Abstract: A preferred embodiment of the invention described herein includes a method and apparatus for providing a seal between at least the outer sidebar and pin bushing of a chain link assembly. The apparatus includes a seal having an outer collar and an inner resilient ring, the outer collar preferably having a mating ridge and the resilient ring being molded onto the collar. This seal also includes outer ribs for providing a sealed contact against the outer sidebar, and may include inner ribs. The seal is part of a chain link assembly positioned between the outer and inner sidebars and surrounding a pin bushing end. A fluid (e.g., grease) may be advantageously placed between the ribs, lubricating the rib—sidebar interface and thereby reducing wear of the ribs.

Abstract: A chain link having a pair of spaced sidebars provided with a set of aligned bores and a round pin positioned within so as to extend through the aligned bores utilizes sidebars and a pin which cooperate in a manner which positively secures the pin in position within the bores and which accommodates a removal of the pin from the bores in a manner which prevents damage to the link components. The pin has a head on one end and an annular rib on its other end, and the sidewall of one of the aligned bores possesses a diameter which tapers in size from one end of the bore to the other end thereof and is adapted to flex outwardly to accommodate the passage of the annular rib therethrough.