There are some jobs to do on a bike that you really need a specific tool for, and basically there's no substitute for it. In this thread, I'm not so interested in those tools, but in tools that aren't actually necessary. You can do it another way, but this tool makes it soooo much better.
I was inspired to start this thread because I recently discovered the bead jack. Do you need a bead jack to change a tire? Of course not. But man, has the bead jack ever changed my life. Tire replacement that used to involve all manner of sweating and cursing is now no big deal. I wish I'd gotten one of these years ago. Cheap, too. I think I got mine for $12.
Two stories, not directly related to cycling but I think the principles apply:
When I was about 20 I needed a metric flare nut wrench to replace a brake hose on my Renault. The usual sources had nothing like that so I had to buy one from Snap-On ($5.50 then, more like $50 now). It fit so perfectly, felt so right, and looked so good that when I put it in my tool box all the random Craftsman tools just had to go. Now, 50 years later, it's as good as new and living in a roll cab full of similar stuff.
When I was about 50 I did a lot of rowing. When we took the shells to a regatta on a trailer we had to remove the riggers. That required a 7/16" wrench which never seemed to show up at trailer loading time. So I got a 2" long 7/16" torque adapter which is always with me since it's also my key ring. Then not long after 9-11 some TSA clerk in DC told me I couldn't take it on the plane because it was a tool. Like I was going to walk out on the wing and remove an engine or something. Fortunately I was able to mail it home so it's still in my pocket.
The Third Hand Brake tool. I used to curse a lot when adjusting brakes. Now if I don't get it right I just grab the cable, inch it in a bit and retighten. Quick link pliers. I was staring at a tool wall one day and asked what those things were and when the shop guys demoed them, my mind was blown. I would certainly not be a chain waxer without them.
Honorable mentions: Derailleur hanger alignment tool Spoke tensionometer (I build my own wheels)
Wife disclaimer: All of my tools are necessary and I couldn't possibly do without any of them.
Ok, now that that's out of the way. I built my first BMX out of salvaged parts in 6th grade and really haven't stopped; though, I have been riding Mountain bikes for over 25 years (Only about 6 months on gravel) and over that time have always worked on my own bikes. As a result, I have amassed a solid tool collection.
My air compressor has been a godsend. I used to seat tubeless tires with a hand pump or CO2. It was annoying, so I bought a Harbor Freight $125 compressor and it is awesome.
I also love my Hayes Feeler gauge for adjusting disc brakes. I managed just fine for years without it, but bought it on a whim a couple years back to get to the free shipping threshold and wow what a difference it makes!
I also have a stan's valve core remover, bought on impulse, that I also love. I mean, the little plastic thingy works just fine but this tool is great.
The Woolfstooth derailleur hanger adjustment tool is awesome.
I also have a cigar-cutter style brake hose cutter that I use like once every 2-3 years that I love.
A fork seal driver, star nut setter, crown race setter all make life really easy, as well.
A DU bushing remover turns a frustrating job into butter.
I've been trying to buy a crown race remover, but can't find one in stock that will fit my mountain bike's fork.
All of these tools get pretty limited use, and I can and have done just fine without them, but having the right tool for the job is so satisfying.
I've wanted that style of tensiometer, but the prices are just too high. I hadn't thought of building one, but I have the tools to do it now. Are there dimensions and/or plans online anywhere?
bnystrom wrote:Are there dimensions and/or plans online anywhere?
The parts to print one are here. At the very bottom of the list of STL files is a PDF of the original design. (There are a few dimensions missing). The only thing I printed was the handle and I had to modify the base plate because the indicator I used has 1/2” travel - too much for this application, but the indicator was free.
I also love my Hayes Feeler gauge for adjusting disc brakes. I managed just fine for years without it, but bought it on a whim a couple years back to get to the free shipping threshold and wow what a difference it makes!
bnystrom wrote:Thanks for that link. There should be enough information there for me to machine the parts I need.
There’s nothing to generate the side angles on the baseplate nor info about the radii they run tangent tp. Granted, you can pull numbers out of the air and it won’t matter.
Hi, what is the recommended error of measurement that the gauge meter should have? I did not find this information in Jobst Brand book. I am looking to build one for myself. I have seen that 0.01 mm digits is good, but for some of them the error is 0.02 mm. Is it enough?
