Old 05-10-16 | 01:07 PM
  #10  
HillRider
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Joined: Aug 2005
Posts: 33,657
Likes: 1,119
From: Pittsburgh, PA

Bikes: '96 Litespeed Catalyst, '05 Litespeed Firenze, '06 Litespeed Tuscany, '20 Surly Midnight Special, All are 3x10. It is hilly around here!

Installing a chain with any master link does not require tools. Size the chain to the correct length leaving two male ends facing each other. Install the master link and mate the halves being sure the pins are engaged on both sides. Turn the crank backwards if needed to place the master link on the top run of the chain with one pedal forward in the 3:00 o'clock position. Lock the rear brake and step on the forward pedal to close the link completely.

Removal of most master links is much easier with the proper pliers. I've found Wipperman's Connex links are hand removable but KMC and SRAM links are too tight to remove with out the pliers.

I don't share cyccommute's distain for Shimano's joining pins but they do require some technique to install properly and are not removable.

Edit: One more thing. Since you have no idea how many miles are on the original chain and cassette, don't be surprised if the new chain skips on the old cassette, particularly in some of the middle and smaller cogs. You may need to change the cassette along with the chain.

Last edited by HillRider; 05-10-16 at 01:11 PM.
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