Opening & Closing a Chain Link ?

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This is a welding 101 question for you guys.  My welding experience is limited, but I have done a good bit of fork lift repair with 7018 just to let you know my limited experience.I picked up some 1/4" proof chain and need to open and close a few links.  I want the result to be as strong as possible.o   Will the proof chain be soft enough to pry open and press closed again once it's cut?o   Is there a recommended way to cut it to leave a bevel for a weld or should I just make a narrow cut at a right angle?o   Would it be okay to just cut across the outside of the link to leave a 45 degree bevel on the outside and place my weld there?o   Will it be effectively any stronger to use 7018AC with my AC crackle box, rather than 6011?I am getting close to finishing the refurbishing of a Miller Bluestar, so if I'm done, I'll have a DC welder to use, but I'm not counting on it.  I might be limited to the crackle box.Thanks for tolerating my elementary question.Doc"I live so far out in the boondocks, my TV runs on Propane."
Reply:High strength chain won't hold up well to welding under serious loads most times. To do it right you need to use repair links that are rated for the chain type you are using.You might want to look at this thread. It covers a number of chain repair options.http://weldingweb.com/vbb/showthread.php?t=160431.No government ever voluntarily reduces itself in size. Government programs, once launched, never disappear. Actually, a government bureau is the nearest thing to eternal life we'll ever see on this earth! Ronald Reagan
Reply:I have no acces to pics right now, but at work we use these split links all the time, they kind of snap together like a male female sorta deal then get welded on the seams. Hard to explain!I hate being bi-polar it's awsomeMy Heroes Have Always Been Cowboys
Reply:Thanks for the information and the link guys!  I had searched, but couldn't find anything based on my search.  The link provides LOTS of information!  What you describe weldermike, might be one of the things sold at a site linked in the thread that DSW made pointed out.Thanks to you both!Doc"I live so far out in the boondocks, my TV runs on Propane."
Reply:Hear ya go bud, had to use one today and thought about ya!  Attached ImagesI hate being bi-polar it's awsomeMy Heroes Have Always Been Cowboys