When it comes to plumbing projects, having the right tools is essential for efficient and successful repairs or installations. Among the indispensable tools in a plumber’s arsenal is the chain wrench. Designed to provide a secure grip and apply substantial torque, chain wrenches are versatile and useful for a wide range of plumbing applications. In this article, we will explore the five best chain wrenches available on Amazon, discussing their features, applications, and pros and cons.

Our Top Picks for the Best Chain Wrench

RIDGID 31360 Model 5 Chain Wrench

The RIDGID 31360 Model 5 Chain Wrench is a highly regarded tool among professionals. Its rugged construction and precise chain adjustment make it ideal for pipe and fitting work. The wrench features a double jaw design that offers excellent gripping power, allowing you to work with pipes up to 5 inches in diameter. Additionally, its I-beam handle provides a comfortable grip and enables optimal leverage. While this wrench is a bit heavy, it compensates with its exceptional durability and reliability.

Pros:

• Rugged construction for durability
• Double jaw design provides excellent gripping power
• Precise chain adjustment for optimal fit
• Suitable for larger pipes up to 5 inches in diameter

Cons:

• Relatively heavy
• Limited capacity for small pipes

DURATECH 12 Inch Chain Wrench

The DURATECH 12 Inch Chain Wrench stands out for its innovative ratcheting mechanism, which allows for quick and easy adjustments. This tool is perfect for tight spaces where traditional chain wrenches might be challenging to operate. Its compact design and narrow chain enable access to pipes in confined areas. The ratcheting feature ensures a secure grip with minimal effort, making it an excellent choice for both professionals and DIY enthusiasts. However, the wrench’s smaller size limits its capacity, making it suitable for pipes up to 4.5 inches in diameter.

Pros:

• Innovative ratcheting mechanism for quick adjustments
• Compact design allows access in tight spaces
• Easy to operate with minimal effort
• Ideal for small pipe applications

Cons:

• Limited capacity for larger pipes (up to 4.5 inches in diameter)

Crescent 24″ Chain Wrench – CW24

The Crescent 24″ Chain Wrench – CW24 offers a balance between strength and versatility. Its forged and oil-hardened construction guarantees durability and long-term performance. This chain wrench excels in gripping round objects, making it ideal for various plumbing tasks. The bi-material handle provides a comfortable grip and reduces hand fatigue during extended use. With a maximum capacity of 4 inches, this wrench suits medium-sized pipe applications. However, its length may limit access in tight spaces.

Pros:

• Forged and oil-hardened construction for durability
• Grips round objects effectively
• Comfortable bi-material handle reduces hand fatigue
• Suitable for medium-sized pipe applications (up to 4 inches in diameter)

Cons:

• Length may limit access in tight spaces

boeray 9 Inch Heavy Duty Ratcheting Chain Wrench

The boeray 9 Inch Heavy Duty Ratcheting Chain Wrench is a compact and lightweight tool designed for easy handling. Its compact size makes it perfect for smaller plumbing jobs, such as sink installations and faucet repairs. The chain clamp mechanism ensures a tight grip on various pipe diameters, ranging up to 5 inches. The adjustable thumb screw allows for quick adjustments, while the durable chain provides reliable torque. However, the tool’s limited size and capacity may not be suitable for larger pipe applications.

Pros:

• Compact and lightweight for easy handling
• Chain clamp mechanism ensures a tight grip
• Adjustable thumb screw for quick adjustments
• Suitable for smaller plumbing tasks (up to 5 inches in diameter)

Cons:

• Limited capacity for larger pipes
• May not be ideal for heavy-duty applications

MAXPOWER 24 inch Chain Wrench

The MAXPOWER 24 inch Chain Wrench combines affordability with decent performance, making it an excellent option for occasional plumbing projects. This chain wrench features a hardened steel chain that provides a reliable grip on pipes up to 4 inches in diameter. Its lightweight design allows for easy maneuverability, reducing strain during use. However, the tool lacks the durability and precision of higher-end options, which may limit its effectiveness for professional plumbers or heavy-duty applications.

Pros:

• Affordable option for occasional plumbing projects
• Lightweight design for easy maneuverability
• Provides a reliable grip on pipes up to 4 inches in diameter

Cons:

• Not suitable for professional or heavy-duty use

Conclusion

Choosing the right chain wrench is crucial for efficient and successful plumbing projects. The five chain wrenches mentioned above offer a range of features suitable for different needs and budgets. Consider factors such as pipe diameter, work environment, and durability requirements when making your selection. Remember, the best chain wrench for you ultimately depends on the specific plumbing applications you anticipate.

What Should I Look for in a Good Chain Wrench?

When selecting a chain wrench, there are several key factors to consider to ensure you choose a good-quality tool that meets your plumbing needs. Here’s what you should look for:

1. Grip and Jaw Design: A good chain wrench should have a well-designed jaw with sharp teeth or hooks that can securely grip the pipe or fitting without slipping. Look for a wrench with a double jaw or similar mechanism that provides enhanced gripping power.
2. Chain Length and Material: Consider the length of the chain and its material. The chain should be long enough to wrap around the pipe with ease, allowing for proper engagement and torque application. Additionally, opt for a chain made of durable materials such as hardened steel to ensure longevity and reliable performance.
3. Adjustability: The chain wrench should offer easy and precise adjustment to fit different pipe sizes. Look for wrenches with a mechanism that allows for quick and hassle-free chain length adjustments to accommodate various pipe diameters.
4. Handle Comfort and Ergonomics: A comfortable handle is crucial for extended use and reduced hand fatigue. Look for a chain wrench with an ergonomic handle design, preferably with a non-slip grip or cushioning to provide comfort and control during operation.
5. Durability and Construction: Opt for a chain wrench made from high-quality materials that can withstand rigorous use. Look for features like forged construction or oil-hardened components, which indicate durability and longevity.
6. Pipe Diameter Capacity: Consider the maximum pipe diameter the chain wrench can handle. Ensure it is suitable for your specific plumbing needs, whether you primarily work with smaller pipes or larger industrial-sized pipes.
7. Application Versatility: Some chain wrenches are designed for specific applications, such as gripping round objects or accessing tight spaces. Assess your typical plumbing tasks and choose a wrench that best suits your specific needs.
8. Brand Reputation and Customer Reviews: Research the reputation of the brand and read customer reviews to gain insights into the wrench’s performance, reliability, and customer satisfaction. This can help you gauge the quality and effectiveness of the tool.
9. Budget: Consider your budget and find a balance between quality and affordability. While it’s important to invest in a durable and reliable chain wrench, you can find options that meet your requirements without breaking the bank.

By considering these factors, you can make an informed decision and select a chain wrench that is well-suited to your plumbing projects and provides reliable performance over time.

Exploring the Versatile Applications of a Chain Wrench in Plumbing

1. Pipe Installation and Removal: One of the primary applications of a chain wrench is in the installation and removal of pipes. Whether you’re working with metal or plastic pipes, the chain wrench provides a strong and secure grip, allowing you to tighten or loosen pipe connections effectively. The chain wraps around the pipe, and as you apply force, the wrench’s jaws grip the pipe tightly, enabling you to twist or rotate it as needed.
2. Faucet and Sink Repair: Chain wrenches prove invaluable when repairing faucets and sinks. When dealing with stuck or tightly sealed faucet components, such as nuts or fittings, a chain wrench can provide the necessary torque to loosen them. The chain wraps around the stubborn component, and with a firm grip, the wrench allows you to exert rotational force without damaging the surfaces.
3. Strainer and Showerhead Removal: Strainers and showerheads can often become tightly secured due to mineral deposits or corrosion. In such cases, a chain wrench can be a handy tool for removal. By encircling the strainer or showerhead with the chain and applying torque, the wrench provides a strong grip, making it easier to loosen and remove these components without causing damage.
4. Pipe Fitting and Assembly: Chain wrenches excel in pipe fitting and assembly tasks. When connecting pipes and fittings, the wrench ensures a tight and secure joint. The chain wraps around the fitting or pipe, and as you tighten the chain, the wrench’s jaws hold the component firmly, allowing you to twist or rotate it until the desired connection is achieved. This ensures leak-free and durable pipe assemblies.
5. Round Object Gripping: In addition to pipes, chain wrenches are adept at gripping various round objects. Whether you need to secure a cylindrical object for repair or assembly purposes, a chain wrench can provide a reliable grip. This versatility makes it useful in applications such as working with rounded valve stems, plumbing fixtures, or even removing stubborn oil filters.
6. Limited Access Areas: Chain wrenches with a compact design, such as ratcheting chain wrenches, are particularly useful in limited access areas. When space constraints make it challenging to operate traditional wrenches, the slim profile and flexibility of a chain wrench allow you to navigate tight spots with relative ease. This makes it possible to work on pipes or fittings in confined spaces without compromising functionality.

Step-by-step guide on how to use a chain wrench effectively

Step 1: Familiarize Yourself with the Chain Wrench: 

Take a moment to examine the different parts of the chain wrench. It typically consists of a chain, a handle, and jaws. Ensure the wrench is clean and in good working condition before use.

Step 2: Determine the Proper Chain Length: 

Assess the size of the pipe or object you need to work on. Position the chain around the object and adjust its length to fit snugly. The chain should encircle the object completely without any slack.

Step 3: Secure the Chain: 

Once you have determined the appropriate chain length, hold one end of the chain in one hand and the other end in the opposite hand. Wrap the chain around the pipe or object, aligning the jaws with the desired grip location.

Step 4: Insert the Chain into the Jaws: 

With the chain wrapped around the pipe or object, insert the end of the chain into the jaws of the wrench. Ensure that the chain is properly engaged in the jaws and positioned securely.

Step 5: Position the Chain Wrench: 

Hold the chain wrench handle with a firm grip, ensuring your hand is positioned comfortably on the handle for better control. Position yourself in a stable stance, allowing for proper leverage during operation.

Step 6: Apply Pressure: 

To tighten or loosen the pipe or object, exert pressure on the chain wrench handle in the desired direction. Apply force gradually and evenly to avoid sudden movements or slips. The jaws of the chain wrench will grip the pipe or object tightly as you apply pressure.

Step 7: Rotate or Twist: 

Once you have a firm grip and applied sufficient pressure, use the chain wrench to rotate or twist the pipe or object in the required direction. The chain and jaws of the wrench should hold the pipe or object securely, allowing you to manipulate it as needed.

Step 8: Adjust as Necessary: 

If you encounter resistance or need to reposition the chain wrench during the operation, release the pressure and adjust the chain length or reposition the chain and jaws accordingly. Make sure the chain remains tight and properly engaged before applying pressure again.

Step 9: Complete the Task: 

Continue rotating or twisting the pipe or object until the desired outcome is achieved. Whether it’s tightening or loosening a fitting, removing a component, or assembling pipes, ensure you complete the task thoroughly and securely.

Step 10: Release the Chain: 

Once you have completed the task, release the pressure on the chain wrench handle and carefully remove the chain from the pipe or object. Store the chain wrench in a safe and appropriate location for future use.

Remember to always follow safety precautions, wear appropriate protective gear, and use the chain wrench within its specified capacity to ensure safe and effective operation.

By following these step-by-step instructions, you can effectively use a chain wrench to tackle various plumbing tasks with confidence and precision.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where is a chain wrench most likely to be used?

1. Pipe Installation and Removal: Chain wrenches are essential tools for installing and removing pipes. They provide a secure grip on pipes of various materials, such as metal or plastic, making it easier to tighten or loosen pipe connections. Whether it’s connecting or disconnecting threaded pipes or fittings, a chain wrench is often the go-to tool for plumbers.
2. Faucet and Sink Repair: When working on faucet repairs or sink installations, chain wrenches can be used to loosen and tighten fittings securely. They allow plumbers to exert the necessary torque to remove stubborn nuts or fittings without damaging the surfaces. Chain wrenches provide a reliable grip when working with faucet components, ensuring successful repair or replacement.
3. Strainer and Showerhead Removal: Chain wrenches come in handy when removing strainers or showerheads that have become tightly secured due to mineral deposits or corrosion. The chain wraps around the strainer or showerhead, providing a strong grip for easy removal without causing damage.
4. Pipe Fitting and Assembly: Chain wrenches are useful for pipe fitting and assembly tasks. They allow plumbers to hold pipes and fittings securely while making connections. By gripping the pipe or fitting with a chain wrench, plumbers can tighten or loosen components as needed to ensure leak-free and properly aligned pipe assemblies.
5. Rounded Valve Stems and Plumbing Fixtures: Chain wrenches find application in gripping rounded valve stems, plumbing fixtures, and other rounded objects commonly found in plumbing systems. They provide a reliable grip, allowing plumbers to tighten or loosen these components as required during repairs or installations.

In summary, chain wrenches are frequently used in plumbing for pipe installation and removal, faucet and sink repair, strainer and showerhead removal, pipe fitting and assembly, and working with rounded valve stems and plumbing fixtures. Their ability to provide a secure grip on various plumbing components makes them invaluable tools for plumbers in a range of plumbing applications.

What is the best way to loosen a pipe?

When it comes to loosening pipes, the best tool to use depends on the specific situation and the type of pipe you’re working with. Here are some commonly used tools for loosening pipes:

1. Pipe Wrench: Pipe wrenches are specifically designed for gripping and turning pipes. They have adjustable jaws that provide a strong grip on the pipe. Pipe wrenches come in various sizes to accommodate different pipe diameters. They are suitable for metal pipes and can generate significant torque to loosen stubborn fittings.
2. Adjustable Wrench: An adjustable wrench, also known as a crescent wrench, is a versatile tool that can be used to loosen different types of nuts and fittings. It has an adjustable jaw, allowing it to fit different sizes of fittings. While adjustable wrenches are not as specialized as pipe wrenches, they can still be effective for loosening pipes, especially in smaller or tight spaces.
3. Slip-Joint Pliers: Slip-joint pliers have a adjustable pivot point that allows you to change the jaw opening. They can be used to grip and turn pipe fittings, although they may not provide as secure a grip as dedicated pipe wrenches. Slip-joint pliers are particularly useful for working with smaller pipes or in confined spaces.
4. Locking Pliers (Vise-Grip): Locking pliers, often referred to by the brand name Vise-Grip, have an adjustable jaw that can be locked in place to securely grip the pipe or fitting. They provide a strong and reliable grip, making them suitable for loosening stubborn pipes or fittings. Locking pliers are versatile tools that can be used in various applications beyond plumbing.
5. Pipe and Chain Wrench: As mentioned earlier, chain wrenches are excellent for gripping pipes, particularly in situations where a pipe wrench may not fit or provide sufficient leverage. Pipe and chain wrenches feature a chain that wraps around the pipe, allowing for a secure grip and effective torque application. They are particularly useful when dealing with larger pipes or rounded objects.

The best tool for loosening a pipe ultimately depends on factors such as the pipe material, size, accessibility, and the level of resistance. It’s advisable to have a selection of tools available to handle different scenarios and to choose the tool that best suits the specific plumbing task at hand.

Is it better to push or pull a wrench?

When using a wrench, whether it’s better to push or pull depends on the specific situation and the type of wrench you are using. Here are some general guidelines:

1. Pushing: Pushing refers to applying force in the same direction as the handle of the wrench. Pushing is typically recommended when you have a better grip and leverage while pushing in that direction. It allows you to exert force more directly and efficiently, especially when using a wrench with a longer handle. Pushing is often the preferred method when you have ample space and a clear path to push the wrench.
2. Pulling: Pulling refers to applying force in the opposite direction of the handle of the wrench. Pulling is generally recommended when you have limited space or obstacles preventing you from pushing the wrench effectively. In such cases, pulling allows you to work with restricted movement and tight areas where pushing the wrench may not be feasible. Wrenches with shorter handles or ratcheting mechanisms are often more suitable for pulling motions.

It’s important to note that the design of the wrench, the specific task you’re performing, and your personal preference can influence whether pushing or pulling is more effective. Ultimately, it’s a matter of finding the most comfortable and efficient method for the specific situation you’re working in.

Additionally, consider the type of wrench you’re using. For example, pipe wrenches and adjustable wrenches are commonly pushed in the direction of the handle, while locking pliers or vise-grips can be used for both pushing and pulling actions.

In summary, there is no definitive answer as to whether it’s better to push or pull a wrench. The choice between pushing and pulling depends on the circumstances, accessibility, and the design of the wrench being used. Adapt your approach based on the task at hand and use the method that allows you to apply force most effectively and comfortably.