Tools

[TGR]

Evenin' all,

I was having a look at tool kits on Amazon and i was wondering if anyone could recommend a good set. Recently i have bought a BB puller, Shimano BB wrench and a few other bits and pieces. I already have spanners of all sizes, socket sets, screwdrivers of almost all sizes and, my favourites, HAMMERS! Do i need anything more?

Also, could anyone provide me with some info about removing cassettes and freewheels. What tools would i need? Regarding freewheels, does each freewheel require a specific removal tool?

Thanks to everyone

 

[malt]

I always used TengTools for the general stuff, then Park Tools form most of the specialist bits.

Cassette removal would require the lock ring tool and a chain whip, a vice comes in handy too.

As for freewheels, most use the Shimano pattern but some older ones may differ... I assume you mean screw on freewheels?

 

[TGR]

I think one of the freewheels is Suntour and the other Shimano - different tools required?

I should clarify my original question - apart from chain whip is there anything else i might need. I like the idea of having everything in a set but if i have everything i need, is there any point?

I plan to get a torque wrench in B+Q - any advice on that?

Is a headset press something i should look for or just use LBS?

 

[malt]

I may get shot down for this, but is my 12 years as a cycle mechanic i never used a torque wrench... i must add that i never had any torque related problems either.

The Suntour remover is different, smaller splines if i remember correctly. Again there will be different ones for Campag and the lesser found Helicomatic freewheels

In addition to the whip, you'll need the cassette lock ring tool, Shimano or Park will do.

You'll build up your tools as time passes, and you come across things you need that you don't have, you'll also see your range of tools grow as technology evolves too.

 

[TGR]

I have a helicomatic removal tool - the one with the bottle opener - very handy tool and not for freewheels!

My point is, is there a point to buying a set or just by bit by bit.

Thanks for your advice so far

 

[malt]

Sorry, i get you now....must be the wine!!

Just get it bit by bit as there will likely be tools you'll never use. I only got tools as i needed them, but doing it for a living required me to have a hell of a lot of tools.

 

[TGR]

Thanks for that. I know it makes sense but when i go to do something and discover i need a specific tool the job gets delayed until the tool is sourced and ordered and delivered. I need more patience!

I suppose that as time goes on this problem will occur less frequently as i gather up the tools.


Thanks again.

What about the need for the headset press - buy one or LBS?

 

[malt]

Certainly buy a headset press and a headset cup removal tool.

And a good wheel truing stand. A set of taps for various threads (cranks, mech hanger, eyelets etc.

Depends how mad you want to go... Bottom bracket threading tool and so on.

 

[TGR]

The balance is cost with frequency of use. A headset reamer is £400 and might only be used once or twice. If my LBS had one i would expect to pay maybe £20 for them to use it - therefore LBS job!

I haven't priced the headset press yet but i guess it will be cheaper and may get more use therefore it MIGHT be a useful addition to my toolbox.

Thanks

 

[malt]

It's the price of the tools that keeps the LBS in business lol