Master Link Problems

Hello all,

I have recently replaced the sprockets and chain on my bike. I purchased a RK X ring chain, but don't have any way of installing the Master Link. Does anyone know of a place to get a cheap rivet too? Has anyone tried using a ball pean hammer etc?

 

I used a set of needle-nosed vice grips to compress the side plates against the x-rings to allow the spring clip sufficient engagement on the pins. Apply the compression at the center of the link plate and first slide the closed end of the spring clip in place around the leading pin. Carefully release the compression and rotate the spring clip into position over the back pin. Apply the grips on the back of the link plates a second time and pop the spring clip into position with a flat blade screwdriver. Let it sit for 15 minutes and make sure the rubber x-rings have expanded back out and filled any gaps. If everything looks good and the spring clip has not popped off, you have it right and it is time to ride.

 

Dennis Kirk (denniskirk.com) sells a chain riviting tool. p/n 28-350 It's a little pricey at $98.99, but it's a heck of a lot better than losing a chain at 70 MPH. This one is for riviting a chain together to form an endless chain.
If you only need to press on the plate for the clip to go on, the p/n is 28-454 It is only $24.99.

 

quick fix

I just ran into this same problem a few weeks ago. I ordered and x-ring chain and it came with the rivet type connector and I had no way to intall it. I went to my motorcycle repair shop and talked to the head mechanic. He told me to just order a clip type master link for about $5.00 from Dennis Kirk. He said they always swap the rivet types for the clip type because you can remove it if you need to take the chain off down the road, and they are much easier to install. He told me they do this on all bikes from Harleys to GSX1300's and theyve never had any problems. Just make sure you get same size link(510,520,530) with the same type of rings (x, o) hope this helps

 

Well, I found my problem. They sent me the master rivet link for a 530 chain, but the back plate was for a 520 (or so my honda shop tells me). I was curious how it was going to fit as the holes in the plate were as small as the pins coming out of the master link. Either way, I think I'm going to order a clip style master link and see how it works. Thanks for your help.

 

If you get an extra clip for your tool kit, you'll have it for if/when you lose the clip. At least that was standard practise when I used a clip master link on my bike with pedals. ;-)