Topic: chain link concern on cb550

[76four]

I recently bought the tool used to pop out the two pins on the link that holds the chain together(chain breaker).  I first took off the flat oval pin that locks it then the oval washer and now just the 2 pins needed to be popped out.  Before I used the tool to pop them out I wiggled my chain at that link and the pins simply slide out.  I was surprised and worried at the same time because I thought that those were suppost to be in there really tight.  What does this mean?  I have taken off plenty of bicycle chains and needing to use the chain breaker tool.  Do I need to get a new chain? 

[curemode2002]

If the first oval pin you mentioned looked like an oval C clip this is totally normal most early bikes used a clip on masterlink. The newer style of rivited master link is what you need the tool for, these tools usually can do both jobs, removing and installing.

[Blueridgerunner]

Sounds like a clip type master link to me. I use one myself but take care to put the clip with the closed end toward the direction of travel. If you have the tool then you may want to use the rivited master link as most folks prefer that type. The pins falling out of a clip link once the clip is removed is normal.

[76four]

Thanks for your input.  Sounds like it is normal then for the 2 pins on the link to simply slide out by hand.  Here is a picture to show the oval clip, oval washer and 2 pins. 

[Blueridgerunner]

Correct. I safety wire my clip because it is required by track safety rules. I don't race but it seemed like a prudent measure.