KMC quick link / SRAM power link – change when changing chain?

Just a quick tech question. When changing a chain (due to wear and not mechanical failure) should I also replace the power /quick link, or are these things good to go for a few thousand miles?

SRAM 10sp are supposed to be 1 use only (although its never stopped me reusing them).KMC are multiple use

new chain, new link.

Agreed, they’re already the weakest part of the chain, if you’ve decided your chain’s worn I’d want a new link too!

Cheers all, will order a couple more with the chain.

Yep.

When new things will be within a tolerance.
When worn it will be worn together [out of tolerance from new]

Reusing one will give you a part that is not of the correct dimensions and is therefore more likely to fail.

Cheers all, will order a couple more with the chain.

You know you get one with the chain?

Reusing one will give you a part that is not of the correct dimensions and is therefore more likely to fail.

Given how a chain wears I’m not convinced that’s that much of an issue – it’s not like the plates physically stretch.

@ njee

I usually run Shimano chains which come with that crap pin instead of a missing link.

Aside from an inability to remove the chain (for whatever reason) I prefer pins!

I have used my current SRAM Powerlock link for three summers, on 4 different chains, and take it on and off at least once a month to clean the chain.

You’re totally going to die

I always use a new link with a new chain but strip out the old ones from worn chains to use as spares. i think my bitsa bike has a chain with about 4 in, they seem to last longer than normal links!