Do you count master link in overall chain length?

[xsephirot]

So I'm replacing my sprockets and installing a new chain. Just doing standard 15front and 41 rear. I know I need a 104 link chain. The chain I ordered is 110 so I'm jsut wondering do I cut it down to 104 or 103 before adding the master link?

[stopintime]

Yes.

.. and no 

Without the master link, #1 and #104 are just holes.

[xsephirot]

Haha thanks for the quick response. I guess I sort of understand since it looks staggered.

[stopintime]

Yeah 

Another way to do it is to count number of outer plates, including the master link, and multiply by two.

[xsephirot]

Yeah 

Another way to do it is to count number of outer plates, including the master link, and multiply by two.

Ah so if I'm doing the math right. I want 52 outer plates including the master link in that count. Or 51 without.

[brad black]

fit the sprockets, roll the chain through and see where it needs to be cut with the wheel in your desired position.  that way you know it won't be 1 too short.

[xsephirot]

fit the sprockets, roll the chain through and see where it needs to be cut with the wheel in your desired position.  that way you know it won't be 1 too short.

Ah thanks! 

[Privateer]

fit the sprockets, roll the chain through and see where it needs to be cut with the wheel in your desired position.  that way you know it won't be 1 too short.

ever since I ordered a bigger sprocket by mistake and cut the chain based on the old one, this is the way I do it.  Make sure you push the chain slack adjusters all the way forward when you're checking the new chain.

[NAKID]

fit the sprockets, roll the chain through and see where it needs to be cut with the wheel in your desired position.  that way you know it won't be 1 too short.

This!

[Privateer]

i did a write up last week'ish - http://twoslow.com/2015/04/monster-chain-sprockets/

not perfect, i didn't photo a few steps, and I don't have all the best tool options, but I get it done.

[xsephirot]

i did a write up last week'ish - http://twoslow.com/2015/04/monster-chain-sprockets/

not perfect, i didn't photo a few steps, and I don't have all the best tool options, but I get it done.

Thanks! Hope you posted it on the tutorial section.

Quick question: is there a reason to always cut the old chain from the master link? Wouldn't it be easier just to undo one of the normal linkages if you are throwing away the old chain?

[Privateer]

Quick question: is there a reason to always cut the old chain from the master link? Wouldn't it be easier just to undo one of the normal linkages if you are throwing away the old chain?

always is a long time.

I find the masterlink is easier to cut/grind off the mushroom'd rivets than the factory machined rivets.  If I had an angle grinder or a Big Effing bolt cutter, I'd cut it where ever I could.  YMMV