How to separate or replace the links in a bike chain

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Be careful to not force the pin in or out incorrectly. If it is difficult to press the pin through the chain, the tool is most likely not aligned up properly. Greasing the threads of the chain cutting tool will make it easier to press in or out the pin.

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crwdns2931653:01crwdne2931653:0 Chain Breaking

How to separate or replace the links in a bike chain, Chain Breaking: crwdns2935265:01crwdnd2935265:01crwdnd2935265:02crwdne2935265:0

How to separate or replace the links in a bike chain, Chain Breaking: crwdns2935265:01crwdnd2935265:02crwdnd2935265:02crwdne2935265:0

Slide the chain cutting tool onto the desired link.
Align the push pin of the tool with the pin on the chain, and tighten the tool until the pin protrudes out the other side without falling all the way out.

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How to separate or replace the links in a bike chain: crwdns2935265:02crwdnd2935265:01crwdnd2935265:01crwdne2935265:0

Stop pushing the pin out when it is just held in by the outer link, so it doesn't fall all the way out. You will still be able to separate the links.
If necessary, repeat the previous step to take off sections of links.

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crwdns2931653:03crwdne2931653:0 Chain Reassembly

How to separate or replace the links in a bike chain, Chain Reassembly: crwdns2935265:03crwdnd2935265:01crwdnd2935265:02crwdne2935265:0

How to separate or replace the links in a bike chain, Chain Reassembly: crwdns2935265:03crwdnd2935265:02crwdnd2935265:02crwdne2935265:0

Rout the chain around the front chain rings and rear derailleur.
Pull the ends of the chain together.

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How to separate or replace the links in a bike chain: crwdns2935265:04crwdnd2935265:01crwdnd2935265:02crwdne2935265:0

How to separate or replace the links in a bike chain: crwdns2935265:04crwdnd2935265:02crwdnd2935265:02crwdne2935265:0

Use the chain cutter tool to press the chain pin back through the chain link. If it is difficult to push it back in, the links are not aligned properly. Realign and try again if this is the case.
Reusing pins in chains can cause the chain to fail. This is because the pins are press fit into link. Using a new pin when assembling a chain is recommend for long term use.

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After re-inserting the chain pin, make sure that the chain links move freely. Occasionally, pressing the pin into the chain will cause excess friction on the side links, causing the two links to not flex properly. You can fix this by adjusting how you push the pin through, and also by adjusting the links with a pair of needle-nosed pliers.

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