Installing new chain rivet type master link without chain tool

[Chuck78]

I was turned on to the method of installing the rivet style master links using a c-clamp and a steering ball bearing (hardened steel so it will do the job). I had no luck as the c-clamp would rock off center side to side due to the swivel part of the clamp. Using big vice grips, my buddy and I clamped and clamped and re-clamped the bearing into the drilled out end of the rivet type master link with very little deformity appearing.

Fast forward to my bike... Tried both methods again, not really doing much other than frustrating me. Could buy the Harbor Freight master link tool I suppose, but probably junk... Then it hit me, pull my bench vice off of the bench, and hold the bearings in place on the master pins using electrical tape! Worked GREAT first try! Now I know what is meant by "make sure you have proper deformity after riveting the master link pins!

[Chuck78]

The bearing cage in the photos is actually a bicycle headset bearing. I think you can probably buy individual bearings at a good hardware store if you have problems sourcing them. A motorcycle or bicycle shop if no luck there.

[chef1366]

I use a center punch and a hammer.

[Joe Nardy]

Cycle Gear has a chain tool that looks suspiciously like the Motion Pro tool with the exception of the box color. It is routinely on sale for around $40.

[chuck hahn]

Drill a little hole in the center of the C clamp to hold the bearing from sliding around next time.

[rapidray]

Or..............





You could just grind a flat on one side of the bearing! Then use the tape the lock it in place. Ray.

[chuck hahn]

Yup..thats another way to swing the cat I suppose.

[almarconi]

I think I'd rather just use a clip type master link.

[koolaid_kid]

I think I'd rather just use a clip type master link.

That is what I do. Never lost a one. Last year I safety wired mine just for grins.

[Agemax]

That is what I do. Never lost a one. Last year I safety wired mine just for grins.

me too, never had a problem with one........

[rapidray]

I safety wire AND silicone the clips on but believe the rivet links to be the best & least likely to give you issues at the worst possible moment. Ray.

[chuck hahn]

solid chains are the best as far as worry free from loosing a clip. I have a carbide burr that chuck up in the die grinder and pin ends are gone in a matter of minutes for chain removals.

[isleoman]

There was an outfit in Albany that was re-selling the DID tool for about $60 bucks a couple years ago, glad I picked one up then.

I've had two links come off at speed and found a third one missing its clip before going for a ride, would like to avoid that thrill from happening again. Yes I used safety wire as well. I'd use a master link to get me to a shop to have a new chian riveted but that's about as far as I want to go on a master anymore.

[tkent02]

I've had two links come off at speed and found a third one missing its clip before going for a ride, would like to avoid that thrill from happening again. Yes I used safety wire as well. I'd use a master link to get me to a shop to have a new chian riveted but that's about as far as I want to go on a master anymore.

I have a similar record, but I have never had one come off from a chain that wasn't completely worn out, and never lost a safety wired and RTVed clip.

I like the blob of red RTV because it makes it easy to find the master link to check the safety wire before a ride.

[Wester Cooley]

Rivet links are the only way to go in today's high horsepower world. I was old school too with master links for many years.

Back in '86 I lost a clip then the chain at max rpm's!!! Took a chunk out of my tail section, destroyed the inner fender, chain guard, and engine chain cover. Plus bent all 8 exhaust valves.

That was the LAST time I ever used a clip master link again.