Chain master link pin flairing question
 

I'm struggling to flair the master link pins on my new Tsubaki Sigma O-ring chain. I specifically bought a reasonably heavy duty chain tool to do the job but I just can't seem to get enough purchase on it to make more than a small indentation on the pins:

http://i.imgur.com/0k899.jpg

http://i.imgur.com/hjfQs.jpg

The master link seems fairly solid as it won't budge when attacked with a pair of pliers, however I don't feel confident to ride the bike when the pins aren't really flaired at all.

Am I doing it wrong? :)

Re: Chain master link pin flairing question
 

Wrong sort of rivet link for that tool. You need a hollow end rivet link. The ones you have are solid pins.

http://static.bandcexpress.co.uk/med...-links_1_1.jpg

Re: Chain master link pin flairing question
 

There are two types of rivet link and two types of tool:

Links:

1. Plain ended, such the the pins are a solid cylinder.
2. Recessed, such that the ends of the pins are hollow cylinder 2-3mm deep.

Tools:

1. Hammer staking tool - typically known as 'Whale'
2. Clamp type press tool - the one you've got.

The pin is of the former type, the tool is of the latter - that won't work.

Re: Chain master link pin flairing question
 

Thanks guys - lesson learned :)

So just to confirm, if I buy one of these master links then I'll be able to flair it with the tool I have?

Re: Chain master link pin flairing question
 

Yep

Re: Chain master link pin flairing question
 

Try to find a link that's the same brand and type as the chain - not all manufacturers use exactly the same dimensions for the pins etc.