Chain length

[bobbalee]

specs call for 118 links. Mine has 120. Is this right? Does the master link add two links to the chain?

[TLRam1]

You bought the 530x120, correct?

If it is calling for 118 you would take links out. If your old chain is the correct link, lay the new chain beside the old one, you will be able to see how much needs to be cut out of your new chain, factor in the master link as you would with the old chain.

[bobbalee]

It's the chain on the bike. Harry said it was stretched but it and the sprockets just don't look that worn to me. So I counted the links. If someone made the chain from a roll,as some shops may do, it could be too long.
I bought a chain that is 118, or so marked, but it's sealed and I don't want to open it until I need it. I thought someone would have noticed this before me.
New chain is a 530 x 118.

[TLRam1]

You should be set then. If you have the 118 that makes it easier than cutting one down.

I rarely change sprockets when I change a chain, counter-shaft sprocket will be the first to show wear or should be. 

Which chain model and brand did you buy?

[bobbalee]

Bike Master BMOR chain. 530 x 18

[bobbalee]

 When you add the master link to a 118 do you then have 120 links?

[bobbalee]

My reasoning is that a stretched chain will be a worn chain. There would be lateral movement as well as play in the links, which I don't have.

[TLRam1]

I think the 118 includes the master link.

I have never counted links in a chain, always laid them side by side and lined up the pins. If the numbers don't match, cutting two links out of a 120 chain, I realign. Never had one stretch where the links were that far out.

You don't want to cut it too short, always been pretty easy to figure out.   

[bobbalee]

You need to count the links in your chain Terry. Just so you'll know.