Topic: Cut my chain three times and it's still too short!

[DaveBarbier]

Decided to venture out of the safety of my build thread for this one.

So I just cut my DID 520 x-ring chain one link too short like a moron. What are my options?

This is how the chain is right now:


This is what I have left over:

[BomberMann650]

Can you run the rear wheel farther foward on the swing arm?

Otherwise you're looking at having to reinstall that link the hard way.  Riveting the thing back together is a chore.

[eigenvector]

I've done that before on my old Tiger 1050 - re-riveting some back onto the chain IS a pain.

Having done that - if it was me I'd just buy a new one.  I value my time way more than the cost of a new chain.

Maybe you can find a 2nd tie plate set and then it's not such a pain to splice on additional links.

[PeWe]

One more master link to make chain longer. Before that you need to make it 2-3 links shorter and add a correct series of links with the 2 master links.

[DaveBarbier]

I can't move my wheel any closer unfortunately, that's the first thing I tried.

At first it seemed like just riveting a new pin in would be a simple thing to do, but I guess not...

I have thought about getting another clip master link, cut the chain again a few links down and then reassemble with the correct number of links. I just wanted to be sure this was an ok thing to do.

And yeah, eigenvector, I have the same chain in my cart on eBay if all else fails, haha. But that's $73 I don't feel like spending.

Looks like the additional master link is my best, cheapest bet?


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[DaveBarbier]

These new master links are cheap. Under $10 shipped. Is a rivet master link a better more permanent option? Yes, I'd then have to get a rivet tool. 


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[eigenvector]

I think so.  Pretty ugly hack, but just make sure you don't cut it short again - or you might have nothing but master links for a chain.   

[DaveBarbier]

Sounds link a plan. That would be pretty funny to have all master links, haha.

Now, I could easily weld the master link instead of using the clip. Frowned upon?


Edit: eh never mind. Don't want to take the temper out of the link.

[BomberMann650]

You could peen a master link.

[TwoTired]

Welding an x ring or o ring chain would unlikely let the rings or sealed in grease survive such extreme temps.  Don't cha think?

[PeWe]

The chain must keep up with its task. It can cost if it snap. Only extension I should trust is with riveted master link and a good tool doing it with.

[DaveBarbier]

Welding an x ring or o ring chain would unlikely let the rings or sealed in grease survive such extreme temps.  Don't cha think?

Thought about that, but I was thinking a couple quick tacks wouldn't hurt anything. Either way, I'm not going to try and find out.

[martin99]

Not sure I get the title. Do you mean when you cut it two times it was too long?

I've used half links to overcome that scenario on my Pommie sh1tboxes before, but can't recall ever having the same problem on a Jap bike.

[DaveBarbier]

The chain must keep up with its task. It can cost if it snap. Only extension I should trust is with riveted master link and a good tool doing it with.

Agreed. I ordered the rivet master link for $9. I'll have my buddy at a shop rivet it for me for a 6 pack of brewskies.

[DaveBarbier]

Not sure I get the title. Do you mean when you cut it two times it was too long?

I've used half links to overcome that scenario on my Pommie sh1tboxes before, but can't recall ever having the same problem on a Jap bike.

Thought brits had a good sense of humor?

It's a Polish carpenter joke. I applied it to my chain scenario due to the fact that it dealt with something that is now too short after me cutting it.

[Jnel]

I got it... that was funny.  Master link number two coming up.

Sent from my SAMSUNG-SM-G935A using Tapatalk

[carnivorous chicken]

One more master link to make chain longer. Before that you need to make it 2-3 links shorter and add a correct series of links with the 2 master links.

This.

[DaveBarbier]

I still find it strange that I couldn't just get a single solid rivet, push it in and peen it over and be done with it. Is it a limitation of proper tooling? The factory rivets that are in the chain are much more robust than the ones you and I can get?


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[eigenvector]

No, they aren't more robust (or at least I don't think they are).  You had to split the chain to shorten it - so clearly they can't be super tough.

If you can find a pin to fit in the link go for it.  I could never locate one though.

[PeWe]

Solid rivet link is PITA to rivet. The chain I have on now has solid master link. I had to buy a really good tool to rivet it, WHALE. Complete kit for solid, hollow links and a cutter, all has it own add-on. It is recommended to grind end off before using the cutter.

DC chain has now replaced the solid link with hollow rivet link. It is only hollow in the ends where it will be riveted.

I'll use spacers next time I'll rivet a chain. It is easy to over rivet and links will be too tight forming a Z. Same distance as the other links have.

[DaveBarbier]

I wasn't aware that the hollow rivets were actually only hollow for the rivet portion. That makes sense and seems like a fine alternative. At least manufacturers think so, haha. Thanks guys, I ordered the rivet master link. I won't be making this mistake again!


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[eigenvector]

Yes you will, don't give us that garbage.   

Why do you think I ride shafties now!

[DaveBarbier]

You're right, I'll probably do the same thing in a month.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk