[Incubus]

...I frequently change chainring and cassette sizes which often necessitates my adding removing links from my SRAM chain. I've often used Shimano replacement pins (the breakoff type) to add links.

The other day however, I sent myself hurtling into my stem when my chain snapped in a technical area. I can't say for sure whether the spot at which the chain broke was where there was a Shimano pin or not.

I already use a powerlink, but don't necessarily want more than one on there.

Do Shimano pins work with SRAM chains?

TIA,
incubus

 

[SwisSlesS]

I never use the Shimano pins and I often don't even use power links. I've never broken a chain. I still don't see why they tell you not to just push the same pin in and out.

 

[sub6]

Shimano chains are narrower than SRAM by a bit, so I'd imagine that on a SRAM chain, the Shimano pin would be a little too short, thus creating an opportunity for breakage.

What's wrong with running more than one powerlink? I see nothing wrong with them; they seem to hold up just fine for me. I'm not a chain-breaking type of rider though....



Swissless - you aren't supposed to use the old pin because pushing it out removes the mushrooming from the end of the pin, which then makes it easy for the plates to slip off it which is what causes a breakage.

 

[oldfart]

Yeah swiss. I just broke a Dura Ace chain which I had shortened without using a proper pin. Too lazy to go buy one from a shop so it was my fault. When you push a shimano pin back in, as said the mushrooming is destroyed resulting in a weak spot. Nothing to hold the pin in but friction. Plus more often than not the outer plate is also damaged. The hole gets distorted a bit or larger and the plate itself is often bent. None of that helps chain strength.

I'd recommend two chains. Should work quite well if your swapping back and forth often.

I have heard of people using SRAM or Wipperman power links on other chains with no problems. If one power link works well, two won't hurt.

 

[Incubus]

I guess 2 power-links it will be then.

I should throw out my Shimano chains all together.