Break chain without chain tool?

[Mutineer]

Can you break a chain without a chain tool? I am thinking about just trying to push the pin out with a punch or grind off the top of the pin.

Anyone try it and have any tips?

[steves]

A large pair of bolt cutters.

I've ground the pin and tapped it with a drift. Sucks bad and takes forever.

[diavolo]

I have cut my chain using a 4 1/2" grinder fitted with a masonry diamond blade - cut like a hot knife through butter. Even a dremel will work to grind the peen of the pin down so it can be pressed/punched out of the chain.

[cintidude04]

Dremel or angle grinder.

[95GSX600noob]

I used a big cut off wheel, but I had no reasion to save my chain..

[Mutineer]

Great! thanks for the replies.

Anyone have any suggestions on a reasonably priced chain with a master link plate that does not need to be pressed on?

[cintidude04]

I will only use rivet master links. The only time I believe a clip type master link should be used is if you dont have the chain tool to press the rivet yourself and are riding up to a shop to have a rivet master link installed.

[92GSX750]

/\ /\ I agree 100%

[scottynoface]

Dremel the pin, takes two minutes.

I use clip links on dirtbikes but never a streetbike.

[steves]

Clip links are good on dirt bikes, because you can take the chain off and clean it after you get it covered in dirt and gunk.

[Mutineer]

Is there any way to mushroom the pins without a chain tool or should I just take it to a shop and have them press the pins?

[steves]

Most chain tools are meant for installing tools, so yes. Check out the chain how-to in the how'to section.

[thunderfoot1978]

If you know what you're doing a torch works wonders. Don't get too close to the tire!