How to Use a Chain Tool to Break a Chain

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How to Use a Chain Tool to Break a Chain

If you’re a cyclist, it’s no exaggeration to say that knowing how to use a chain breaker is an essential skill. Whether you’re riding a mountain bike, or road bike, your chain will eventually need some attention from time to time. 

Using a chain tool is one of the quickest, easiest ways to break a chain. With the right tools and some practice breaking chains becomes an uncomplicated process — not just for professionals but also for everyday bikers like yourself. 

Using the right tool for the job is critical in ensuring you can get back on your ride as soon as possible. 

In this blog post I’ll take a look at how to use a chain tool safely and efficiently in order to get back on two wheels as soon as possible!

3 Steps Process to Use a Chain Tool to Break a Chain

bike chain tool

1- Check the Chain Type

First you have to be sure whether your bike chain has a quick link or not. Checking your chain for a quick release link is the first step to proceed with the process.

To do this properly and confidently, you should turn your pedals backwards and take care to observe each of the chain links carefully as they move. 

This can be a tedious process, but it will prove worth it when you spot a quick release link as they stand out from the rest with their distinct design. If you can’t find any such links on your chain, then it’s most likely of the traditional variety which requires the use of a chain tool for both its removal and installation.

2- Place the chain on the tool

Secondly place the chain on breaker tool. It has a knob for adjusting the tool pin and a slot for placing the chain; however, you’ll only need to utilize the outer slot when breaking your chain.

To start, simply put the link of the chain that you wish to disconnect on the breaker tool and adjust the knob so that the pin fits inside of it. 

Once this is done, you’ll be able to separate and break your chain much faster than if you just attempted it manually. By following these instructions, you’ll have your broken chain in no time!

3- Take out the pin slowly & Remove the link

When adjusting your tool, it is important to be gentle and turn the knob in gradual half turns – never apply too much force as this could result in the pin getting pushed out way to quickly. 

As you slowly turn the knob over time, you should feel increased resistance, indicating that the pin or rivet is almost pushing out of its link when it’s undone. At this moment, take care to not push it out too much further as the desired outcome has been achieved.

You may need to twist and remove the link manually afterwards, but don’t worry – it should only take a light bit of force until it pops right off.

How to link the chain back?

Connecting your chain is an incredibly simple process – all you need to do is slot the chain onto the tool and start twisting the two ends together until they fit nicely. When the link is secured, adjust the tool pin so it touches the chain pin and make sure it’s on one side of the link. Then, just readjust the tool pin so it has cleared out of its slot.

You’ll need to turn the knob until the pin pops into the link and can be seen on both sides of the chain. Make sure you take the chain off again to check whether it’s loose enough for motion before you continue. If it’s too tight, use the inner slot to make small turns until it’s more flexible. Repeat this process until the link moves freely again – then your adjustment is complete!

Re-connecting a chain link can lead to some sticky situations; if not done correctly, the chain links often compress together and create a stiff link. It may seem like an impossible feat to fix, but there is an easy solution. To start off, adjust the chain tool so that the inner slot is back all of the way – then insert your freshly connected link. Be careful not to over tighten it! Try loosening it just barely, maybe just a quarter of a turn – this should give the link plates enough slack. When done properly, your chain will be comfortable when rotating in its entirety. After verifying that everything is functioning amicably, you are ready to ride again!

Bike Chain Parts & Terms

1- Master Link or Pin

Replacing a chain on a bike is an important part of maintaining it, and when you’re selecting a replacement chain, you’ll need to decide between getting a new pin or master link. 

Pins are the easiest to install and are best suited for single-speed bikes and non-derailleur chains that won’t experience much strain or wear. On the other hand, master links are slightly harder to install but offer increased flexibility and adjustability, making them ideal for newer derailleur-equipped bikes as they can withstand more tensional force than pins. Regardless of which option you choose, be sure to pick up ones compatible with your bike’s speed and brand – proper compatibility helps ensure they’ll stay securely attached while riding.

2- Chain Wear Tool

A chain wear tool is an invaluable tool for cyclists, who want to keep their bikes in peak condition. Knowing when a chain needs to be replaced can make all the difference in terms of overall performance and ensuring that components are safe. To use the tool, a cyclist simply hooks one end over one roller while the other edge sits snugly in the opening between two rollers. The numbers on the tool provide an easy method of calculating whether or not the chain is worn enough to warrant replacement.

This makes it perfect for those who want to stay ahead of mechanical issues and maintain high levels of safety while riding. Considering how important it is to replace your chain regularly, investing in a good quality chain wear tool is undoubtedly an excellent decision for any serious biker.

3- Link Pilers

Master link plier is a smart tool for anyone dealing with chain connections and master links. These pliers make it easy to quickly and securely disconnect and reconnect a Master link, simplifying the process and relieving you of hassle. Whether you’re removing a chain from your bicycle or installing a chain onto engine components, these pliers will save you time and frustration. They ensure that the Master link connection is secure while also preventing damage to either the link itself or nearby components. So if you work with chains regularly, do yourself a favor and pick up some master link pliers; your future self will thank you!

How do you break a chain DIY?

It’s a little tricky to separate the links without chain breaker but possible with just a few basic tools. First, lay the side of your chain on a wooden block . Then take a metal punch or nail that is about the same diameter as the pin in your link and place it on the center of the pin. Hit accurately with a small hammer but be careful not to hit too hard since you want to move the pin without damaging it. You may find yourself needing to give it another tap if it hasn’t moved after your first try. Once you’ve gotten it started, slip a small nut into the hole underneath the chain with the pin in its center. Now start tapping away carefully; your goal should be to tap the pin through its middle piece while still leaving it connected to its lower layer. When that’s done, everything will come apart simply by pressing slightly on both sides until they pop free!

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