Master link wire

[kurt w]

On some roler chain there is a wire used in the master link looks like a S when bent, it always brakes when you remove it, so was woundering just what kind of wire it is and were to find some.

[saltmine]

Depends on the size and type of the roller chain.

PTO chain like they use on a tow truck is usually annealed Iron wire, or Mechanics wire. It's soft and usually does break when you flex it a few times.

Most of the older auto parts stores have a few rolls on hand. If memory serves, it's available in several diameters and sometimes you can get stainless.... Most of the time, when I worked in the shop, we used .036" MIG welding wire...Probably better than Mechanics wire...but, it was always available...

[kurt w]

Never though of mig wire, although mine will be too small (.045 ). Its like a big bike chain only used as a feeder and if it fales 12 48" steel bar and 54" of chain can go throu a $250,000 machine. Not an a good thing.

[Big Bob]

Have you considered Stainless TIG wire? It's available in many diameters in 3' lengths. Probablly not suitable for reuse due to metal fatigue, but cheap to keep around.
Big Bob

[kurt w]

Big Bob I'll give that a try.