KMC Missing link

[Dangermouse]

OK it is supposed to split really easy, it doesn't and I have had the compressor pliers on it and it broke them, so without using a chain splitter, how can I get this thing split...........

 

[smokeysmoo]

They can be a faff sometimes IME, try squeezing the plates together, (inward), and sliding them at the same time. Not the easiest manouevre but it's always worked for me.

 

[eck]

A goodly skoosh of Magic Spray (TM) can help to loosen it up.

 

[dave2041]

Squeeze together first is KEY!

 

[Mike!]

I had to buy a pair of the proper separating pliers to do mine! No amount of squeezing, pushing and pulling would budge it!

 

[Pikey]

+1 for the special pliers

 

[Smurfy]

Get the tension off the link first.
http://www.tredz.co.uk/.Ice-Toolz-Foldable-Chain-Hook_37717.htm

Or just make your own from a wire coat hanger!
http://www.ebay.com/itm/TOPEAK-Thir...l-Holder-HEXUS-Type-Replacement-/380436879292

 

[Peteaud]

It is a knack, but you do not need special tools.

Make sure the link is well lubed, WD40 or similar
Squeeze the chain, push the links together and try to break its neck motion.


View: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NG2WW5CTIqc

 

[the_mikey]

I removed a 10 speed KMC quicklink by hand last week when I Mickled the chain, as said above it helps if you squeeze the two sides plates together, then with a little bit of manipulation the two plates can be separated.

 

[Broadside]

I always get the missing link meticulously clean with a baby wipe first and then just remove by hand. If there is any crud around the pins it can be enough to stop the side plate pushing in and sliding along.

 

[slowmotion]

I can usually get them apart by squeezing the plates together and then sliding but on my new chain I just couldn't get them to budge. I went out and bought some KMC link pliers.

 

[Shut Up Legs]

I use a Wipperman Connex link, and have never had trouble removing or reconnecting it, and it never comes off by itself. Perhaps you could try one of those instead?

 

[grimpeur]

Suspect the chain in the video shown above is in fact a 9 speed and not the more troublesome 10 speed. The 9 speed ones are easy to release by hand.
The KMC 10 speed quick link seems to be a more stubborn beast often requiring more cunning methods to remove.
Thought I would post a video of one easy way to release the link at the roadside with the minimum of stress:

View: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iztxyrnOyyU

 

[HLaB]

I usually take the tension off with a topeak tool and if stubborn use a pair of pliers to squeeze the links, so I have a spare hand to press the sidewalls. Sometimes however, they just slide apart with my fingers

 

[accountantpete]

I make my own tool out of part of a spoke - bend in half and then half way down each side bend a U shaped section which connect with the link leaving two protruding stalks which can be pinched together whilst also squeezing the plates together.