I recently updated my drivechain and fitted a new KMC 10 speed chain, cutting a couple of links out to get it the correct length.
I've since replaced the chainset and nudged the EBB forward a bit and would like to re-add the cut links to the chain; I'd assumed that I could just push the pin back through using my chain tool (I'm sure that I've done this before in the past with other brands).
However, the [url= http://kmcchain.us/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/KMC_Missinglink_guide_reusable.pdf ]KMC instructions[url] are very clear stating: "Always use KMC Missing Link for chain connecting. Do NOT use or reuse cut pin from the chain."
I'm assuming therefore that I shouldn't be [re]joining the chain in this way.
I have a spare Missing Link but the pin in the cut links is still firmly fixed in one of the outer plates; I might be able to push it out with my chain tool.
Do people add links to KMC chains with a pin or does this way, disaster lay?
The pins are kinda rivited in, if you look closely they mushroom slightly at the ends, there's a bit of a lip that holds them in place.
When you push a pin out with a chain tool, that lip gets mashed up so it won't go back in securely.
In short, I wouldn't bother, if you must, use a second magic link but the regular pins are not designed to be reused.
I removed and added links a few time to a KMC X9SL (the very lightweight blingy gold one). I have always done this on many different chains as I ride fixed gear so need to when changing gearing.
However the KMC chain snapped after 2 months use when I was 10 miles from home which is the first time I have ever had a chain snap so I would tend to agree with KMC...
Fair enough, the instructions are petty clear too I suppose.
just use two powerlinks. Simple.
what he says ^^ my HT chain been like that for ages
Yep, that's KMC's advice too so I'll stick to that.