6 Easy Steps on How to Remove a Bike Chain Link

Bicycle chain with missing link
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Removing a bike chain link is a simple task that can be completed with a few basic tools. In this article, we will provide step-by-step instructions on how to remove a bike chain link, as well as some troubleshooting tips. By following these instructions, you will be able to quickly and easily remove a bike chain link, getting you back on the road in no time.

Before you begin, you will need to gather a few tools. These include a chain tool, a pair of pliers, and a rag. The chain tool is the most important tool, as it is used to break the chain. Pliers can be used to hold the chain in place while you are working, and the rag can be used to clean up any oil or grease. Additionally, it is helpful to have a bike stand to hold your bike in place while you are working.

Once you have gathered your tools, you can begin the process of removing a bike chain link. First, use the chain tool to break the chain. To do this, place the chain tool over the chain link that you want to remove. Then, turn the handle of the chain tool until the link breaks. Once the link is broken, you can remove it from the chain. Next, use the pliers to hold the chain in place while you use the rag to clean up any oil or grease. Finally, reattach the chain by connecting the two ends together. To do this, simply insert the pin into the hole in the outer plate. Then, use the pliers to press the pin into place. Once the pin is in place, the chain is reattached.

Identifying Damaged Links

Identifying damaged links in a bike chain is crucial for maintaining a smooth and efficient drivetrain. Here are some telltale signs to look for when inspecting your chain for damage:

1. Visual Inspection:

–

Rust or Corrosion:
Look for reddish-brown spots or discoloration, indicating the presence of corrosion. Rust weakens the chain and can cause it to break prematurely.

–

Elongated Links:
Use a chain wear indicator tool to measure the elongation of links. When links stretch beyond a certain point, they become less effective at transferring power and are prone to jumping off the chainring or cassette.

–

Bent Links:
Examine the chain for any links that appear twisted or bent. These irregularities can disrupt the chain’s alignment and cause noise or difficulty shifting.

–

Cracked Links:
Check for any visible cracks or splits in the links. Cracked links are a serious hazard and should be replaced immediately to prevent chain failure.

–

Stiff Links:
If certain links move less freely than others, it could indicate a lack of lubrication or seized pins. Stiff links can cause the chain to jump or bind.

By regularly inspecting your bike chain for these signs of damage, you can identify and replace damaged links before they cause problems. This proactive approach helps ensure a smooth, reliable ride and extends the lifespan of your drivetrain components.

Additional Tips:

– Clean your chain regularly to remove dirt and grime that can contribute to wear and tear.
– Lubricate your chain periodically to reduce friction and protect it from rust.
– Replace the entire chain if you notice significant wear or damage to multiple links.

Gathering Necessary Tools

To remove a bike chain link successfully, you’ll require a few essential tools. Here’s a detailed breakdown of each:

Chain Tool (or Chain Breaker)

A chain tool is the most crucial tool for this task. It’s a specialized device that allows you to quickly and safely remove and reconnect chain links. Choose a chain tool that’s compatible with your specific chain type. Chain tools typically feature two pins: one presses against the chain link’s rivet, while the other pushes the rivet out. Some chain tools have a built-in anvil that supports the chain during the pressing process.

Wrench (Optional)

A wrench may be needed if you encounter a chain tool that requires manual tightening. The wrench will secure the chain tool in place and provide the necessary leverage to press out the rivet.

Replacement Chain Link (Optional)

If you’re removing a link to shorten the chain, you’ll need a replacement link to reconnect the chain. Ensure the replacement link is the same type and size as the original chain.

Tool	Purpose
Chain Tool	Removes and reconnects chain links
Wrench (Optional)	Tightens chain tool
Replacement Chain Link (Optional)	Replaces removed link

Safety Precautions

Before you begin, take the following safety precautions to ensure your safety and the proper removal of the bike chain link:

1. Wear Protective Gear

Put on safety glasses to protect your eyes from flying debris and wear gloves to prevent cuts and abrasions on your hands.

2. Secure the Bike

Place the bike on a stable surface and engage the brakes to keep it from moving while you work.

3. Identify the Chain Link to Remove and Gather Tools

Locate the specific chain link you need to remove. To do this, shift the gears to the smallest front chainring and the largest rear cog. This will align the chain in a straight line, making it easier to identify the correct link.

Gather the necessary tools, which typically include a chain tool or a pair of needle-nose pliers. A chain tool is recommended for a more precise and effortless removal.

Tool	Purpose
Chain Tool	Specialized tool for precise chain link removal
Needle-Nose Pliers	For manual removal, but may damage chain links

Removing the Master Link

A master link is a special type of chain link that is used to connect the two ends of a bicycle chain. It is typically made of a softer metal than the rest of the chain, and it has a small tab that can be bent open to release the chain. To remove a master link, you will need a pair of pliers or a chain tool.

Shift the chain to the smallest chainring and largest cog.
Locate the master link. It will be the only link that has a small tab on one side and a hole on the opposite side. This hole will be located on the inside of the chain if the link is not yet separated.
Use a pair of pliers or a chain tool to bend open the tab on the master link. This will release the chain.

Separate the Chain at the Master Link
Step 1: Locate the master link. It is typically the only link with a smaller profile and a small tab on one end.
Step 2: Identify the correct side of the tab. The correct side is opposite the hole on the inner surface of the chain link
Step 3: Insert a small flathead screwdriver or a chain tool into the notch on the correct side of the tab.
Step 4: Press down on the tab to release it, enabling you to separate the chain at the master link

Once the chain is separated, you can remove the master link by sliding it off the end of the chain.

Using a Chainbreaker

To remove a bike chain link using a chainbreaker, follow these steps:

1. Find the Master Link

Identify the master link, which is a link with a removable pin. It is usually located near the rear derailleur.

2. Position the Chainbreaker

Place the chainbreaker over the master link. Ensure that the pin is aligned with the piercing hole in the chainbreaker.

3. Push the Pin

Squeeze the handles of the chainbreaker to force the pin out of the master link.

4. Remove the Broken Link

Once the pin is pushed out, remove the broken link from the chain.

5. Connect the Chain

Now you need to connect the two ends of the chain. Here are three methods:

Chain Connection Methods
Using a Quick Link
A quick link is a small, reusable connector that enables you to easily link the chain ends. Insert it into the gap created by the removed link and close the lever.
Repinning the Master Link
If you are using a chain without a quick link, you can repin the master link. Push a new pin into the link, making sure it is fully inserted. Use pliers to spread the ends of the pin to secure it.
Installing a Power Lock
A power lock is another type of reusable connector. Insert it into the chain gap and tighten the bolt using a hex key. Power locks are more durable than quick links but may take longer to install.

Separating the Link

Removing a bike chain link requires identifying the master link and pressing its release button. Here’s a step-by-step guide to separate the link:

1. Inspect the chain:
Examine the chain to identify the master link. It’s usually marked with a different color or a small groove on one side.

2. Locate the release button:
The master link has a small release button on the grooved side. It may be a plastic or metal pin.

3. Press the release button:
Gently push the release button towards the opposite side of the link. You’ll hear a click or feel a slight give as the button is depressed.

4. Separate the link:
Once the release button is pressed, the master link will come apart into two separate links. Handle the chain with care to avoid bending or damaging it.

5. Clean the link:
Use a degreaser or chain cleaner to remove any dirt or grease from the link and surrounding area. This will help prevent future problems with chain operation.

6. Lubricate the link:
Apply a small amount of chain lubricant to the new master link and surrounding area. Lubrication reduces friction and extends the life of the chain.

Here’s a table summarizing the steps:

Step	Action
1	Inspect the chain for the master link
2	Locate the release button on the master link
3	Press the release button towards the opposite side
4	Separate the master link into two links
5	Clean the link and surrounding area
6	Lubricate the new master link and surrounding area

Reinserting the Link

Once the master link has been opened, you can proceed to remove it from the chain and reinsert it once you have added or removed the necessary links. To do this, follow these simple steps:

Locate the master link on the chain.
Open the link by pressing on the side plates with a chain tool or a pair of pliers.
Once the link is open, carefully remove it from the chain.
If you are adding links, slide the new links onto the chain.
If you are removing links, simply leave out the unnecessary links.
Place the master link back onto the chain.
Close the link by pressing on the side plates with the chain tool or pliers, ensuring that the link is securely closed.

Here is a more detailed explanation of the last step:

Step

Description

7.1

Hold the master link in one hand and the chain in the other hand, aligning the link with the last two links on the chain.

7.2

Push the master link over the last link on the chain, towards the middle of the chain.

7.3

Use the chain tool or pliers to press down on the top and bottom plates of the master link, simultaneously.

7.4

Continue pressing until you hear a “click” sound, indicating that the link is securely closed.

Connecting the Master Link

1. Identify the master link: It’s typically different in shape and color from the other links.
2. Align the master link ends: Push the two ends of the master link towards each other so they overlap.
3. Insert the pin: Insert the pin into the small hole in one end of the master link.
4. Push the pin through: Carefully push the pin through the opposite hole in the other end of the master link.
5. Check the pin length: Make sure the pin is long enough to protrude slightly beyond the ends of the master link.
6. Use pliers to secure the pin: Firmly grasp the pin ends with pliers and bend them towards the master link to secure it.
7. Trim the pin ends: Use wire cutters to trim the excess length of the pin ends flush with the master link.

Variations in Master Link Types:

Type	Description
Quick Link	Pinless design; uses a lever to open and close the link
Cam Lock Link	Features a cam mechanism that locks the link in place
Screw Pin Link	Uses a threaded pin to secure the link

Additional Tips:

Use a chain tool specifically designed for your chain type.
Wear eye protection and gloves while working on your bike chain.
If you’re not comfortable servicing your bike chain yourself, consult a professional mechanic.

Cleaning and Lubricating the Chain

Regular cleaning and lubrication are crucial for maintaining a smooth-running, long-lasting bike chain. Follow these steps to keep your chain in optimal condition:

Materials Required:

Tool	Purpose
Chain cleaner	Dissolves dirt and grime
Lube	Reduces friction and wear
Rags or paper towels	Wiping and cleaning

Instructions:

1. Degrease the chain by applying a chain cleaner and using a brush or cloth to thoroughly remove dirt, grease, and debris.

2. Rinse the chain with water or a solvent to remove any remaining cleaner residue.

3. Apply a thin layer of lube to each link of the chain. Avoid over-lubing.

4. Wipe away any excess lube with a rag or paper towel.

Chain Won’t Come Off

If the chain is stuck on the derailleur or cassette, try using a chain tool to push the pin back into place. If that doesn’t work, you may need to use a hammer and punch to knock the pin out.

Pin Is Broken

If the pin is broken, you will need to replace it. To do this, use a chain tool to push the old pin out. Then, insert the new pin into the chain and use the chain tool to push it into place.

Chain Is Too Long

If the chain is too long, it will need to be shortened. To do this, use a chain tool to remove the extra links. Then, reattach the chain to the bike.

Chain Is Too Short

If the chain is too short, it will need to be lengthened. To do this, use a chain tool to add the extra links. Then, reattach the chain to the bike.

Chain Is Skipping

If the chain is skipping, it may be worn out or damaged. To fix this, you will need to replace the chain. To do this, use a chain tool to remove the old chain. Then, install the new chain and use the chain tool to tighten it.

Chain Is Rusting

If the chain is rusting, you will need to clean it. To do this, use a degreaser and a brush to remove the rust. Then, apply a lubricant to the chain.

Chain Is Making Noise

If the chain is making noise, it may be dry. To fix this, apply a lubricant to the chain.

Chain Is Binding

If the chain is binding, it may be too tight. To fix this, loosen the chain by using a chain tool to push the pin back into place.

Chain Is Breaking

If the chain is breaking, it may be worn out or damaged. To fix this, you will need to replace the chain. To do this, use a chain tool to remove the old chain. Then, install the new chain and use the chain tool to tighten it.

Chain Is Kinking

If the chain is kinking, it may be too loose. To fix this, tighten the chain by using a chain tool to push the pin back into place.

How To Remove Bike Chain Link

Removing a bike chain link is a necessary skill for any cyclist. Whether you need to replace a damaged link or simply adjust the length of your chain, being able to do this yourself can save you time and money. Here are the steps on how to remove a bike chain link:

Gather your tools. You will need a chain tool, which is a small, handheld device that is used to push out the pins that hold the chain links together. You can purchase a chain tool at most bike shops or online.
Find the link that you want to remove. Once you have found the link, you need to determine which side of the link the pin is on. The pin is usually on the outside of the chain, but it can be on the inside on some chains.
Position the chain tool. Once you have found the pin, you need to position the chain tool over the pin. The chain tool should be placed so that the pin is in the center of the tool.
Push out the pin. Once the chain tool is in place, you need to push out the pin. To do this, simply turn the handle of the chain tool until the pin is pushed out of the link.
Remove the link. Once the pin is pushed out, you can remove the link from the chain. To do this, simply pull the link apart.