campy 10 speed chain/chain tool

[Beane]

Does anyone have campy 10-speed? My new bike does and I have read conflicting information about whether or not a special tool is needed to install/remove the chain. Apparently the new 10 speeds do not require the special tool that campy chains used to require, but might still be slightly different from shimano. So wondering if anyone has experience and can advise as to whether a new tool purchase will be necessary.

I'm going to have my new favorite LBS install the chain for the first time, but wondering if DH (who is a decent but not great mechanic-- don't tell him i said that or he might stop working for free.... ) will be able to deal with the chain regularly.

[mimitabby]

I have campy 10 speed and a campy chain. My LBS put a master link in the chain when they installed it.
I know that doesn't answer your question, but perhaps it will help.

[Triskeliongirl]

I have the park tools CT-3 chain tool. It works fine on my shimano 9spd chains as well as on a freinds campy 10spd chain. I noticed park tools now sells the CT-4 specifically for 10 spd chains, but not sure how well it would work on 9spd ones. Why on earth would you pay someone to install a chain? Its one of the easiest things you can do yourself, with the right tool. I lack the mechanical strength to use the portable chain tools, but its easy with the CT-3.

p.s. according to sheldon brown the CT-3 tool also works on 7,8,9,10 speed chains, so its very versatile. Come to think of it, I have used it to fix 7 and 8 speed chains on my kids bikes.

From Sheldon Brown/Harris Cyclery Site:

TL7248 Park CT-3 Shop Tool $29.95

The ultimate. Because of the tremendous force needed to remove chain pins, CT-3 is now made from investment cast tool steel. Along with superior strength and durability, the CT-3 features a handy "loosening shelf" to remedy stiff links after reassembly. The fine thread and comfortable size enable easy removal of even the toughest chain pins. Like all Park Tool Chain Tools, it's easy to use and built to last.
Works great on 7-, 8-, 9- and 10-speed chains.

[boy in a kilt]

In theory, the answer is yes, you do need a specific tool.

But, I'll agree with mimi and say put the master link in.

A chain tool should only be an implement of last resort. When you need to remove your chain, it's simpler for you and easier on your chain if you can break the chain at the master link. Also, keep a couple in your emergency supplies. They are an excellent way to fix a broken chain.

[Beane]

OK, so the chain came with the master link but I didn't realize/find it until after the chain was installed. So now what? Do we install that master link the next time the chain is open for maintenance?

...getting quite excited. the bike is almost ready.. I am waiting on some handlebars but took it for a spin using a stem/handlebars we already had and it's so much lighter than my old bike! very smooth too!

[DirtDiva]

You "open" and "close" the chain at the master link - it's reusable.