half link question
 

I've never had to use a half link until now. I put it on and it is super tight. I took it on & off a couple times to see if it would loosen up, no go. It's fine and loose until the pin starts to go through last outer plate. Then it just binds up. I put the chain on and spun the cranks a few times. Other than a little hitch in the rotation, it seems alright, but that tight spot bugs me. Is this right?

Try to use the chain tool to loosen the plate. Do it on booth sides of the pin. Use some oil.
http://www.parktool.com/images_inc/repair_help/CT02.jpg

this is super common with chain installation. you have the grab the chain on either side of the tight link and carefully flex the chain laterally back and forth a tiny bit to loosen up the stiff link (don't over do it). check park's maintenance website for photos or youtube has bike videos demonstrating how to do this correctly.