Replacing the Chain

Discussion in 'Mechanics Garage' started by KC-10 FE, Sep 4, 2005.

  1. KC-10 FE

    KC-10 FE New Member

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    Due to the absolutely criminal prices the dealers around here want, I would like to remove & replace the chain on my VFR myself.  The sprockets are no sweat.  It shouldn't take more than 20 minutes to do so.  I've never replaced a motorcycle chain before.  I have a mechanical background and I'm usually pretty good with tools.  What do I need other than the new chain & sprockets?  Are there any differences between all the chain tools on the market?

    Thanks
     
    KC-10 FE, Sep 4, 2005


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  2. Echolynch

    Echolynch New Member

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    KC-10 FE,

    How did this go? Did you replace your chain and sprocket?

    Thanks!
     
    Echolynch, Oct 7, 2006


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  3. reg71

    reg71 Poser Staff Member

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    Yeah, I am at this point myself. I'm trying to decide whether to do it myself or to take it to my dealer. They usually are just too high for me.
     
    reg71, Jul 8, 2007


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  4. SLOVFR

    SLOVFR Member

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    You need a rivet tool to put the master link back on. You can cut off the old one with a die grinder
     
    SLOVFR, Jul 8, 2007


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  5. mello dude

    mello dude Administrator

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    Its really not that hard. I bought a cheap cut off wheel that goes on the drill and just buzzed the chain off from the bottom center location right down the middle of the side plates. (They are not as hard as the rivets). Total time for this? 30 seconds. With the chain on the floor, follow your manual for the spocket replacements. Now to get the new chain on you will need a high quality rivit setter for the new master link. My local shop let me borrow theirs.
    The trick to get the new chain on is to loop it over the new sprockets so that the mating links are on about the 2 oclock position on the rear for the new master link to slip in. (Of course loosen the bikes chain adjuster for some slack.) Add the new side plate for the master link and with the rivit tool set it to the dimension recommended in your manual.
    - Directions are a tic abbreviated but there - its not that hard..your done.

    - Something else, I heard that your are not supposed to use a master link with a spring slip on lock thing. I never have but I dont remember why.

    - Oh yeah, this may end up like an oil thread. but chains are like you get what you pay for. Cheap chain - low life. Quality chain - good life.

    MD
     
    mello dude, Jul 8, 2007


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  6. possum2082

    possum2082 New Member

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    if you go with a chain that has a push on clip on master link...i know the purests and westcoasters hate me...all you need is a c clamp and a dee socket...get each side in, use a plier to slip on the clip...bam!

    good luck, however you go
     
    possum2082, Jul 15, 2007


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  7. DGW

    DGW New Member

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    I have replaced a chain and it was pretty easy. I used my trusty Sawzall with a metal blade to cut the old chain it went like butter. I bought a chain rivet tool from Cycle Gear for about 100 dollars, I figure I'll have it for the rest of my riding Days.
     
    DGW, Jul 15, 2007


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  8. RVFR

    RVFR Member

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    Yep Die grinder took mine off in a jiffy, trick is making sure you have the right rivet tool. no biggie here either, borrowed one, but I can see that being a big deal as the one I borrowed is like $130 from R-K
     
    RVFR, Jul 15, 2007


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  9. eddievalleytrailer

    eddievalleytrailer Member

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    Dennis Kirk sells everything you'll need, including the chain and tools. I've used the clip type master links without any problems. They are easy to put on (no special tools needed), just be sure to point the clip in the correct direction. I guess a properly rivited master link might be a little stronger, but you MUST use the proper riviting tool.
     
    eddievalleytrailer, Jul 15, 2007


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