new chain-master link question

No doubt the terminology is wrong, but when installing a master link is it normal to have difficulty getting the outer side piece of the link to slide all the way on the "pegs"? I'm having a hard time getting the side piece to slide on far enough to expose the slots for the outer retaining pin to slide into. It's almost like the "pegs" aren't long enough. Any hints?

Thanks

Oh yeah, especially if it's an o-ring chain
I generally use vise grips, pliers, whatevers handy, to try and squeeze that sucker together

It is an O ring chain. I'm getting there. I got the pins through pretty good, but messed around and broke the retaining clip trying to get it to slide on, so that's it for tonight. I scanned the archives and see this is not unusual so I'll keep at it. Thanks.

Some of the sideplates are very snug fitting. I would suggest trying to fit the side plate without the O rings initially just to see if it goes on properly. I know with the latest batch of RK chain I've had to open up the holes very slightly with a small round file to get the side plate to even go on completely. I've also found some of the rivet link side plates fit better - so if you have both a rivet and clip link, try the side plate from the rivet link.

Thanks Jeff,

I actually did have to file them out just a bit to get the side plate on all the way. I was about done when I broke the clip trying to slide it on. I'll pick one up somewhere tomorrow.