OK so how about some old news being posted again. Shimano chains come with a pin semi-installed at one end and intended to be used to install the chain. Of course this can only be done if you're smart enough to shorten the chain from the other end. The master pin supplied with the kit is intended to be a spare in case at some point after the installation you wish to break and re-install the same chain.

Not 'just my opinion' - you can email Shimano and get the same information.

The only Shimano chain I have right now is a 9 speed Dura Ace and there is no pin semi-installed. Perhaps this was done when Shimano transitioned to 8 speed chains, but I don't think you'll find it happening now.

Bummer.

The new replacement chain that just came in for my Rans Stratu a K9000 came with the replaceable link included. I can see why as the link pins in the chain has really large flairs. In fact I had to remove the pins from each end to get rid of the outside side plates. These pins were very hard to remove as the flange had to break off to get the pin out. In no way could I see if one of those pins were reused would the chain be as reliable as it was. I have been using the removeable links since 2005 and they work without any trouble at all. They make it easy to remove the chain for cleaning. One other small advantage is they make a start and stop place when oiling the chain. I carry a new replaceable link in case of breakage on my bike or who I might be riding with.

I agree that Shimano appears to have dropped the semi-installed pin after 8-speed. I have a new HG-70 (8-speed) chain and a CN-6600 (10-speed) chain in my parts box right now. The HG-70 has the semi-installed pin plus one spare in the package. The CN-6600 has no semi-installed pin but two full length joining pins in the package.

As to shortening a chain from the wrong end and removing the semi-installed pin, yep it can happen.

Ok, back to the 1st post, you said it was an IGH, single speed drive train ,
so chain is not not shifted sideways.

what chain did you buy? in that situation ,
I long for old fashioned full bushing chains.

The pins are long enough to stand proud above the outer side plates,
though [Other than 1/8"]
the 3/32" wide are hard to find..

would have to supervise your work personally..

I have taken several summer long Bike tours, abroad..
3 by 6 or 7 speed freewheel drive train,
Sedis-sport chains, (the origin of the bushingless chain design)
[Fichtel Sachs partner, now part of the sram conglomerate,
(unless thrown overboard like Malliard) ]
and I closed the loop , like the OP, with the chain tool. they seem to be fine..

Maybe the chain chosen was not the better one for the application? ..
or the joining had some shortcoming ..

I have to find a couple replacements for the Whipperman full bush chains
I got from Harris .. what was a small older stock supply..
I joined them with a KMC half-link.
1 on my Brompton, [3/32"/ 2mm thick cog], 1 on my Rohloff hub..


They have been on there a couple years .. wish I could find more
Full bushing chains for derailleur bikes went out with the 70's~mid 80's,
with the Cog Board, when 'speed count' replaced gear ratios as important considerations.

I may have to go to 1/8" next..