What's the best way to remove the master link plate after it's pressed on?
 

Here's my dilema:
I always have trouble getting the master link plate off after it has been pressed on. I use a chain press tool which is great for pressing the master link together. However, when it comes time to disassemble the chain... that outer plate is a pain to get off. Also, if you over drive the plate slighter during assembly and want to back it off a little bit... what's the best method to use?

My current method is typically to take a big screw driver and try to pry the plate from side-to-side. Slowly, I get it to walk its way off of the master link pins. Since this may cause the oring seals to get damaged, there has to be a better method.

What do you guys do?

I usually just grind the ends of the pins off.

Yep that's what I did til I woke up and started using split links instead

No crap no hassle and never heard of anyone's coming off

I should have stated that this is a non-riveted master link. I use the kind with a slide-on clip. After taking off the clip, you now have to get the plate off... this is when the struggle begins.

Do you guys use screwdrivers, another tool, etc. to get the plate off?

That's odd Matt
It should just pull off, maybe one or both of the pins are mishappen

They do have to be pulled off square though, if it's tight then I'd guess a screwdriver behind the plate would help

I use a non O-ring master link on my O-ring chain.

I just gently walk them off with a screwdriver same as you. If your carefull you won't damage the rings.

No way you'll get DID VM series links off without somesort of tool (and yes I mean the split clip type). They actually press on. Can't install without tools either.

chain&links
 

i have a 2004 450 fse and it does not have a master link. i am the second owner. is this style chain O. E. M.? as for removing the master link. rotate rear wheel so the link is on the rear sprocket,pull clip then TAP the link out.

Matt,

Just use a chain breaker. I have a large one and just work each pin a turn at a time until its free. Works fine.

I was afraid chain breaker would bend the master link since the other pin is attached. But like you said, if you do it one turn per pin then it should work ok. I'll give that a try next time. The screwdriver method works but seems like a caveman approach.