How do I fix a bike chain?

grey_high · 06-24-2007, 04:17 PM

My son's bike chain was a little loose and broke, and I need to put it back together. What tools do I need? Can I just pop out the silver pin holding the links together, and put it back in to complete the chain?

AviationMetalSmith · 06-24-2007, 04:17 PM

The tool you need for bicycle chains is called a "Chain Rivet Extractor".

However, if the chain broke, you need a new chain. Otherwise, it will be a link short. Often , rust will cause a chain to fail, so keep the bike out of the rain.

http://www.parktool.com/products/category.asp?cat=5

This is a link to Park Tool, the industry leader in bike tools, the chain tool page of the website.
The chain tools with long handles are more expensive, but they are for production work.
For the average bike owner, the screw type is recommended. It's a little slower , but your not building eighteen bikes a day.

If the chain has a master link, you might not need the tool, but Park Tool also has a tool for master links as well.

AviationMetalSmith · 06-24-2007, 04:17 PM

The tool you need for bicycle chains is called a "Chain Rivet Extractor".

However, if the chain broke, you need a new chain. Otherwise, it will be a link short. Often , rust will cause a chain to fail, so keep the bike out of the rain.

http://www.parktool.com/products/category.asp?cat=5

This is a link to Park Tool, the industry leader in bike tools, the chain tool page of the website.
The chain tools with long handles are more expensive, but they are for production work.
For the average bike owner, the screw type is recommended. It's a little slower , but your not building eighteen bikes a day.

If the chain has a master link, you might not need the tool, but Park Tool also has a tool for master links as well.

Chris · 06-24-2007, 04:17 PM

It depends on the chain type and bike type. Is this a derailer setup or single speed. Does the chain have a master link? Is this a shimano chain? You can consider getting a new chain which is probably overdue anyway which is likely why it broke. If this is a multigear system the chain is probably stretched out and you should replace it to avoid damaging the chain rings on the cassette.

If it's a cheap bike and chain and you really don't want to just buy a new chain get a master link from the bike shop. If you want to put the pin back in you need a chain tool which you can get at any bike shop and a massive amount of patience to get it right.