MegaSack DRAW - This year's winner is user - rgwb
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I'm beginning to think that my new build is jinxed. This time I've been struggling to fit a new KMC chain with the missing link supplied; it just jams when I try and pull it together. It mates perfectly off the bike but not when used with the chain.
In desperation I tried the Missing Link of the old chain and it fits perfectly (I've repeated many times but the new ML won't fit whilst the old will).
I know that the general advice in to fit a new missing link with each chain but will I get away with re-using the old one or do I just buy a new one.
I've reused mine several times. In fact I never throw them away and they go in the pack for trail side emergencies. I've never had one fail on me in perhaps 5 years of using KMC chains. They usually fail at a standard link I find.
was this a boxed chain or a bagged-up, OEM-style sale? (I wonder if the wrong link has been put in). I've never had one that won't go in, nor have I had one fail (actually a lie - had one pop off about 10-15 years ago but I'd not been using them long and user error may well explain that one)
If 9 or 10 they are generally reusable. The 11 Speed ones are not recommended for reuse.
I've reused the 11 speed ones multiple times without any issues, although KMC do state on the packaging that they're not supposed to be reusable.
The quick link should be stamped with the number of speeds so you can check it's the right one for the chain. Try a bit of a squeeze on the side plates while applying tension, DO NOT use your fingers for this.
If it's 11 speed, I think they need more force to close, and are supposed to be a single use item, as above.
It's 9 speed and a boxed chain (so not OEM); possibly a manufacturing tolerance issue, but I've never experienced it before.
Have you tried spinning the chain so the pushed together quick link is on the top chain run. Then put the back brake on and push on the pedal- snaps into place.
I had one break the other day - not totally, just the end at one side. It was a new one though, not re-used. the re-used one is holding up fine.