Originally Posted by
Andrew R Stewart
If you are doing paid work then a professional bearing setting tool can pay for it's self in good time. If you just like nice tools then why ask here, get it. Do realize that with any tool there are limitations and mods that future components will challenge you with.
I used Bill's approach for a few decades in the shops I worked. But as cartridge bearings began to take over the high end of components I have invested in specific press tools more and more. Too bad I'm aging out of retail service and costs won't be covered for some of them... Andy
I usually have nothing to add, or "correct" in any of your posts. Here, while I generally agree, just a note, more of a philosophical one:
This is just my opinion/point of view - not claiming it to be "right" - everyone should choose and decide for and by themselves.
Not everything is about money. For me - fixing stuff on my own has always been a preferred way. I inherited a lot of tools from my father, and, if my son shows any interest in fixing stuff - he'll probably get even more tools - and a garage.
Also, I've lived most of my life in economic crisis, scarcity. However, one thing I've never regretted was getting good quality (more expensive) tools. All for DIY tools (both out of interest, and necessity), but if a tool is not good enough, I'd always keep looking for a (more) proper tool. With improper tools, there's always a certain amount of anxiety when doing the work: "will it hold, or slip, will it damage the part(s)" - and similar. With good quality tools, even before you start working, you usually have that nice feeling it will all work as intended and the whole process is more "Zen-like" to put it that way. This comes from a guy capable and experienced in fixing most stuff with the standard "duc tape & WD40" - mostly for not having the means to do otherwise.
So I'd say: if buying a good tool doesn't prevent you from paying the bills, taxes, getting shoes without holes, or even from going to a vacation - definitely go for it. It is worth it, in more than one way.
ParkTool is not available where I live, but
Unior Headset press - 1680/4 is quite good, well made, with strong tool steel, and good ergonomy. HHP-2 looks similarly enough and if it's easily available and doesn't cost (a lot) more, I suppose it's also fine (but haven't used it to confirm).