Hi, if I have a Surly Cross check with a 9 speed cassette, if I order this chain - will it just 'replace' my chain with a minimum of fuss - or do you have to add/remove links, measure, etc?

https://www.amazon.com/SRAM-P-Link-Bi...4899726&sr=8-1

I have a sram quicklink on it now, came with the bike. I like being able to undo it, so I'd like to stay with that.

Most chains are sold with more links than necessary. You'll still need a chain tool to remove the extra links to bring it to the same length as your original chain, even with a quicklink installed.

+1 You will probably have to shorten the new chain. It's really not that difficult. Once you take the old chain off, lay it down in one line. Lay the new chain next to it. It will be obvious how short you need to cut the new chain.

A pin punch and hammer will remove the pin too, it just isn't the best way.

If you do this, get an old chain and practice doing it first. If you haven't done it before, don't practice on your new chain!
Why? Because it's easy to crack or break a link if you punch the tin crooked.

Guys, a chain tool costs 10 bucks.

https://www.amazon.com/Park-Tool-CT-5...dp/B000RZMWE0/

Invest in the right tools. In fact, the CT-5 is small and light: put it in your CamelBak or saddle bag with your other tools, and also carry about 3-5 Power Links. If your chain breaks, replace the broken link with a Power Link.

It's easy to cut the chain to the proper length with a chain tool.
You should measure the chain whenever you have it off for cleaning. When it wears to 1/16" in 12" of chain it's time to replace it. Anything less is waste. Anything more and you begin to destroy the expensive parts.

Speaking of the proper tool -just get a Park CC-3 for $8.66 while you are at buying the CT-5. That way you can just flop the gauge on and know instantly if it is a GO or a NO-GO without having to squint at some silly ruler and get your hands all greasy.

$9 for a special tool, or $0.99 for a pair of latex gloves and a cheap ruler.. hmmm

If you are only going to check your chain once in your life then I think you might be right...

As long as you understand that those guages aren't an accurate measurement of chain wear. They take in the roller wear in only two of them.
If you don't want to get your hands dirty take it to a shop.