Chain riveter

[amontyg]

I just purchased a new chain and sprockets but the chain I got has to be riveted. I have never done this before and have no idea how or what tools are required. Any information would be helpful.

[Griffin]

Get a clip type master link for the chain. It has to be for that specific brand and model of chain. They usually run about $5 or so and you should be able to get it where you bought your chain.

[zathros]

Make sure you pit the clip with the closed end going in the direction of the chain when moving forward. Some are drilled for safety wire, it's a good idea to do that too.

[tkent02]

I just purchased a new chain and sprockets but the chain I got has to be riveted. I have never done this before and have no idea how or what tools are required. Any information would be helpful.

You can peen the link by hand, it is safer than using a clip link. Search the archives, there is a lot of info.

[Zooks]

You can peen the link by hand, it is safer than using a clip link. Search the archives, there is a lot of info.

Agreed. A lot of motorcycle racing clubs have banned the clips now because they have a tendency to come out. You can buy the proper tool for not much money or do it by hand as tkent said.

[zathros]

I have seen many people bind up the link when peening. Everyone has to try something for the first time but I have around 300,000 miles on motorcycles as I worked for a dealership for years, had many demo bikes and my 2 motorcycles add up to 110,000 miles. I have never lost a master link. A press fit pin with the proper tool is an excellent way to go. I think for most people master links work fine. You really have to make sure it is clean, new, and seated proper in place when finished.

[chef1366]

I used a punch, a hammer and a mallet behind the link. I couldn't keep a clip type on for my life.
I have way too much time and money in my motor to trash it with a cheap master link.

[tkent02]

I couldn't keep a clip type on for my life.
I have way too much time and money in my motor to trash it with a cheap master link.

My last lost clip was found stuck in the grease on top of the swingarm. Dunno how long it was there.
I was wondering if it would have stayed there when the master link parted and the bike highsided into an unknown dimension.
Endless chains, or a riveted clip for me. Highsides hurt even if you do stick the landing.

[isleoman]

Have had master links come off multiple times. If your going to use a clip at least get some safety wire and wire the center of the clip to the link. It will give you some additional insurance

Had a clip come off the master link on my 1100 chain at about 100 mph while passing multiple cars with my wife on the back. The chain got spit off the back without breaking any cases or locking up the rear wheel. Luckily we just coasted to a stop. That was the last time I ever used a master link with clip. A good quality chain splitter and riveting tool (like DID's) is about $60.

[zathros]

I have only used D.I.D. chains. never had any problems. I don't do 100 with the wife on the back of my bike either.
I have gone faster by myself, but that's different.

[max parsons]

Just use a pair of multigrips and squeeze.leave the same amount of pin showing as the chin links have.

[chef1366]

Just use a pair of multigrips and squeeze.leave the same amount of pin showing as the chin links have.

Multigrip = vicegrip???

[Larry D]

Multigrip = vicegrip???

Crikey !!!!! Is this a new word from down unda ??

[Sandy]

Even without the proper tool riveting is relatively easy. I use the old side plate as a spacer over the new one and a pair of visegrips or channel lock pliers to press the side plate on. Then before I put the rear wheel back on I slide my trusty 18" piece of railway track for something to hit against in place and peen the rivel with a couple of good firm well placed whacks with a hammer. With practice you can even duplicate the four little peen marks from the factory.

[zathros]

I too have a piece of train track. I think anyone who fabricates should have a piece of train track. It is a most useful tool.

I had a friend who had a stable of Nortons. He would peen the pin ( a little mushroom head). I'm sticking to Master Links, the D.I.D. ones are excellent and if you safety wire them it's easier and they will not come off.

On the bicycles/trikes I make I have a nice tool for pressing the pins in. I don't know if there is that option for motorcycles.