Chain splitter

[taxidriver50005]

Stupid newbie question... Do I need a special chain splitter fit 12 speed chains as all the ones I look at only state up to 10 speed. ?

 

[Philly G]

I've got this multi tool which will split 12sp chains:HEXUS® II | Topeak
Or something like this: Park Tool CT-3.3 Chain Breaker To Suit 5-12spd
Don't know what the difference is on chain breakers only rated for up to 10sp, perhaps the gauge of the pin driver is too thick ? @Gary should know.
The only time I ever break chains is when sizing up a new chain, I suppose it would be handy to have on a multi tool for emergency trailside repairs as well, thankfully I've never needed it. If you don't already have, I recommend you also get some quick link pliers like these, extremely useful: BBB BTL-77 LinkFix Chain Link Tool

 

[Gary]

12 speed chain link pins and rollers remain the same diameter. it's only the chain width that's narrower (outer diameter)
Some chain tools have prongs or channels to hold the chain plates in place or to allow you to losen link plates while driving the pin in/out. This is the main reason some older chaintools won't work with 11 or 12 speed chains. in reality most chaintools will split an 11 or 12 speed chain.
The other job a chaintool does is join chains by driving the pin through the link but 12 speed chains are all designed to work with quick links so you shouldn't ever need to rejoin a 12 speed chain with a chaintool. infact, you'd struggle to re-join an 11 or 12 speed chain that way and not leave it weak at the join.
If you're going to carry quicklinks on rides you'll also need a chaintool to remove the broken portion of chain before fitting a new quicklink. Quicklink pliers are also advisable but there are various bodges to open and close a quicklink on the trail without the correct tool.

 

[taxidriver50005]

12 speed chain link pins and rollers remain the same diameter. it's only the chain width that's narrower (outer diameter)
Some chain tools have prongs or channels to hold the chain plates in place or to allow you to losen link plates while driving the pin in/out. This is the main reason some older chaintools won't work with 11 or 12 speed chains. in reality most chaintools will split an 11 or 12 speed chain.
The other job a chaintool does is join chains by driving the pin through the link but 12 speed chains are all designed to work with quick links so you shouldn't ever need to rejoin a 12 speed chain with a chaintool. infact, you'd struggle to re-join an 11 or 12 speed chain that way and not leave it weak at the join.
If you're going to carry quicklinks on rides you'll also need a chaintool to remove the broken portion of chain before fitting a new quicklink. Quicklink pliers are also advisable but there are various bodges to open and close a quicklink on the trail without the correct tool.

Cheers Gary that's the reason for chain tool... Just wanted right tool for job

 

[steve_sordy]

I have had my Hexus II multi-tool for about 20 years, before I suspect 11 & 12-speed chains existed. The chain tool on it still split them though. I have only ever used it to join links on chains below 10-speed as I converted to quick links while still on 9-speed.

 

[CjP]

Park tool Ct6.3, sits in my back pack and is super compact and works better than most.