Quick Link/Master Link Chain Question

Marzipanogram · 30 Dec 2018 at 13:36

I've just bought this links, so I can easily remove the chain for a decent clean.
https://www.amazon.co.uk/Hotop-Bicycle-Missing-Silver-Reusable/dp/B0731631HS

I'm guessing they might be "faulty" without even trying them on a chain.
When I place both halves together in my hands, they don't lock together.
They just slide freely from open and closed, without the need for a tool.

I'm I right in thinking they should properly lock into place, even when they're not connected to the rest of the chain?

Thank you.

FishFluff · 30 Dec 2018 at 14:01

I'd be surprised if you can get them to lock properly with your hands. I either have to use some master link pliers, or apply pressure to the chain by pushing on the pedals with the rear brake on.

Marzipanogram · 30 Dec 2018 at 14:17

FishFluff said:
I'd be surprised if you can get them to lock properly with your hands. I either have to use some master link pliers, or apply pressure to the chain by pushing on the pedals with the rear brake on.

Thank you for your help.
That confirms they are faulty and I shouldn't be able to move them into the closed/lock position without a tool etc.

mattyfez · 30 Dec 2018 at 17:46

How many gears has the bike got?
I'd get them refunded as you can buy a KMC chain that comes with its own quick link for about a tenner.
Deffinatley get something branded, KMC/SRAM /shimano

Marzipanogram · 30 Dec 2018 at 17:56

mattyfez said:
How many gears has the bike got?
I'd get them refunded as you can buy a KMC chain that comes with its own quick link for about a tenner.
Deffinatley get something branded, KMC/SRAM /shimano

Thank you for your help.

27. 3x9.
Since replying last, I've ordered these Quick Links https://www.amazon.co.uk/gp/product/B07FKN711F
I'll find out tomorrow if they're any different.
But I'll look out for the KMC Chain. Thanks.

floatindolphin · 2 Jan 2019 at 16:47

My kmc one wouldn’t snap into place by hand yesterday. If you set the chain so the link is on the top part of the chainstay, then pedal fwd (maybe grab the back brake with wheel off ground), you’ll hear it ping into place

Marzipanogram · 2 Jan 2019 at 17:22

floatindolphin said:
My kmc one wouldn’t snap into place by hand yesterday. If you set the chain so the link is on the top part of the chainstay, then pedal fwd (maybe grab the back brake with wheel off ground), you’ll hear it ping into place

Many thanks for your help

Is there a "safe limit" how many times you can detach and reattach a chain with a Quick Link?
Will the locking mechanism wear out after time or is it nothing to be concerned about?

mattyfez · 2 Jan 2019 at 17:34

It may vary depending on manufacturer, and speed of chain, but i know kmc 9 speed can be used for the life of the chain it comes with I. E. When the chain is warn out, the link it comes with is deemed warn too and should be binned.

Marzipanogram · 2 Jan 2019 at 17:43

mattyfez said:
It may vary depending on manufacturer, and speed of chain, but i know kmc 9 speed can be used for the life of the chain it comes with I. E. When the chain is warn out, the link it comes with is deemed warn too and should be binned.

Awesomes, thank you Sir

Roady · 3 Jan 2019 at 09:36

I've always used the links which come with whatever chains I'm buying (SRAM/KMC/Shimano), but whenever I've put a link back together and it feels 'easy' to snap together I've considered them worn and replaced them with new.

Also helps I picked up a pack of the SRAM ones, think I got 8 of them for less than a quid each in some sale. Merlin have the packs of 4 for £9 which is about the cheapest I can currently see for branded (most KMC/Shimano/SRAM are £2.50-£5 each).

Semi related note - most of my links will only be removed & reused 3-4 times maximum in their life. Most of my chains only being removed from the bike 2-3 times max before being replaced. I use SRAM PC1130 chains and at <£15 each (they come with a PowerLink) I'm happy to consider them a replaceable component.

Marzipanogram · 3 Jan 2019 at 12:00

Roady said:
I've always used the links which come with whatever chains I'm buying (SRAM/KMC/Shimano), but whenever I've put a link back together and it feels 'easy' to snap together I've considered them worn and replaced them with new.

Also helps I picked up a pack of the SRAM ones, think I got 8 of them for less than a quid each in some sale. Merlin have the packs of 4 for £9 which is about the cheapest I can currently see for branded (most KMC/Shimano/SRAM are £2.50-£5 each).

Semi related note - most of my links will only be removed & reused 3-4 times maximum in their life. Most of my chains only being removed from the bike 2-3 times max before being replaced. I use SRAM PC1130 chains and at <£15 each (they come with a PowerLink) I'm happy to consider them a replaceable component.

I appreciate the advice. Thank you very much