norm92de wrote on 05/20/16 at 17:05:55:Why wouldn't it be possible to simply break the chain and feed in a new one? Surely it is possible to re-rivet a cam chain???
The problem is obvious, the simple solution, as you say, build a chain with a master link. I'm pretty sure that since the problem exists and is obvious but nobody offers the replacement chain in any form other than one piece. I don't really see why not either.
I know what hazards a master link cause, but I don't see why it wouldn't work. The thing is, it's a built in weak spot on an already stressed, CRITICAL area. The liability for the manufacturer could be considerable.
The scene
Long, decreasing radius sweeper, guy, tucking tighter, dropping gears, matching revs, and the cam chain parts, engine causes the rear tire to slide out, he gets hurt,
Then, figure out how the weight difference in the master link affects the chain, zooming around gears, sliding up and down guides,
And, no, nobody has what it takes to join a chain that is installed. Nobody can access it and pound a peined end rivet in.
If someone can, it's a rare bird. I'm not that bird.