chain tools

[Jeff P]

So my '96 has 16k miles and the chain has definitely developed some tight spots/kinks.  Shop wants almost $250 for a new chain and labor to replace.  I see that I can get an RK "RX" ring 520XSO in the 110 link size for $66 and new sprokets (JT 16T front for $14 and a Sunstar 39T rear for $43) from Chaparall, so grand total of around $120. 

This leaves me with needing a tool for installing the new chain.  It seems my choices are to:
1) have a friendly GStwin'er loan me one 
2) get the standard Motion Pro set for ~$80 http://www.amazon.com/Motion-Pro-Chain-Riveting-Tool/dp/B001DDD6AY
3) buy one of these no-name sets for ~$40
http://www.ebay.com/itm/MOTORCYCLE-ATV-CHAIN-CUTTER-BREAKER-RIVETING-RIVET-TOOL-/170824365362?hash=item27c5ecf532&item=170824365362&pt=Motorcycles_Parts_Accessories&vxp=mtr
http://www.ebay.com/itm/MOTORCYCLE-CHAIN-BREAKER-AND-RIVET-TOOL-KIT-STOCKTON-/300690061382?_trksid=p4340.m503&_trkparms=algo%3DRIC.CFNP%26its%3DI%26itu%3DUA%26otn%3D5%26pmod%3D320881348427%26ps%3D63%26clkid%3D7761189950042840632

I have read a lot of the old threads on this subject and I think option #2 above is probably the safe bet, but #1 would be nice and I'd happily go with #3 if there's any good feedback on these el cheapo sets.  Thoughts?  Thanks guys,

jeff

[bombsquad83]

I bought the same chain and I'm using one of the clip style master links.  Wasn't too bad to install with a C-clamp and a socket to press the link on, then pliers to push on the clip.  I've ridden it pretty hard lately and the clip hasn't budged.  Just have to be sure that you clip it on in the correct orientation.

[gsJack]

I've always used the clip type master links on replacement chains and back 27-28 years ago the loose link plate had a slip fit on the master links but they are a heavy press fit now and I also use the c-clamp/socket method to press them on.  I cut the oem continuous chains off with a hack saw with high quality blade, no electricity in my garage for grinder type tool.

I've never replaced a rear sprocket on any bike having put 80-100k miles on three of them.  I replace the front sprocket every 2nd or 3rd chain.  Many will dissagree on that though.

Also there is much debate on clip type master links vs those riveted on with a tool.  I've never had a problem with the clip type, the important things are to press the side plate on the clip master far enough so the clip will go completly into the groove and then to putt the clip on with open end trailing in normal rotation.

[cbrfxr67]

My master link clip style flew off and my chain went shortly thereafter.  I humbly admit that I put the clip on backwards, at least that's what one of my ex-motomechanic turned Cornwell dealer customer told me,...oops.

[applecrew]

 

I know there will be some who disagree, but I also use the clip-style master link and have not had one fail in 50,000 + miles of usage.


Mike

[burning1]

The ebay tool you linked is a reproduction of the motion-pro kit. I generally won't buy it out of principal - selling out the innovators of my country and all that.

[Jeff P]

The ebay tool you linked is a reproduction of the motion-pro kit. I generally won't buy it out of principal - selling out the innovators of my country and all that.

I tend to think along these lines too.  I will make exceptions if the brand name product is make overseas (ie China) and yet is still sold at a substantial premium.  Anyone know where Motion Pro manufactures?

There's also this smaller Motion Pro set (model 08-0467) which they say is for 520 chains with "hollow nose master links" (as opposed to "solid nose" ?) for ~$60 from Amazon. 

As for the type of link, the RK chain seems only to come as a rivet type.  No mention of clips on their website.  However Chaparral does carry an EK X-chain (520 SRX) for $75, which per EK's website has a standard rivet master link but optional clip or screw types - I'm intrigued by the screw type, seems to offer the advantages of the rivet with the no-special-tools required ease of the clip.  Haven't seen them discussed around here, anyone have any thoughts on those?  Saw some very positive & detailed writeups on a VFR board. 

jeff

[DaMuffinMan]

 
I'm intrigued by the screw type, seems to offer the advantages of the rivet with the no-special-tools required ease of the clip.  Haven't seen them discussed around here, anyone have any thoughts on those?  Saw some very positive & detailed writeups on a VFR board. 

jeff
[/quote]
i have a EK screw-rivet link on my ZRX1100. I've put about 2,000 miles on it so far, no problems.

[gsJack]

My chain before last was a RX-XSO that I bought from Chaparral after the DID chain with clip link that I had bought 8 previous times from Chaparral went way up in price.  Chaparral assured me the RK would come with a clip link and when it came from Chaparral with a rivet link only I called them for the clip link and they told me there was no longer a clip link and I should take the chain to a dealer to get it installed.      I then bought an RK-XSO clip type link from Dennis Kirk to install my Chaparral RK chain and bought my next chain from Dennis Kirk too.  I also use to buy a lot of tires from Chaparral but don't do business there any more now.