SRAM Power Link Hard to Engage?
 

Is it me, or is the power link that comes with SRAM chains hard to snap into position? I've had no problem with Nashbar power links, but the SRAM link I installed yesterday needed some creative use of needle nose pliers to get it to snap into position. If I'd had two people, one to squeeze and one to pull the chain, it would have been easier.

I usually just make sure it's situated then stomp on the pedal (with the wheels on the floor of course) and it only takes a light stomp really.

I reckon you could probably grab some rear brake and blip the pedal with your other hand if you've got it on a stand, never tried that though. EDIT:Now that I think about it, on the stand that would be a 3-hand operation also. Maybe toestrap the rear brake lever shut, then keep the link together with one hand and blip the pedal with the other?

Just make sure it's clean. The only problem I have had when the link was clean was getting it lined up right.

make sure the link is on top where the crank tension is
and not below the chainstay

Yes. The 10 speed SRAM links snap into place and it take a bit force. I position on the top run of chain and pop the pedals forward to snap it in. It also takes a pliers-like tool, to open. Park makes a one. These links may be reused but should be replaced when the chain is replaced. .

And this is the first correct answer of this thread.

Only the upper run of chain will be in tension when you start pedalling. You don't need to stomp anything. Just pedal forward and hold the rear wheel stationary. Will do every 10 speed link with no problem.

Sram official instructions is that 10 speed powerlocks are not to be reused.

Likely some sort of CYA thing. I don't make a habit of removing the chain on a regular basis but I've had no issue at all with undoing it and re-using my Powerlinks a couple of times during the life of a chain when work on the bike calls for taking the chain off.

I've always found that my Powerlinks snapped into place nicely if I pinch the outer plates together firmly while pulling on the chain and slightly flex the links side to side.

Define "reused".

A couple months ago someone who works in a shop related a conversation with a
SRAM rep who told him "reused" means "used with more than one chain".
i.e. it can be opened/closed repeatedly with one chain, but should be discarded
when the chain is worn out.

Excellent. That's been my replacement strategy. Since I haven't bought anything other than a Sram/Sachs/Sedis chain since I dunno when and Srams have been coming with the master links since what 1995?, that makes it pretty easy.