New chain... Need help with spring clip connecting link

[SixSpeedSquirrel]

I am installing a new chain on my 2001 GS500. It's a Regina O-Ring chain with a spring-clip master link. I already cut off the old chain, replaced the sprockets, and threaded the new chain on.

The problem is, I can't figure out how my spring clip connecting link works. I have looked online, read the box that came with the chain, and even read the detailed instructions on Regina's website. I can fit the link through the proper holes and get everything lined up, but the loose gold link that is supposed to go over the end of the prongs does not fit very snugly. As the Regina manual says, it stops at a certain point because the diameter of the prongs are deisigned that way. But when I hold the link at this point, it is almost flush with the end of the prongs. There is less than 1mm of the prongs sticking out. There is physically no way for me to install the spring clip on top of this, because the grooves in the prongs are not even close to exposed. On top of this, the gap underneath the gold link is much larger than it should be. I know it is supposed to fit down over the O-Rings, but that is not happening.

Any suggestions? Did I get the correct hardware, and I am just mucking it up?

PS please don't respond by telling me to just get a rivet-type masteer link. That's not helpful to me right now because I definitely don't have the tools for that.

[beRto]

I think the plate needs to be pressed into place. This old post from Kerry may help to explain (lots of photos):
http://gstwins.com/gsboard/index.php?topic=11925.msg100101#msg100101

[SixSpeedSquirrel]

Thanks for all the info... that's exactly what I was looking for. I have been researching all morning and now I see what needs to be done.

[beRto]

Thanks for all the info... that's exactly what I was looking for. I have been researching all morning and now I see what needs to be done.