quick link type
 

So I was going to take the chain on my recumbent when I encountered what I *think* is some kind of quick link, but I can't identify it.

The closest thing I found showed someone popping off the plate with a screw driver, but I'm assuming it can't be re-used.

If that's the case, I was just going to use one of the KMC missing links that I bought.

So, is this actually a quick link of some type? If so, is it re-usable? And how do I get it off / put it on? Or should I just use the missing link anyway?

Here's a picture:

http://bikeforums.net/attachment.php...hmentid=453411

One of my early 8spd bent chains had this type of double pin removable link. They have been replaced by the single pin links. Remove
the double pin link mechanically either with a chain tool or pop it off and replace it with the single pin type appropriate to
your chain.

I suspect the replacement of the chain is overdue, a New KMC chain will come with a easier to use Connector link
5,6,7,8 all use the same chain width..

the Park Tool, Master link Pliers Park Tool Co. » MLP-1.2 : Master Link Pliers : Chain is to squeeze the rollers of 2 inside links together .

That is how the current connectors open easily, the opposite of the tension on the chain moving the bike forward..

This is basically a cheap version of a quick link. To remove you just flex the link towards the removable sideplate and you will be able to pull it off without tools. Having used a similar but higher quality version of this my experience was that after removing and replacing the link several times to clean the chain the flexing link would become weak and tended to break before the chain was worn. What you have is great for emergencies though and if your lucky may last the life of the chain.

Thanks for the information. I'll take that link off and use the quick links I have. I bought the recumbent used, but the chain still measured good. I suspect it was used very little by the previous owner.

Not quite. Current "8-speed" chains can be used with everything from 5 to 8 cog freewheels/cassettes but there were wider 5 and 6-speed chains in the past that won't work with an 8-speed master link.

Full Bushing 3/32nd" chains are now sold as being for IGH.. with the pins sticking up proud above the outside of the link plate

I can Use a Chain Tool to close the Loop , I got a 3/32nd" wide half link I use that as a place to open the chain at the same spot .

By not being Bent sideways there is little chance the pin will come out..

BITD, that was the type of chain the Pros races on, With 6 speed Freewheels .



Now Bushingless chains have flush Pins, that are best left as they were Produced in the chain Making Machine..