sethsolanki

Hi All,

I've purchased a new Shimano IG51 narrow chain for my bike and I've read that it requires a special black pin (8 speed bike).The pin I've seen mentioned is long and needs to be snapped once pushed through using the chain tool.

The new chain does have a PIN on one end that look like it's ready to be pushed through. Can I just use pin this to put the chain back together once I've removed the links I don't need from the other end?

I'm new to he forum so it won't let me upload a pic until I post 10 times..

Thanks in advance!

shelbyfv

No. Use the proper pin or better yet a quick link. Any brand link will work.

bldegle2

Vote number 2 for a quick link...

dsbrantjr

You COULD push the pin through but if it is not the special joining pin I would not use it, vote #3 for a suitable quick link.

hermanchauw

Use a quick link. No way to get it wrong.

HillRider

A few years ago Shimano sold some of their chains with the special joining pin pre-installed at one end and you did what you propose, you shorten it from the other end and join the ends by seating that pin fully. That is not a defect, it is the factory installed correct joining pin.

A quick link is a convenience and can be used but it's not essential for this particular chain.

Crankycrank

Yup, quick link. Reusable, no chain breaking tools required to remove your chain when needed. One example here. Shop around to save a buck or go to your local bike shop. Make sure you get the proper size for an 8 speed chain. https://www.ebay.com/c/1820364597?iid=223653776751

sch

Although the Shimano joining pin works, it is a kludge. Quick link is a better approach.
One example: https://www.amazon.com/Hotop-Bicycle...8-6&th=1&psc=1

Just make sure you get the link for the correct chain speed.

Iride01 

Is the pin you see ready to be pushed through the one that is longer than needed with a tapered end that gets broken off? If so you can use it. Otherwise, did you buy this new? Was it a chain someone returned and sold as new?

I seem to remember my shimano 11 speed chain had the pin wrapped in a little cellophane square that one might miss falling out of the package as the chain is unwrapped. However, that was years ago and I may have built my own memories to suit my purpose <grin>.

If you got it from a shop, it's likely they'll have more spare pins and will give you one if you show them you didn't get yours. Also, if you think it's possible this is a chain that someone returned, then make sure it still has enough links if you are going to use it.

And you can't use just any quick link. It needs to be a quick link appropriate for your speed of chain.

But for 8 speed chains, I'm not sure if they ever used the break off pin. I think they may have come with the pin in one side plate and ready to push in.

HillRider

1) No, the pre-installed pin did not have a tapered extension that had to be broken off, it was just fully seated to join the chain and this was how they were sold new. It's not a mistake or a defect.

2) Yes, most 8-speed (not the OP's model) and all newer 9-speed and above Shimano chains come with a small plastic envelope with two joining pins that did have the break-off end.

3) As above some came with separate pins in an envelope and others came with the pre-installed pin. I recall it was the higher line (HG-70 and above) that came with separate pins.

leob1

Throw that pin away and use a quick link. Life will be easier if you ever want to remove the chain.

sethsolanki

Thanks All


So it sounds like the existing pin can be used but a quick link could save me a hassle in the future. To be honest I do very few miles these days and don't stray far from home!


The chain was purchased off eBay as all shops are closed. Maybe a copy..?it's in a Shimano box but looked a little torn, maybe the pins were removed to sell separately. There are many vendors selling an identical item and all pics show no additional special pins. Not sure if Shimano ever sold these as I found it with the standard pin semi fitted and without additional special pins. The IG range is quite dated and my bike was released in 2004! Specialized hard rock pro.


Thanks again. Great response and useful forum!


Stay well😊

sethsolanki

Thanks hillrider just saw your complete response.
Thanks for confirming!

Bill Kapaun

I'd just use the supplied pin and switch to a Quik Link WHEN I have reason to break the chain.