Originally Posted by
HillRider
Your logic could be applied to any DIY repairs on any device. However, tools are a one-time expense and while they may be expensive for the first job, they are free after that. We have to assume the OP will work on this bike again in the future and on any other bikes he may own thereafter. Having the knowledge and tools already on hand can be a big time and money saver then.
Taking the bike to an LBS is not as "efficient" as you make it sound. Yes, their installation cost is reasonable but their parts cost is usually much higher than mailorder. Finally, the time needed to take the bike to the shop and, most likely, make another trip to pick it up when the work is complete can far exceed the time to do the work yourself, not to even mention gas and car expenses for the trip(s).
Wish I lived where you do! My experience with ordering things online is that shipping costs start at $25 and up and are non-refundable even in the event of a warranty issue. Personally I'll order on-line only as a last resort.
But I'd be interested in your experiences with BB performance. I generally get 10 years out of one so would consider tool purchases on that basis a really loooooooooog term investment!