installing kmc chain
 

i'm installing this chain on a singlespeed. the only things in the box were a chain and some sort of funky looking link and no manual of any sorts. anyways, the funky thing was some sort of link and was placed in the little bag by itself. is this needed to install the chain? at first i decided to install the chain without it, shortened my chain to the needed size, but ended up getting a pretty stiff link.

It's a master link, allows you to take apart the chain easily. I'd install it...

It's a master link. It isn't required, but is makes removal and installation easier. Just get some needlenose pliers.

hmmm, so how does it exactly install then?

Well, NOT with needlenose pliers. :rolleyes:

The two halves simply fit together, then pull them in opposite directions to lock the link together. It's not that hard to see how it works if you put the two pieces together first.

Disassembly is the opposite. Slightly squeeze the side plates together (without pliers), and at the same time move one side in one direction with your thumb, the other side in the opposite direction with your forefinger.

KMC's single speed master link is a three piece item that requires pliers. You're describing a derailluier chain master link. They aren't the same and aren't interchangable. You link two inner plates together with the male part, slide on the outer plate, then snap on a retaining clip with the pliers.

Dan - sorry. Too early and my fingers were working faster then my brain this morning. :o

Some of the KMC chains use a spring clip (3-piece) master link. Others use a Missing Link (2-piece) master link. Still others use a slotted 2-piece design. And still others use a snap-on 2-piece link.

Instructions for the use of all can be found on KMC's website.

http://www.kmcchain.com/english/index.htm

The website is badly designed and difficult to navigate. Basically you want to get to "Bicycle Chains" and click on "Instructions" near the bottom of the page.

We don't know which KMC chain the OP is talking about. With a SS it could be either, depending on the drivetrain parts.