I need a chain whip tool. Went to order one and there are several options or at least mant different part #'s for what look like the same thing. I have Shimano cassettes to remove, which one do you recommend?

Any chain whip that looks like a chain whip should be fine. I'm not sure which ones you're looking at but they all look about the same to me.

If you have access to a drill press and some scrap aluminum it's not difficult to make your own:

As FastJake said, they're all pretty much the same.

Are you really looking for a chain whip, or are you looking for a cassette removal tool? They do vary, depending on the hub.

I have no complaints with this one from Park:

https://www.amazon.com/Park-Tool-Spro.../dp/B006WLKQ3C

Or you can be like me and get this for $8 less https://www.amazon.com/Avenir-Chain-W...9366891&sr=1-2

Works great for me.

I use a rag.
Use one three foot or more longer, roll it up length wise, hook it on the smallest cog, wrap it around a couple times, ending up on the largest cog, then wrap the the loose end over the tire, hold tight and crank the lockring removal tool. You'll rip it a little, but I've yet to have it fail me.

A chain whip just keeps the cassette from rotating, they're all more or less the same, and can be made from a strip of metal and an old chain.

I use an oll filter wrench that I had in my too box.

I made a couple similar to that-
Home Depot has these nailing straps that are about 37" long & 2"" wide. (Simpson strong-tie)
I cut one in 1/2 and made 2 different ones to see what I liked better. (I didn't have a chain whip in front of me at the time, so I was trying to remember what the finer details were)
Since they have a lot of pre punched holes that happen to fit the pin of bike chain well, you only need minimal tools.

Simpson Strong tie (I used the MST 37)
Hacksaw to whack it in two.
Chain tool
A couple chunks of old chain.


Note- The MST-37's holes are much closer to the edge than the image shown.

It's a length of chain on a stick. Buy the cheapest one. Worst comes to worst, you can attach a fresh chain with a connector.

The handle should be comfortable to facilitate working when you need to apply a large force at the tool's end.

That's what they make rags for!

Maybe you want to have some tools that can be used without having to employ elements of the attire.

i bought the park tools chain whip and it works great. make sure to use a huge wrench for the cassette removal doo hickey. you need to apply equal amounts of force in both directions. watch your knuckles too.....

If you're an occasional cog-swapper, you might want to check out something like this. Put it on, pedal forward and she's loose. Also travels easily so you can access and change drive side spokes on the go.

Just an idea.

Also, if you're feeling burly, just a section of chain and a FIRM grip (vicegrips?) can keep the freehub from ratcheting while you loosen the locknut.

Thanks, when I was looking I saw ones that said for 1/8 or 3/32 but maybe it doesnt matter that much. Up until now I have just used an impact wrench and held onto the cassette with my hand but want to get something for when Im not with my air tools. That pipe wrench method scares me a little, seems like that could damage the teeth if you get a stubborn one.

I got this: https://www.cyclingnews.com/reviews/pedros-vise-whip

Never went back.

I used to use this method, along with various other tools not made for the purpose. They all work, but a proper Park chain whip is a lot easier, and secure.

+1

Other methods can be successful but for a really tight lockring a chainwhip is best. It's also so much easier. Agreed, the pipe wrench idea just sounds like a good way to damage cogs.

+1 on the Zinn/Pedro tool. I love it.

Once you use the Pedros tool. You'll never use a chain whip again. EVER.