I was cleaning/lubing my chain the other day when I saw one link like this (the other side is the same). Does this mean this link can be taken apart? Tried Google searching this picture but didn't find anything useful. I also tried pushing it s little bit but didn't get any movement, I didn't try too hard though since I didn't have a backup chain.
by tracebusta
14 Comments
Yes you need one of these. You might be able to use a pair of needle nose pliers but it’s not easy
https://preview.redd.it/4m2ipo7mawpe1.jpeg?width=1290&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=22f6d5838ff6a72561a7bceefa2c68b5a209b63d
Yes, that’s a master link and can be removed using a tool [like this.](https://www.parktool.com/en-us/product/master-link-pliers-mlp-1-2)
It appears to be a master link yes.
Yes but you need quick link pliers to do it easily. That is where the chain was reconnected into 1 continuous chain.
There are many ways to remove it, but the correct tool makes it much easier. If you aren’t trying to break your chain, there is no need to worry about it.
Yes, it’s a quick link.
Something like the Park Tool MLP-1.2 Quicklink can be used to separate it.
The needle nose method is easier if you make a “Z” shape with the surrounding links.
Yup. That there is a quick link. There is a set of quick link pliers that you can get to do it the kosher way.
Otherwise, there are a few tricks to remove it that you can find online.
here’s [46 second Park Tool video](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xRPKL4qTT3U) on how it works. Note that some quick links are supposed to be used only once, and the one on your chain is of the “non-reusable” type.
I reuse them a few times, but they definitely get looser after they’ve been worked a couple times.
This can also be done with a shoelace or a length of paracord if you don’t have/don’t want to purchase the tool.
Can be done by hand or a shoe lace.
[like this?](https://www.reddit.com/r/bikewrench/s/1caxhrBtPn)
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In a pinch you can use a shoelace to open it
With the correct pair of chain pliers yes but unlikely by hand as they tend to be a bit of a bugger even with the correct tools.