Originally posted by miamijim
Every time a chain is dis-assembled the risk of damaging a link is there. Regardless of the mechanisn used to secure the chain, 'power link' (I just love the marketing behind that term), a pin, or master link (power link just sounds tougher doesnt it). There is minimal harm removing a chain with a 'powerlink' but I have seen those fail. Eventually the removable link can get 'loose' and come off with minimal effort.
I've been using Power Link chains for a fair few chains and providing you replace the Power Link when you replace the chain (and you don't remove the chain after every ride) then your chain will certainly wear out before the link does. If you keep reusing a link chain after chain then yes it might wear out, and yes they can fail if not joined properly.
Whilst I wouldn't advocate removing a chain for every clean (I don't think it needs that thoroughness - your mileage may vary) I wouldn't worry about opening a Power Link (SRAM's trademark)every so often. I'm sure the same goes for other Master Link (generic term) chains but don't have personal experience of these to be certain.
Originally posted by miamijim
KISS...Keep It Simple Stupid....when it gets dirty clean it...when you clean it lube it....when it gets dry lube it....when it gets noisy lube it.
Sound advice
