Stiff Link Question: how stiff is too stiff?
 

This is the first time I have done this...

Replaced a chain today and used the chain tool on my Crank Brothers multitool to do it. Probably not the best tool, but the tool function looked about the same as the smallest Park tool.

Once I started putting it together, the link was stiff. I went to the other side and moved the pin a quarter turn. It was stiffer...anyway...I went back and forth a few times and got it in there pretty good. It looked like the link was centered very well when compared to the other pins and links and it is only -slightly- stiffer than the other links, but would definitely turn. It didn't look funny when going around the crank or cog.

So here is my question: is the link always a bit stiff? If it causes any problems, I guess I can always replace that link with another or with the master link. Rather than drive the pin in and out a dozen or so more times, I just decided to roll with what I had. I didn't find any noise while pedaling.

I found a lot of threads about a stiff link, but didn't find anything about what a link should feel like when finished.

Thanks for help.

It should feel like every other link in the chain.

I don't know about the particular tool you're using, but most have 2 areas for driving in the pin. One is where the link is pushed against something, and one where it 'floats.' You should use the floating section to adjust the pin once it's in and get the link moving freely.

It's probably ok. It should loosen up after a few miles.
If you are riding fixed and are worried about the integrity of the chain, ride with a front brake if you aren't already.

The pin goes all the way through and the sides are straight. I will pick up a real chain tool next time I see one.

I ride with a brake already, but thanks.

my general rule of thumb is that after the stiff link rolls around the cog, if it doesn't straighten back out on the return trip to the chainring (i.e. there is a visible bend in the link) then it's too stiff.

I have a chain with a stiff link but I am too cheap to go out and replace it. I mean, it is a BRAND NEW chain ... so I was irritated when I found the stiff link. But whatever ... I doubt it will kill me at this point.

I just put together a chain a few minutes ago with my Park chain tool, and I had a stiff link once it was back together. I stuck a flathead screwdriver in the link and turned it just enough to put some pressure on the plates and spread them enough so the link is no longer tight...worked perfect for me.

Had this problem after installing a half link recently, I was advised to flex the chain laterally at the tight spot back & forth to loosen up the link. Worked beautifully. There's a page on Park Tools website about it too.

that's what I've always done as well

My first time using a half-link, it was stiff. After an "Uh, wtf?" moment of moving it back and forth, it loosened up. It'll loosen up.

nah dont ride it, its dangerous to ride with a stiff chain cuz you could drop it if youre going fast. what you have to do is put it in the chain tool like you would to push the pin out but just hit the link with a hammer/wrench whatever around the links. old trick my bmx buddy taught me and works like a charm

for those with stiff links: look up how to use the chain tool, if you don't know why that inner tab for the chain is. . . well, look it up

The problem with my chain is that the link itself is defective. I could replace it ... just haven't gotten around to it yet.

Bingo.

I've been using that technique since my old BMX days.

Same here.

OP, grab the chain and bend the chain back and forth (in the direction it's not supposed to bend). If the stiff link is in the middle, it'll loosen up quick.

Finally got back to the bike. Working it laterally back and forth did the trick.
Thanks for the help.