T&T: Connecting chain links - cruising in Croatia

[Milt Baker]

I would like to connect two lengths of 3/8-inch HT chain in a manner that will
allow the connection to use the chain wheel (gypsy) on the Maxwell 3500
windlass aboard Bluewater, but I'm not aware of a connector that will both (1)
provide the full rated strength of the chain and (2) work well on the chain
wheel.  Am I missing something obvious?

If there's no easy answer, Plan B will be to use a couple of 3/8-inch
galvanized shackles with the knowledge that I'll have to slowly work the
connection point around the chain wheel--not a big deal, but I'd sure like a
more elegant solution.

Any ideas?

Many thanks,

--Milt Baker, Nordhavn 47 Bluewater, Korcula, Crotia

P.S.  Croatia has been the gem of Bluewater's summer cruising in the
Mediterranean.  No place has it all, but Croatia comes close: deep clear water
(we could see the bottom yesterday in 50 feet) that's plenty warm for
swimming, daytime highs in the 80s and night time lows in the low 70s with low
humidity, tall mountains and granite hills spilling down to deep water a few
yards offshore, hundreds of offshore islands making thousands of cozy
anchorages, friendly people nearly all of whom speak good English, and an
excellent network of government-run marinas that always seem to have space for
us (as long as we arrive around noon) with no advance reservations.  The
scenery is like something out of Hollywood, with quaint walled cities,
brick-colored roofs and sand-colored buildings, all sprinkled amongst the
evergreens.  The restaurants and selection of food in the local markets is not
up to the high quality we found in Italy and good seafood is expensive, but
otherwise provisioning is very good--perfectly satisfactory, and meals ashore
are always a pleasure.  We've been here six weeks and must leave within the
next few days, but we'll look back on Croatia as one spectacular cruising
venue.  Whoda thunk it?

Lots of charter options available, but most of them sailing yachts.  Google
croatia + yacht + charter if you'd like more info.