Hi,
I have a new shimano chain that was joined with the special pin that they give you, but before the chain was used I had to split it, now my question is....can I just use a brand new pin (I have some spare) in the same hole the other pin was removed from, or is that hole now damaged due to removing the other pin, would I have to remove a link?
Thanks 😀
new pin or powerlink
Powerlink would be easiest solution
As above, go to the lbs and blag a powerlink for 50p.
I've always just re-joined them in the old-fashioned way, with the regular pins that are part of the chain (not special joining pins) - as long as you're reasonable at using a chain tool it works fine.
I wouldn't re-join a Shimano chain or any chain using the regular pins, that's asking for trouble, chances are that the link will be sticky as a result.These pins are usually made with a lip to stop the chain coming apart,when you remove them the lip is damaged meaning it's easier for the chain to snap.
I wouldn't use a Shimano connecting pin either because everytime you split the chain you need a new one plus the tools to replace it.The best method is the SRAM powerlink connector, tool free and can be re-used.
If you split a normal link just rejoin it there or use one of the special pins if you have one. If you split the original special pin I would get rid of that link. Pretty sure those pins are designed not to be split.
I've split and rejoined shimano chains in the past no problem.
I realise you're not supposed to do it, and the reasons why - however, empirically, it does work.