Missing link chain connector
10-13-20, 01:02 PM
#1
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Missing link chain connector
I have been using these connectors (KMC) and generic ones for a while.
I find them practical for maintaining the chain; that is, I am more inclined to remove the chain and clean it.
I didn't have much luck with the on-the-bike chain cleaners I've used in the past.
I re-use the links when I replace the chain, but there seems to be some confusion where this is correct or not.
Do you re-use them?
I find them practical for maintaining the chain; that is, I am more inclined to remove the chain and clean it.
I didn't have much luck with the on-the-bike chain cleaners I've used in the past.
I re-use the links when I replace the chain, but there seems to be some confusion where this is correct or not.
Do you re-use them?
10-13-20, 01:25 PM
#2
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Some are resuable but may only be used 3 times. It is on KMC site and directions with each chain.
"3. Always check MissingLink. KMC suggests to replace a new MissingLink when it is worn or after locking and unlocking 3 times."
"3. Always check MissingLink. KMC suggests to replace a new MissingLink when it is worn or after locking and unlocking 3 times."
10-13-20, 01:27 PM
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I have always reused them. Never had a chain problem.
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Fred "The Real Fred"
Fred "The Real Fred"
10-13-20, 01:27 PM
#4
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Some of them say re-usable on the packages and some don't. I have reused one of the cheapest KMC 11 speed ones and just keep a spare on the bike. 
Time will tell.
Time will tell.
10-13-20, 01:29 PM
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Get a Connex link and never have to worry about that again. They are designed to be removed and re-used by hand. No tools required.
10-14-20, 05:02 AM
#8
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I reuse them but keep an eye on how hard they are to open. When they get too easy then they could open by themselves if the chain slacks in use. BTDT. So I'll estimate you can reuse the KMC links 3 or 4 times then into the recycling. YMMV. I use a plier like tool to "open" them.
I agree about removing the chain. Mine get cleaned by a real good sloshing in milk bottle with a couple of inches of OMS, then dry out in the sun.
I agree about removing the chain. Mine get cleaned by a real good sloshing in milk bottle with a couple of inches of OMS, then dry out in the sun.
10-17-20, 05:51 AM
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All of my KMC quick links are the reusable ones, I reuse them and I do not keep track of how often I reused them. I have one bike with 10 speed chain, several bikes with eight speed.
KMC has two different specifications for eight speed chain width, so if you run an eight speed KMC chain make sure you get the right link for it.
KMC has two different specifications for eight speed chain width, so if you run an eight speed KMC chain make sure you get the right link for it.
12-16-20, 09:15 PM
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I replace the link when I replace the chain. I may open it 2 - 3 times for cleaning during the chain life. I would NEVER reuse an old link on a new chain.
When a chain breaks it is often at a high stress point when you are pedaling really hard. And it goes completely all at once. It can cause a derailleur to break, and can result in a very painful fall...
When a chain breaks it is often at a high stress point when you are pedaling really hard. And it goes completely all at once. It can cause a derailleur to break, and can result in a very painful fall...
12-19-20, 01:19 PM
#11
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I reused the quick link that came with my SRAM 1110 & 1130 chain a few times (on same chain only) but couldn't reuse the one that came on my Red chain. I just started waxing my chains, one chain per week (4x1110 & a 1130). Three cycles so far so that al least four reuse for each chain (plus one for stripping the chain and one of quick link was reused once before). Technically it's 8 times since I reconnect the link after removing from the bike and do my rewaxing in batches with the link attached so I don't lose them. It's my indoors setup and no problems so far.
