Bicycle Mechanics - Park CT-3 vs. CT-4 chain tool?

Anybody know what the difference is? The Park web site says the CT-4 is "new" and is "specially designed to work with the tight tolerances and narrow profile of 10 speed chains and most high quality derailleur chains." Is there any issue using the CT-3 on 10-speeds? I don't see many vendors carrying the CT-4.

I'm looking for a good all-around shop tool for chain breaking on a variety of 7- through 10-speed road and mountain bikes. I've been using a CT-5 mini-tool which has worked, but the last couple times, it felt like it was going to break before the pin would let loose on an SRAM chain and I want something more substantial for shop use.

Thanks,

- Mark

I've used the CT-3 successfully to shorten Wippermann 10-speed chains so it certainly works on those and I expect it will work on Shimano and Campy chains too.

I don't know what the differences between the CT-3 and -4 are but if I were buying new, I'd get the latest version. You might as well.

I use the CT-3 on just about every job, with fine results.
I also have a CT-7, which I probably haven't used for it's intended use "1/8 to 3/16 chain only" but have used when it was the one closer to my hand.

Anybody own/use the CT-4? I'm not even sure it's available and it appears to be quite a bit more expensive ($50 vs. $30).

http://www.parktool.com/products/detail.asp?cat=5&item=CT%2D4

- Mark

I just looked at the Park Tool link to the CT-4. It's obviously more "elegant" than the CT-3 having a padded handle, etc. but, ironically, it is specifically stated as NOT compatible with Wippermann chains! I guess I'll continue to use my CT-3.

...but, ironically, it is specifically stated as NOT compatible with Wippermann chains!

I'm not up on the nuances of different brand chains.... what's different about a Wippermann chain from a Shimano or SRAM?

- Mark

Anybody own/use the CT-4? I'm not even sure it's available and it appears to be quite a bit more expensive ($50 vs. $30).

http://www.parktool.com/products/detail.asp?cat=5&item=CT%2D4

- Mark

to fancy for me....

Anybody own/use the CT-4? I'm not even sure it's available and it appears to be quite a bit more expensive ($50 vs. $30).

http://www.parktool.com/products/detail.asp?cat=5&item=CT%2D4

- Mark


Where did you get a price for the CT-4? Who's selling it?

Where did you get a price for the CT-4? Who's selling it?

A couple vendors list it, but not many. For example,

http://smartbikeparts.com/search_details.php?itm=TL8291&PHPSESSID=a0b1602beed14cc6

- Mark

Tonight I found a local shop willing to order the CT-4 for $67!!! I ordered a CT-3 from LIckton for aroudn $27! Plus a superlink and a Chorus 10 speed ultranarrow for $85 total.

Road Fan