Quick Link (removal) tool - experiences / recs ?

[Airsporter1st]

.............. but how does it work?
I can't see how it can compress the sides to unlatch them.

You can't just push the link due to it being locked. If you can, your link must be worn.

For removal, I squeeze the two side plates towards each other, using finger and thumb of my left hand whilst closing the tool with my right. For fitting, everything is clean (or should be) and even with my old eyes its easy to ensure that thin part of the plates are engaged with the grooves in the pins, before using the tool to finally lock the QL into position.

[Mick F]

Ok, so what do you need the tool for?
If the link is unlocked, it moves.

I squeeze mine, then push the link ends towards each other.
Hey presto.

If the chain is dirty, it's more difficult, but I've never needed a tool.

[Brucey]

QLs vary quite a bit. NRU ones are usually much, much, tighter going on and coming off.

I will happily use ordinary pliers/standing on the pedals to do the job, but it is probably easier with a tool that is designed specifically for the purpose.

BTW on the road, to repair a broken chain, using a QL, you have to be able to remove the side plates from the broken link (brute force, or chain tool) and then fit the QL. Since most links can be fitted easily enough, no need to carry a special tool for the QL.

Also since it is a 'get you home' it probably doesn't matter if the QL is a new one or a worn one, for a temporary repair.

cheers

[Airsporter1st]

Ok, so what do you need the tool for?
If the link is unlocked, it moves.

I squeeze mine, then push the link ends towards each other.
Hey presto.

If the chain is dirty, it's more difficult, but I've never needed a tool.

I guess if you've never needed a tool, then you won't need one now. However, KMC themselves recommend the use of tools, http://www.kmcchain.com/en/technical.php (scroll down for missing link instructions), so I am happy to continue using mine for the controllability they provide.