You can not use the old pin once you've removed it. New Shimano chains come with a special bullet shaped pin for this use. But you can buy the pin alone through a number of sources such as Excel Sport and search on "Shimano chain pin." The pin works well, just follow the instructions on my video. Thanks for your interest.
Glad this was useful. Much has changed with the advent of master links that make the whole process easier. And greetings form North America! Regards and safe cycling, Tony
what is that special pin in the second demonstration? any specific name for such a pin? I have to replace my derailleur and my chain has no master link so i need to break it and put it back together. i thought i could put the same pin back in, and maybe i could in an emergency, but one of the blunt ends sheered a little and i don't trust it. plus it's really hard to handle. thanks for making a helpful video
Hi Tony. I'm restoring a 6-speed bike (3 x 6) and I'm torn between using a chain with a quick link (Connex 800/804) or one with a traditional pin connector (Izumi Click Index). My biggest concern is cleaning the chain. It would seem that the quick link one would be superior for the removal/cleaning/re-installation process, but how many times can one safely take off a traditional pin connected chain for removal/cleaning/re-installation? Does one need to use a fresh connecting pin every time? Or can you partially remove the pin to break the chain and then push it back in after cleaning? I kind of want to use a Japanese chain as the drive train is Suntour and it would be a lot cooler :) Do you have any advice?
Sorry for the delay in response. Every time you remove a pin or break the chain and push it back in, the process weakens the chain. In the old days, that's all we had. But with the development of master links, this process now becomes easier and more efficient. I suggest using a "reuseable" master link (KMC has one that will match the speed of your bike and can be used up to 7 removals before having to replace the master link). The Connex link can probable be reused 10 or more times. However, you don't always have to remove the chain for cleaning if you've been riding in relatively dry weather. See out video on weekly maintenance: ua-cam.com/video/vqURwXOm0pw/v-deo.html and our video on master links: ua-cam.com/video/V8JnvlcmyGE/v-deo.html Regards, Tony
Try any of the Park chain tools at Performance Bike. I have the mini-brute (nice compact tools which works) and CT-3 (more expensive but easier to use), both of which do the job.
Once the pin is all the way out, you'll need a master link at the point you split it. I'm not sure why you split it and did not open the KMC master link? This master link can be reused up to 2 times during the life of the chain. There are tools available to help open and close the master link.
Tony Marchand So with the KMC chains that come with masterlink, are there no long bullet-ended rivets produced, if one wished to reconnect the chain Shimano-chain style? Say you wanted to make your KMC chain longer, am I right in saying there is no official way of doing so without using a second masterlink?
The cassette total width for most 9 and 10 speed cassettes are the same so one can put either on the same frame when building or retro-fitting a bike. In order to get more cogs with a 10 speed in that width, the cogs are closer together and, therefore, the chain width for a 10 speed chain is narrower (5.88 to 6.2 mm depending on the chain) vs a 9 speed chain which has a thickness of 6.6 to 6.8 mm. Thus, the chain tools are usually different to accommodate the different thickness.
When removing a pin, I left it sticking out of the outer link, so I could push it back in when I had to put the chain together. Is it ok to do so ? (sram 11s chain)
That's fine. Luckily most chains now come with master links which make the process much easier. See: ua-cam.com/video/V8JnvlcmyGE/v-deo.html&ab_channel=TonyMarchand Regards, Tony
Hi, ive never had to use a long Shimano rivet when reconnecting a tough to split 9/10 speed chain together, i just make sure that i don't push the old rivet out fully when splitting the chain. Then it can be reused and if desired, repeened over with a small hammer against a solid weighty block or anvil. Nice vid.
+simon hare The long Shimano rivet automatically flattens the end of the rivet when the tip is broken off after installation, preventing the rivet from coming out. I recommend the long end rivet use on Shimano chains. However, your technique will work as long as you re-peen with a hammer (one can use a flat end nail driver against the pin which might be better then hitting the pin directly with a hammer). Thanks for the info.
Yes I was. However, a vice won't help me out on the road. For home use, I now use a Park CT- 3.3. See: ua-cam.com/video/W3akzTw5WvE/v-deo.html On the road I use a Crank Brothers F-16 which has the best multi tool chain breaker that we have tested. See: ua-cam.com/video/Qu1T2tZdhdY/v-deo.html Regards, Tony
Thanks for the video - it was a great help - but my chain came with a rivet already in - and it is not long.....How do I do that one ? Or do I remove it and buy a special long Shimano rivet ?
What kind make is the new chain a (manufacturer, 7,8,9,10 speed, model #)? Is is it already the same length as the old chain or do you need to make it shorter? These might help me understand your needs. Thanks, Tony
+lancebrand The Master Link pliers are available through Amazon as well as a number of on-line and local bicycle dealers. They will fit all chain widths. The Park Tool MLP or KMC Opener will open (remove) master links but you will need a KMC Closer Missing Link tool to close (install) a master links. Both opener and closer tools are worth having and, over time, pay for themselves since you can do your own service. I've tried single pliers that supposedly do both jobs, but such pliers just don't work well.
On a chain breaker tool for 9/10/11 speed chains, will it work for an 8 speed chain? I'm looking at buying a multi tool and the best one I can find so far has a 9/10/11 tool. I have an 8 speed and my partner a 9 speed. Will this work for both? Torpedo7 Multi Tool 13
+Shaun de Malmanche (#BringDadHome) 8,9,10 and 11 speed chains all have differing widths (the 11 having the narrowest. Some tools have wide enough spacing to accommodate all of the above. Other tools may have narrowing spacing where you place the chain and may accommodate only narrower chains such as 9, 10 and 11 but not the 8 speed. Check the specs on the chain tool online if you can. I have not yet found information on the Torpedo 7 Multi Tool.
Well taken comment. We have greatly improved our videos in terms of content, picture and pace since this early video was shot. Hopefully you'll see improvement as you follow our videos. Regards Tony
my chain tool has a bolt threaded into it.yours has a v notch,any idea why?,the threaded end of the bolt has a hole drilled into it (to allow the chain pin room to move as its pushed out???)
pro series cycling acessories is the brand name & is made in taiwan:( i broke part of this tool while using it for the first time (the part that the chain sits on) still works ok though. www.proseriescyclingacessories.com.au is their website & currently not available (dns lookup failure)
neil crompton I would consider replacing your chain tool with a Park Tool CT-3.2 Screw Type Chain Tool (about $35) and can be used for 9/10/11 speed bikes. Unfortunately, many of the cheaper tools don't do the job. I've also used a the Park I-Beam (IB-3) mini tools for repairs on the road (about $25).
Here are some other videos that may help you before you tackle the job: ua-cam.com/video/02-WEIVoT78/v-deo.html&ab_channel=TonyMarchand ua-cam.com/video/V8JnvlcmyGE/v-deo.html&ab_channel=TonyMarchand Have fun and safe cycling, Tony
If the pin comes all the way out, you can't get it back in. If you're using a Shimano chain, use the special black connecting pin (comes with new chain and also sold separately). SRAM and a number of others use a "Master Link" to reconnect the chain. Campy has it's own special connector. Pushing a pin part way out and reconnecting is only used for emergency on the road repairs (gets you home where you should replace the chain) or old 1 to 8 speed chains. Safe riding, Tony
Tony Marchand With the Shimano chain, what is the difference between all the other pins and the "special black connecting pin"? Can't you use any pin in the chain to break it?
Your welcome. But now with the advent of master links, things have changed a bit. See: ua-cam.com/video/V8JnvlcmyGE/v-deo.html ua-cam.com/video/-v4u9pkpIns/v-deo.html ua-cam.com/video/W3akzTw5WvE/v-deo.html Regards, Tony
Glad it was helpful. We have other videos on best chain tool and master links as well as chain replacement on our channel if you're interested. Regards. Tony
You can not use the old pin once you've removed it. New Shimano chains come with a special bullet shaped pin for this use. But you can buy the pin alone through a number of sources such as Excel Sport and search on "Shimano chain pin."
The pin works well, just follow the instructions on my video. Thanks for your interest.
This is exactly what I was looking for! Thank you so much. Greetings from Argentina
Glad this was useful. Much has changed with the advent of master links that make the whole process easier. And greetings form North America! Regards and safe cycling, Tony
what is that special pin in the second demonstration? any specific name for such a pin? I have to replace my derailleur and my chain has no master link so i need to break it and put it back together. i thought i could put the same pin back in, and maybe i could in an emergency, but one of the blunt ends sheered a little and i don't trust it. plus it's really hard to handle. thanks for making a helpful video
Tony thanks for sharing. This is a very descriptive video. Awesome.
Hi Tony. I'm restoring a 6-speed bike (3 x 6) and I'm torn between using a chain with a quick link (Connex 800/804) or one with a traditional pin connector (Izumi Click Index). My biggest concern is cleaning the chain. It would seem that the quick link one would be superior for the removal/cleaning/re-installation process, but how many times can one safely take off a traditional pin connected chain for removal/cleaning/re-installation? Does one need to use a fresh connecting pin every time? Or can you partially remove the pin to break the chain and then push it back in after cleaning? I kind of want to use a Japanese chain as the drive train is Suntour and it would be a lot cooler :) Do you have any advice?
Sorry for the delay in response. Every time you remove a pin or break the chain and push it back in, the process weakens the chain. In the old days, that's all we had. But with the development of master links, this process now becomes easier and more efficient. I suggest using a "reuseable" master link (KMC has one that will match the speed of your bike and can be used up to 7 removals before having to replace the master link). The Connex link can probable be reused 10 or more times.
However, you don't always have to remove the chain for cleaning if you've been riding in relatively dry weather. See out video on weekly maintenance:
ua-cam.com/video/vqURwXOm0pw/v-deo.html
and our video on master links:
ua-cam.com/video/V8JnvlcmyGE/v-deo.html
Regards, Tony
my cappy tool doesn't push the shimano rivet all the way in it slips off every time. anyone have some advice?
Try any of the Park chain tools at Performance Bike. I have the mini-brute (nice compact tools which works) and CT-3 (more expensive but easier to use), both of which do the job.
This is the very best - and, in fact, excellent !!! - video on this topic that I have seen so far. Thanks a lot!
Can I reconnect KMC chain without master link? I have splitted it not at the master link place and the pin is out. Or will I need another master link?
Once the pin is all the way out, you'll need a master link at the point you split it. I'm not sure why you split it and did not open the KMC master link? This master link can be reused up to 2 times during the life of the chain. There are tools available to help open and close the master link.
Tony Marchand
So with the KMC chains that come with masterlink, are there no long bullet-ended rivets produced, if one wished to reconnect the chain Shimano-chain style? Say you wanted to make your KMC chain longer, am I right in saying there is no official way of doing so without using a second masterlink?
Thank you . This video is informative. I am now able to shorten my bike chain. Mission accomplished.
Glad it worked well. Regards, Tony
Hey Tony, thanks for the video! It helped me a lot.
A chain is a chain, if it is too long, it will be just slack.
so what is the difference between 9 and 10 speed?
The cassette total width for most 9 and 10 speed cassettes are the same so one can put either on the same frame when building or retro-fitting a bike. In order to get more cogs with a 10 speed in that width, the cogs are closer together and, therefore, the chain width for a 10 speed chain is narrower (5.88 to 6.2 mm depending on the chain) vs a 9 speed chain which has a thickness of 6.6 to 6.8 mm. Thus, the chain tools are usually different to accommodate the different thickness.
Tony Marchand
Many thanks.
thanks that realy helped
I have a 6 speed chain. Can I use one of these cheap chain tool for it?
Yes as far as I know
When removing a pin, I left it sticking out of the outer link, so I could push it back in when I had to put the chain together. Is it ok to do so ? (sram 11s chain)
That's fine. Luckily most chains now come with master links which make the process much easier. See:
ua-cam.com/video/V8JnvlcmyGE/v-deo.html&ab_channel=TonyMarchand
Regards, Tony
Very thorough, thank you for making this!
Hi, ive never had to use a long Shimano rivet when reconnecting a tough to split 9/10 speed chain together, i just make sure that i don't push the old rivet out fully when splitting the chain. Then it can be reused and if desired, repeened over with a small hammer against a solid weighty block or anvil. Nice vid.
+simon hare The long Shimano rivet automatically flattens the end of the rivet when the tip is broken off after installation, preventing the rivet from coming out. I recommend the long end rivet use on Shimano chains. However, your technique will work as long as you re-peen with a hammer (one can use a flat end nail driver against the pin which might be better then hitting the pin directly with a hammer). Thanks for the info.
Looks like you having a hard time there buddy. Next time try using a vice...
Yes I was. However, a vice won't help me out on the road. For home use, I now use a Park CT- 3.3. See:
ua-cam.com/video/W3akzTw5WvE/v-deo.html
On the road I use a Crank Brothers F-16 which has the best multi tool chain breaker that we have tested. See:
ua-cam.com/video/Qu1T2tZdhdY/v-deo.html
Regards, Tony
Thanks for the video - it was a great help - but my chain came with a rivet already in - and it is not long.....How do I do that one ? Or do I remove it and buy a special long Shimano rivet ?
What kind make is the new chain a (manufacturer, 7,8,9,10 speed, model #)? Is is it already the same length as the old chain or do you need to make it shorter? These might help me understand your needs. Thanks, Tony
Hello i have a question; is the master lynx tool for any size chain .. i have a gas/ pocket bike ? and where can i purchase one?
+lancebrand The Master Link pliers are available through Amazon as well as a number of on-line and local bicycle dealers. They will fit all chain widths. The Park Tool MLP or KMC Opener will open (remove) master links but you will need a KMC Closer Missing Link tool to close (install) a master links. Both opener and closer tools are worth having and, over time, pay for themselves since you can do your own service. I've tried single pliers that supposedly do both jobs, but such pliers just don't work well.
excellent thanks
Moy MacGill - You're welcome. Regards, Tony
On a chain breaker tool for 9/10/11 speed chains, will it work for an 8 speed chain? I'm looking at buying a multi tool and the best one I can find so far has a 9/10/11 tool. I have an 8 speed and my partner a 9 speed. Will this work for both? Torpedo7 Multi Tool 13
+Shaun de Malmanche (#BringDadHome) 8,9,10 and 11 speed chains all have differing widths (the 11 having the narrowest. Some tools have wide enough spacing to accommodate all of the above. Other tools may have narrowing spacing where you place the chain and may accommodate only narrower chains such as 9, 10 and 11 but not the 8 speed. Check the specs on the chain tool online if you can. I have not yet found information on the Torpedo 7 Multi Tool.
+Shaun de Malmanche (#BringDadHome) www.chainreactioncycles.com/ie/en/park-tool-folding-chain-tool-ct-6-3/rp-prod110996
With your tutorial, I am able to break the chain and install master link properly.
talk slower
Well taken comment. We have greatly improved our videos in terms of content, picture and pace since this early video was shot. Hopefully you'll see improvement as you follow our videos. Regards Tony
my chain tool has a bolt threaded into it.yours has a v notch,any idea why?,the threaded end of the bolt has a hole drilled into it (to allow the chain pin room to move as its pushed out???)
pro series cycling acessories is the brand name & is made in taiwan:( i broke part of this tool while using it for the first time (the part that the chain sits on) still works ok though.
www.proseriescyclingacessories.com.au is their website & currently not available (dns lookup failure)
neil crompton I would consider replacing your chain tool with a Park Tool CT-3.2 Screw Type Chain Tool (about $35) and can be used for 9/10/11 speed bikes. Unfortunately, many of the cheaper tools don't do the job. I've also used a the Park I-Beam (IB-3) mini tools for repairs on the road (about $25).
ok thx for your help (thumbs up)
Excellent demo! I'm ready to tacke this job now.
Here are some other videos that may help you before you tackle the job:
ua-cam.com/video/02-WEIVoT78/v-deo.html&ab_channel=TonyMarchand
ua-cam.com/video/V8JnvlcmyGE/v-deo.html&ab_channel=TonyMarchand
Have fun and safe cycling, Tony
Tony thanks your instruction made it easy to do the job.
Practice makes for a job well done. Regards, Tony
putting the pin is one of the most irritating thing on this reality we call earth...seriously so irritating
If the pin comes all the way out, you can't get it back in. If you're using a Shimano chain, use the special black connecting pin (comes with new chain and also sold separately). SRAM and a number of others use a "Master Link" to reconnect the chain. Campy has it's own special connector. Pushing a pin part way out and reconnecting is only used for emergency on the road repairs (gets you home where you should replace the chain) or old 1 to 8 speed chains. Safe riding, Tony
Perhaps that's my problem.. Got em back in a few times before on KMC chains but this time is a no go.. Thanks!!
Tony Marchand
With the Shimano chain, what is the difference between all the other pins and the "special black connecting pin"? Can't you use any pin in the chain to break it?
Excellent presentation.
You're Welcome. Also visit our UA-cam home site at:
ua-cam.com/users/MrTony10speed
Regards and safe cycling, Tony
very nice .
where can i buy the tools
From Amazon or your local bicycle dealer. See:
ua-cam.com/video/W3akzTw5WvE/v-deo.html
Regards, Tony
awesome
Very well done video
I hope the tips are useful. Thanks for the compliment. Regards, Tony
any vice will do the trick won't it?
+Anthony Steele Only if you want to destroy your chain!
Thanks a lot man.
Excellent thanks !
Your welcome. But now with the advent of master links, things have changed a bit. See:
ua-cam.com/video/V8JnvlcmyGE/v-deo.html
ua-cam.com/video/-v4u9pkpIns/v-deo.html
ua-cam.com/video/W3akzTw5WvE/v-deo.html
Regards, Tony
Great tutorial
Glad it was helpful. We have other videos on best chain tool and master links as well as chain replacement on our channel if you're interested. Regards. Tony
where can i buy one
not walmart broke it before undoing the rivet
you are changing a few links how doe it take sooo long?
hes an elderly maby thas why I dunu
I'm going slow so you can get a feel for how the tool works. Once you get the hang of it, it's quick!