Having trouble installing new master link

I bought a new chain and sprocket and am having trouble installing the clip on the new masterlink. The issue is the grooves that the clip is supposed to seat into are not exposed enough for the clip to secure itself.

I took it off to examine and see that the outside link won't even go down far enough to allow the groves to be exposed for the clip to seat in. I can't even get it down below the groves with pliers (see second pic). Am I doing something wrong? What am I missing?

Ok, I thought I didn't need one but I guess I do. Will order one today. Was hoping to get it in one last ride before the snow falls tomorrow here in Chicago but guess not. Thanks

Master link plates need to be pressed on, sometimes pliers are not up to the job. Buy a tool like this or improvise your own.
http://www.rockymountainatvmc.com/p/43/-/171/756/-/3002/Tusk-Chain-Press-Tool/MASTER LINK TOOL

BTW - You are using o-rings with that correct? An o-ring chain should use an o-ring master link.

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Yeah...using the master link that came with the chain, both have o-rings. Just ordered my press...and a second masterlink cuz I snapped the clip trying to get it on.

A pair of large channel locks that will grip the two plates on the flats of the pliers will also work. BTDT.
Vicegrips might even work.

The proper tool is obviously the best solution, but sometimes we have to mcgyver.

I tried large channel locks and vice grips last time on my chain. I wound up going down to the shop and buying a chain press. Saved me a hernia and tons of time.

While you are waiting for your press, you can grab a 6mm or 1/4"nut and place it over the pin and squish it with vice grips or a small c clamp. You may need to do both pins this way until the groove is exposed on the opposite pin. Once the closed side of the clip is in the groove on one side the clamp can be released and the clip rotated into position. Then just push the clip in the other groove while compessing the side plate a little again with pliers. It is much easier to do, than to explain how.

I went totally anal and got the whole setup to rivet the master link. Overkill for sure but a good excuse to add to the tool inventory!

Rivets are tricky in their own way. You have to make sure the rivet is solid, but not sticking out too much or it may not clear. Too narrow and you have other problems.

All good points. Have have gotten pretty good at it and the quality of the tool makes a difference as well. I have the RK unit.

I know a couple of older guys who ream the link plate so it just slides right on.
Not something I'm gonna do, but they have never had any trouble with this approach.

Problem with this is you are putting all your trust in the clip and allowing the plate vibratory movement against it. Press fit is the way to go - have even come across a link or two that have lost the clip but still holding due to press fit coverplate.

what he said.

I have a deluxe Motion Pro chain kit at home, but on the trail I depend on a good set of pliers to press the link plate.

When I replace the chain I use an RK XSO x-ring chain, and it comes with a rivet link that you need a chain tool to peen. Those have never let me down.

+1
My master link clip was found missing when washing my bike after a day of single track. Out of the woods I slabbed it 65 miles home cruising 60-70mph. Sure glad that link was pressed on real good. Otherwise could've had an ugly incident if the chain had flung and locked up the wheel.

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+1 on Silver Bullet's comment. I too one time discovered that my clip was missing while in the middle of nowhere. That's the first time in a lifetime of riding that it has happened, and I have to assume that I just didn't get the clip seated properly. 'First mistake I ever made! Regardless, the side plate was still there doing it's job, because it was pressed on. Get the right tools and use them.

I still haven't discovered a slick way of removing the link. You can use a press to ease it out a little at a time, first one pin and then the other, or, as I do, get the link onto the sprocket and use a punch and a hammer and tap each side to ease it out. Have to be careful not to bend the sprocket so light blows are needed. Anyone else have a better way? I would like it if the press makers would make adapters to press the pins out, but I haven't found such a thing yet.

only works on certain chains.. 530 chains will not pop with screw driver.. at least not on my r1.. just get a chain tool makes it so much easier

i did the same on my drz.. but for reference it may not work on certain or larger chains or brand.. for sure i would try it first.. but it would be ideal to have a chain tool for those who prefer rivited master link.. instead of clip link