Types of Shimano Di2 Tools and Their Compatibility

What Is a Shimano Di2 Tool?

To assemble components using Shimano’s electronic shifting system, Di2, you’ll need a dedicated tool called a plug tool (plug insertion/removal tool). This tool is essential for connecting Di2 components via electric wires.

Although it’s technically possible to connect the cables without a plug tool, doing so risks poor connections that can be affected by road vibrations or allow water intrusion during wet rides—potentially leading to malfunction. Therefore, this tool is a must-have when working with Di2 parts.

Shimano’s Di2 system connects each component using dedicated cables called electric wires. These cables come with three types of ports/connectors, and each type requires its own specific plug tool.

For more on Shimano electric wire compatibility, check out the article below:

Shimano Di2 Wire Types and Compatibility

Overview of Shimano Di2 electric wire types and their compatibility with Di2 components.

Types of Shimano Di2 Tools

TL-EW300

The TL-EW300 is a Di2 tool designed specifically for SD300 ports and connectors, such as those used with the new 12-speed Di2 road systems and electric wires like the EW-SD300.

Because SD300 ports are smaller than the previous SD50 standard, this tool is required for proper connection.

It closely resembles the TL-EW02 mentioned below, so be careful not to purchase the wrong model—always double-check the part number when buying.

TL-EW02

For a long time, the TL-EW02 was the go-to Shimano Di2 tool. It’s made for SD50 ports and connectors, such as those used with electric wires like the EW-SD50, which are found in Shimano’s 11-speed Di2 systems.

Note that this tool is not compatible with the newer SD300 or the older DURA-ACE Di2 7970 system.

One advantage is that it’s widely available, including second-hand, but it cannot be used with the latest 12-speed Di2, so use caution when sourcing tools.

TL-EW01

The TL-EW01 is a Di2 tool specifically designed for the original DURA-ACE Di2 7970 series.

Although the part number is similar to the TL-EW02, they are entirely different tools. As shown in the header image of this article (center: TL-EW02, right: TL-EW01), the shapes are distinct.

Importantly, the TL-EW01 is not compatible with SD50 ports, which the TL-EW02 supports, nor is it compatible with the newer SD300 ports.

Compatibility of Shimano Di2 Tools

Here’s a summary of the compatibility between Shimano’s dedicated Di2 tools and the various port/connectors we’ve covered so far:

Pay special attention to the TL-EW02 and TL-EW01. While their model numbers differ by only a digit, they are not interchangeable. Mistakenly buying a TL-EW01 means ending up with a tool that’s compatible only with the now-rare Di2 7970 system, for which even used parts are hard to come by.

As for the TL-EW300, it’s easier to identify since it clearly supports SD300 electric wires, which are used in Shimano’s latest Di2 systems.