[DonRotolo]

apalrd, imagine tool "B", but with pliers handles instead of a turn knob, that's what I'm wondering about.
Zip ties would be fine too, but I just hate to waste zip ties...

Yarden, now I understand the problem. One possible solution: Train a student on Master Links. Have them remove and install a master link several hundred times, in increasingly difficult positions, always with tools instead of fingers. I am thinking that with a lot of practice someone could get quite good at it.

Inserting the master link itself seems easy enough, if the chain is tight enough.
Then there is the cover plate - not difficult, but you cannot allow it to fall off.
Then, the lock clip. Practice that move a few hundred times and you'll get good at it.

Maybe a job for a freshman?