Chain link joiners

[steveR]

I've noticed in the forum that many/most of you use rivetted chains on you bikes as opposed to the traditional joining link. I appreciate that the rivetted connection may well be more secure, but is anyone still using joiner links?

I have to say, that I have never had a problem in donkeys years of using chains with a joining link on a variety of devices, including of course, bikes!

[Dilbert]

Fine as long as you fit them properly and keep an eye on them, but somehow I guess peeps just feel a bit more secure with a rivetted one.

[FatFergie]

I don't use them basically because of the recommendations of the makers and Honda. But I also think it's just as easy to fit a rivet link and I just use vicegrips and a couple of hammers.

[brianmcc]

Never used a riveted link on any bike. They have all come with joining links and just replaced like for like never had any problems touch wood. All bikes were second hand so may have been changed before.

[steveR]

Fine as long as you fit them properly and keep an eye on them, but somehow I guess peeps just feel a bit more secure with a rivetted one.

That's it, very much a personal preference.

[steveR]

I don't use them basically because of the recommendations of the makers and Honda. But I also think it's just as easy to fit a rivet link and I just use vicegrips and a couple of hammers.

Ooooh! I know how you do that and I am afraid it makes me cringe having had to do this on farm kit in the past It is the getting a proper flare out on the rivet that worries me!

[Dilbert]

As an Engineer what worries me most is that a lot of DIYers make a hash of whichever method, but most especially the "home" rivetting if you're not that sure then get someone you know to show you how to do it properly and don't try to bodge it, this could cost you dearly if you get it wrong, both financial and in the potential to cause you great harm.

It personally makes me shudder when I walk round DIY stores and see people you wouldn't trust to open a packet of Pringles without cutting themselves, looking over power tools that can take your leg off before you've noticed.

If in doubt get someone professional to do it for you, is it worth the risk?

[YEN_POWELL]

When I rivet my chains, the first thing I do is to make sure the pressfit plate only goes on as far as the plates on the rest of the chain. I rivet with the link on the rear sprocket at 3 O'clock, when viewed from the sidestand side.Take your time and keep checking from the rear end of the bike to see the plates above and below so you know when to stop pressing the plate.

Same with the riveting. If you use the pro motion tool you can screw the riveter in very slightly a bit at a time. I take mine off the rivet and check it a lot of times even if it takes longer. Better to do it slowly and correctly than have to start again with a new rivet link or worse ride with a defective joint. You're only flaring the hollowed end out enough to stop the side plate moving outward, not crushing a bike thief's testicles.

[Dilbert]

You're only flaring the hollowed end out enough to stop the side plate moving outward, not crushing a bike thief's testicles.

Now that's what I call a true professional

[brianmcc]

So all engineers are trained in riveting chains, and also know who is not.