Taking the plunge(powder coating).

[wisdom]

Well finally decided to strip down the old steel framed orbit roadbike which is about 20 years old. I am going to get it powder coated and get some new decals for it.Restore it as its a lovely old bike.
The quill stem freed off ok and even better the seat post came free after a bit of work.(phew ).
To continue I need to split the chain.It has a kmc link and i dont have the special pliers, whats the best way to open it?

 

[biggs682]

Well finally decided to strip down the old steel framed orbit roadbike which is about 20 years old. I am going to get it powder coated and get some new decals for it.Restore it as its a lovely old bike.
The quill stem freed off ok and even better the seat post came free after a bit of work.(phew ).
To continue I need to split the chain.It has a kmc link and i dont have the special pliers, whats the best way to open it?

you can still use an old fashioned chain splitter

 

[Drago]

Cut it off, treat it to a new one

 

[boydj]

I can always get the KMC links open with normal pliers. However, if the chain is old and rusty, then follow @Drago's advice.

 

[Tim Hall]

Just Fingers should do it, but if they don't do it, reposition the chain so the quick link skips a tooth on the chainring and it pointing up, like a shark fin. Tap it with a hammer, or likely looking rock, and it should open.

 

[themosquitoking]

Normal needle nosed pliers will get it open.

 

[wisdom]

Just Fingers should do it, but if they don't do it, reposition the chain so the quick link skips a tooth on the chainring and it pointing up, like a shark fin. Tap it with a hammer, or likely looking rock, and it should open.

This was the method I used and it worked fine first tap.Couldnt shift it with pliers as also suggested.Thanks everyone another learning curve.

 

[PatrickPending]

I had a 1974 Carlton powder coated about 7 years back - good finish and still looks good - even after 27000Km commuting to/from Coventry....

 

[wisdom]

In relation to getting everything stripped ready for powder coating.The chrome bottom race on the bottom of the headtube. Does this come off if so how? Preferably not damaged as it's in good nick.

 

[Tim Hall]

You should be able to remove it by inserting a suitable drift or old screwdriver in from the top, catching the edge of it and gently tapping with a hammer. Work your way round, leaning the drift on the opposite top edge of the head tube. Move it bit by bit, rather than great lumps, otherwise you run the risk of distorting the head tube.

Or you can use the proper tool,but for a one off I wouldn't bother.

Is there a similar race on the top end of the head tube?

 

[wisdom]

You should be able to remove it by inserting a suitable drift or old screwdriver in from the top, catching the edge of it and gently tapping with a hammer. Work your way round, leaning the drift on the opposite top edge of the head tube. Move it bit by bit, rather than great lumps, otherwise you run the risk of distorting the head tube.

Or you can use the proper tool,but for a one off I wouldn't bother.

Is there a similar race on the top end of the head tube?

No Its inset on the top.
Thanks for the quick reply its off now.