The installation torque recommendation for almost all square taper cranks is in the 30 to 35 lb-ft range which is WAY more than you'd expect and more than nearly anyone can apply with a standard L-shaped allen wrench. Turbineblade is either very strong or has been lucky.
I turn the bike upside down, then
lean on the end of the allen key handle while also leaning on the opposite crank arm for leverage.
Over-tightening is a bigger thing to worry about actually.
I've used a torque wrench with a longer handle with the bike in a repair stand -- it's probably more accurate that way. Never done it with my own bikes, just shop bikes. No argument.
To install the bottom bracket, I use a breaker bar...well, not on the non-drive crappy plastic retainers, just tighten those pretty snug. I totally understand the potential for someone inexperienced to strip or trash parts this way. At the same time I personally think that there's *some value in learning how to tighten parts without a torque wrench, that's all.
Can of worms: dry or grease on axle?
