For My "02" 954, I am going to put on 520 spockets and chain.
Staying with 16 teeth on counter sproket and going up to 46 teeth on the rear from the stock 43.
Is there a rule of thumb for how many links the new chain should be? Going up 3 teeth, add 3 links over the stock chain? Trial & error fitment? What's the best approach?
Any recomendations for a chain link press for installing the riveted master link? I have a breaker tool.

Thanks
Rich

 

Rich I think that going up 3 teeth in the rear won't require using 3 additional links over stock chain. I went up 2 teeth in the rear and used the stock length chain with no problems. For 3 teeth I would say you would need one additional link over stock not including the master link.

However, just to be safe start by going up 2 links on the chain, then if you notice it's too long you can always cut one down, remember you can't add links but can always remove more as necessary.

I use the Motion pro kit for pressing on the new master link plate, and then the rivet adapter (same kit) to rivet the the pins on the new master link.

Hope that helps, let me know if you have any other questions.

Oh and on Afam's website (don't have the link handy), they have a chart that tells you how long to make the chain for whatever gearing you choose to go with.

Vic

 

Thanks Vic for the input.
I'll also check the AFAM site.
I was considering the Motion Pro presser tool.

Rich

 

Rich-

Just wanted to add something. The only thing I didn't like about Motion Pro's kit was the chain breaker (pin pusher). It was a little weak and don't think it was designed for the stronger 520 chains and definately NOT for the 530's(I broke a few push pins to learn this). If you get the kit I would highly recommend getting a more heavy duty chain breaker, which Motion pro also makes and you can get it cheap from places like Dennis Kirk (think I got mine there??).

A heavy duty breaker plus a motion pro chain press & rivet tool is a great combo and all you'll need for easy chain replacement.

If you need any other info or specifics feel free to get in touch.