SRAM chain directional + Connex ok?
 

this is a 2 part question.

back when i was using shimano groupset, i recall chains were directional. can't tell if SRAM 1091R (10speed) is directional or not as not marks on there. just wanted to make sure because when i back pedal, the rear cassette will drop to a lower gear. i know now suppose to backpedal.. but never seen that happen before on my road bike with SRAM RED group. this group is the XO.

also, i have an old Wippermann Connex Stainless Link - 10-Speed from my Dura Ace chain that i'd like to use on this SRAM 1091Rh chain. is that ok? i've read some version of Wippermann Connex have different width which may work but a bit loose on the SRAM 1091R chain.

what do you think?

TIA

http://bikeforums.net/attachment.php...hmentid=392540

No, the PC-1091R is not directional AFAIK.

Did you check if your X0 RD is correctly set up? If the cage and pulleys are not aligned with the cog the chain drops to the lower one when you backpedal. Try turning the barrel adjuster and eighth or a quarter of a turn and see if it improves.

I'm using a KMC link on my PC-1091R. Haven't had a problem yet. I don't know about Wipperman though.

Once you use a master link with one chain it should not be transferred to another chain.

+1 Master links wear just like the rest of the chain so a new chain should have a new masterlink. The only exception would be using an old masterlink for an on-road emergency repair. SRAM chains are not directional.

Directional chains are easy enough to spot --- they are asymmetrical, obviously so, either top/bottom (as is a Connex link), or with different inner and outer plates. If you can't see any asymmetry then the chain isn't directional.

There's a sort of exception on pinned chains such as Shimano and Campagnolo because they often specify the position (back or front end of outer plate) and direction of press of the closure pin. So cutting the chain leaving an inner link at one end and outer at the other sets a drive direction. This doesn't apply to chains closed with a connecting link.

Count me among those who consider links to wear with the chains, and so the same link should stay married to the same chain forever (except in an emergency). As to the various widths, if it fits and is the right width, up to a fraction of a mm wider, it's fine. Too narrow binds and stresses the link, so make sure it's a nice easy slip fit when closing.

+1 The SRAM chain should have come with a master link.

it does and it's a PIA to try and remove it by hand when you are out in the open without any tools.

that's why i'm checking to see if i can use my old wippermann from the DA chain to this one.

SRAM's PowerLock connector is meant for one-time use only. Though technically I don't see any difference from KMC/Wipperman master links except for a tighter fit.

Buy a new master link. Do not transfer/reuse an old link.

They become easy to open when they are worn. Here's the tool you need. Park MLP-1.2 Master Link Pliers

This is one of my more recent tool purchases. I love it. It makes the job so easy, and today, I used it to install a pedal dust cap. It's proving to be a very useful thing.