anyway. What seems to have done the trick is this: I inserted the blad of a straight screwdriver between the stiff link's plates and gently turned it to VERY slightly spread the plates. The pins seem to be re-seated now.

Nine speed must be more prone to this kind of thing.

I've never had that problem. I think the hyperglide pins are different for 8 speed and 9 speed. Are you sure you had the 9 speed pin?