I finally snapped a chain on a hill climb and it cost me way more than it should have

I was grinding up a steep gravel road near Mill Creek Park last Saturday when my chain gave out at the worst spot, no warning at all. Had to walk 2 miles back to the truck and pay $45 for a new chain at the shop since I didn't have a spare link in my kit. Anyone else carry a quick link on them now after a similar blowout?

2 comments

2 Comments

terryrobinson10h ago

$45 for a chain seems steep, shop must be charging shop rate for that.

hannah38510h ago

Terry, I'm curious about what kind of chain we're talking here because $45 could be a solid deal or a total ripoff depending on the brand and where you're buying it from. I mean, if it's some heavy duty logging chain from a place like Tractor Supply, that price might actually be average for a longer length. But if it's just a basic tow chain from a hardware store, yeah that does seem like a lot for something you can pick up for half that at Harbor Freight. @terryrobinson, do you know if this was for a specific use like towing or for securing a load on a trailer? Because I've noticed shops around here will absolutely charge shop rate for stuff like chains or straps since they know you're in a bind and need it right then. Maybe it's just me but I'd rather order online and wait a couple days than pay that markup unless I really needed it that same day.