How to fix the joining link to a new chain?

[AJWD]

Just got a new chain, which is just one length, and has the fixing link with it. How, why, where??!! Can I do it without some special gizmo??!!

Help needed (mental too!)

Cheers arr kids,
Adey.

[Sanmarcopizza]

Nope, you need a chain breaker. They don't cost too much though. Probably get one for about £4.I personally don't like split links and throw them away, preferring to permanetly close the chain using the tool.

[billstup]

You need a link extractor, get down to Halfords they should have one  

[AJWD]

Cheers guys. What's the rule of thumb on the length of the chain, and how do you know how to tailor it to the right size? I'm running a one piece crank if that makes any difference.

[Stevo]

The length will vary from bike to bike as all rear triangles vary in length.

When you fit the chain and tension it with chain tensioners or by hand the wheel axle should be near the centre of the slot in the rear drop outs. 

If the axle is near the end of the drop outs  the chain is too long and needs a link taken out with the aforementioned chain tool.

When removing links don't remove the rivet completely from the outer, just enough to take the inner bushing out. If you take the rivet out completely its very difficult to put back in again and if you do manage it you will probably push the outer sides in too close to the bushing resulting in a tight spot. 

If in doubt go to the local bike shop, like I do when all else fails. Most decent shops should be able to sort a BMX chain 

[Bob_Acid]

watch out, my local Halfords has the expensive ones under your nose and the cheap ones hidden in the corner under the Barbie bells

[cymruambyth]

steer clear of the Topeak Universal Chain Tool. total crap. mine broke first go! £8 too!

[dordymush]

lol i use a grinder very slowly  :santa_afro:.

[wirewheel]

split links break real easy. yeah get a chain breaker man. i got one i bought in 84 that still works fine. as for halfords stay well clear because they tend to put an extra ten quid on everything they sell. i needed a part for my car radio recently £4.25 at halfords, £1.50 at local place. i aint saying boycott the place or anything but  it will probably be cheaper elsewhere and a smaller local shop guy will probably show you how to use it properly.
halfords staff are usually underpaid, miserable and unhelpful at best, useless at worst.
god bless the small trader

[AJWD]

Thanks everyone. Went to my local bike shop, and he said he could do it for £3, so I'm copping out. Probably be down there tomorrow anyway as I'm fitting a Tioga sealed bottom bracket for the first time, and have'nt got a clue how it goes! If anyone has advice, or even better pictoral advice I would be muchly grateful.

Cheers,
Adey.

[weston]

i bought one from ebay yesterday £2.99