Shimano quick link removal.

[Alfmeister]

Hi,
I’m new to modern emtb equipment, is it ok to remove a Shimano chain with quick link, to clean it on a regular basis, or will the quick link quickly wear out? I was thinking as part of my chain maintenance, I could remove chain to clean it.

 

[2WheelsNot4]

Yes.
Get yourself a set of quicklink pliers. That will ensure you cause no damage to it when removal/refitting.
Pliers are usually about a tenner, which is pretty cheap for sure a handy tol

 

[Alfmeister]

Cheers for reply, got the required pliers already, so will from now on, be removing chain for cleaning.

 

[Jackware]

To add to @2WheelsNot4 reply, quick links are meant to be one-time use, but I and I expect others reuse them at least a few times, but always carry at least one spare for unexpected chain repairs.

 

[steve_sordy]

I have found no need to remove the chain for cleaning. When I used to do so, it did not add to the life of the chain. I do however clean and lube the chain after every ride. I run the chain several times through an old towel to drag off any muck. Squeeze the sides and the rollers. Then I lube the chain with a wet lube. I no longer use my Parktool chain cleaning device.

As for the quick links, I remove the chain for measuring wear and reuse the quick link. I do that until the chain is done and then fit a new chain and quicklink. I keep the old quick link in my backpack for emergencies of my own, or those of others.

 

[whitymon]

Useless to remove the chain from the bike to clean it. Never done it.

The only valid reason would be for people that wax melt it to it but this is not something you would do on a basis.

Degrease, brush, clean, dry, lube, ride.