so i just bought a specialized allez roadbike and took the two chainrings off the cranks to clean them. my question is what tool can i use to hold the nuts ( as they are slotted on either side) as i torque the bolts? if you need to see a pic i can take one to show what nuts i'm talking about!

https://harriscyclery.net/itemdetails.cfm?ID=2378

The other end fits the Shimano dust caps with two holes.

That tool linked above is made for it, but I haven't gotten the hang of using it and I just use a giant screwdriver.

thanks dirtdrop think i'll have to pick one of those up! do most cycling shops carry those?

I have not seen them in shops for sale and I have a lot of shops around me - about ten. They can of crouse order it for you.

I finally bought one of those tools, as linked by Dirtdrop but before that I used to use a large flathead screwdriver and needlenose pliers to hold the nut down...

Jay

Sometimes you can get away without the tool if you leave the nut part of the charing bolt ungreased - and also where it contacts inside the chainring.

Friction usually keeps it from turning much.

I used to take the opposite approach. I used a smallish screwdriver in half of the chainring nut slot. It really isn't very hard to get those to hold still while you tighten the allen bolt.

If the threads are clean and smooth (no noticable resistance when screwing them in by hand) a little dab of grease will decrease the friction to less than the friction between the chainring and the nut - and you can torque it together as if there was a wrench holding the nut.

totally yes-- and if you cant afford the tool ( which I suggest you do buy) use a small needle nose...
do not use aluminum ring bolts--- steel is real.

Did that even come up here? Anyways, I agree. I broke a few and it is not pleasant, especially on mtbs.