How to Remove a Bike Chain Without Master Link
This article will discuss how to remove a bike chain without a master link. Let’s start.
Are you having difficulty removing your bike chain? Don’t be concerned; we’re here to help you. In this post, we’ll show you how to remove a bike chain without a master link.
If you want to tune, replace, or repair your bike’s chain, you must first remove it. It’s possible that even washing the chain will need its removal.
What happens if you can’t find the master link? What strategy will you employ in order to break the chain?
Here’s how to remove a bike chain without a master link. Let’s start by defining what a master link is.
What Is A Master Link
How to remove a bike chain without a master link? Let’s dig into this question.
A master link is a quick-release mechanism that allows you to disconnect or reattach the chain without using a chain tool. It is made up of two outer plates and two inner plates that link them.
How Do You Find The Master Link
The master link is often darker than the other chains in a chain, however, some manufacturers make it lighter. It’s noticeable in any situation, and the quickest method to spot it is to clean the chain to remove dirt, grease, and lubricants, exposing the colors.
How Do You Know If Your Chain Has A Master Link Or Not
Some bike chains may not have master links. Until recently, most bikes with derailleurs had chains with no master links because they became stuck between the sprockets. These links were only seen in the chains of bikes with one to three speeds.
Modern master links, on the other hand, are carefully constructed to keep the derailleur from interfering. Because master links can endure more stress than regular pins, manufacturers like KMC, SRAM, and Shimano are increasingly employing them in their chains.
As a result, the only way to know if your chain has a master link is to visually inspect it or search for the model number on the side, then look up its details/features on the manufacturer’s website.
How to Remove Your Bike Chain Without a Master Link
Before you begin with the processes, you must first comprehend what you will be working with. Bike chains have an inner and outer plate joined by a pin/rivet, as well as a roller in the middle to accommodate the teeth of the sprocket.
To remove the chain, pull or press the pin to separate the inner and outer plates and break the link.
So, what’s the best course of action? Follow the steps given below.
Utilize A Chain Tool
A chain tool, also known as a chain breaker or rivet puller, is a piece of bike repair equipment that is used to reduce the chain’s length. It consists of a shelf on which the chain rests while you remove the rivet’s driving pin by turning the handle clockwise.
The rivet can be fully or partially pushed out of the opposite end. We prefer the latter because it may be tough to reattach it if it is completely disconnected.
However, replacing the rivet with a new one after pushing it out is better, so returning the old one is worthless if you have any.
The tool is inexpensive and can be obtained in almost all bike shops. Make sure you have this item in your repair kit if you enjoy motorcycling.
Use A Hammer And A Nail
In chain tools, the rivet is forced out using a screwing mechanism, but you can also use a nail and hammer. Because the technique is somewhat dangerous, having a pair of pliers on hand will help you avoid pounding your fingers.
To position the chain and force the rivet out, you’ll need a strong surface with a hole. The plane will function similarly to the chain shelf on a chain tool.
With all of these tools, mount the bike on a stand, then place the chain sideways on the hard surface (a block of wood or brick will do).
Position the nail directly in the middle of the rivet with the pliers in place and hammer it out.
The chain can then be reassembled by simply reversing the operation. After aligning the inner and outer plates, hammer the pin back inside.
Use A Saw
A worn-out chain can be replaced by cutting it with a saw or steel cutter. Please bear in mind that this will harm the chain at the cutting point, so only do this if the chain is worn out.
Conclusion
Hopefully, you would have gotten the answer to the question: How to remove a bike chain without a master link.
If you don’t have a master link, removing a bike chain can be tough. You can, however, remove the links using any of the methods indicated above if you have the proper tools.
