Half link in Argo chain

[Aussiebr]

I've just changed an axle (thanks RockDoctor, you tube video) The new chains were a night mare. I used altered vise grips, this was not easy (there has to be a better way! how do Argo do it?) and put a lot of strain on the chain which seems given the range of tension adjustment unnecessary and a great strain on bearings and housing. So whats the problem with inserting a half link.

[Mike]

If you were able to get the chains installed without using the half link, run them like that even if they are extremely tight. They will stretch over the first hour or two of riding and depending on what brand, they may even need to be tightened again. If you have to use a half link only run it like that until the chains stretch enough to remove it.

[Aussiebr]

Thank, Ive just had a look, more carefully this time in the manual and in the top corner they have a half link as an option (Ref 36 for a RC60-1 chain)
Thanks Brian

[russriders]

where is the chain u put it on and is new of old chain u put it on .

[CREEPFACE]

I HAD POSTED THIS REPLY ON A DIFFERENT THREAD, SO I WANTED TO PUT IT HERE AS WELL BEFORE I BUY ALL NEW CHAINS ....
My 1/2 cent... the argo manual does ref half link. as an option.. so it seems like the half link could be ok , to get the maximum life out of the chain and sprocklet.. plus swapping sides with the sprockets....... great idea ROCK DOC !!! . the price of good chain can really break the bank... escpecially at xmas time...LOL... soo has anyone documented the hours that they got out of their chains when a half link was used?

[Mike]

It's fine to run a half link when it's needed due to the distance between two sprockets when the chains are new but running one because the chains have stretched enough to require the half link is a different story.

[CREEPFACE]

Thnx to all...... argo.. pointed me to the wa-7.. In the service manual...Which said
The drive chains will stretch and wear after
extensive vehicle use, and cause a reduction in vehicle performance and a hazard to personal safety. Roller chain “stretch” results from wear to the chain pins and bushings because of the loss of lubricant.
1. Remove the front and rear floorpans.
2. Inspect the drive chains and replace, or remove a link and install a half link if enough chain stretch will allow it.